Therefore we must give the more earnest heed

.... to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. 2 For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, 3 how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation (Hebrews 2:1-3).  The “Therefore” in the admonition of verse 1 connect to (1:1, 2a), where we read “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son.” This Son is the one through whom He made the Worlds, He is brightness of His glory, the express image of His person. He  upholds all things by the word of His power, the same one who  had by Himself purged our sins (1:2b, 3).

This same Jesus is the One to whose words we must give more earnest heed. As if the credential of the one who speaks (God Himself 1:8,9) is not enough, the author points out that words given in previous times proved steadfast. That is just rewards (i.e. punishments) followed transgressions and disobedience. So then if these previous words proved steadfast, how much more shall the Words of Christ prove steadfast?

Relevant to the debate as to whether one can lose one's salvation or not, the writer to the Hebrews leaves us in no doubt that we can drift away. In their zeal to emphasize that salvation is not of works, i.e. that it cannot be earned (Ephesians 2:8, 9) some have suggested that obedience is not required. But even Paul tells that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account of our deeds,  good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10). Some will be saved, yet only “as through fire” (1 Corinthians 3:15).    

The Scriptures give us ample grounds for us to have assurance of salvation. A believer is given the right to be called a son or daughter of God (John 1:12). Scripture is written so that we may know we have (present possession) eternal life (1 John 5:13). But note that even here John tells us that they are also written that we might also continue. That is that we don't drift away.  And in what this is John saying we should continue? Well some of them are walking in the light as He is in the light (1:7), keeping His commandments (2:3), loving one another (3:14) etc.  Do we have to be perfect? Well no, but if we sin we have an advocate a Lawyer (Jesus) who Himself was the sacrifice for our sins (2:1,2). And if we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us (1:9).  Neglect is about failing to embrace, about taking things for granted. Business and marriages and many other things fail for neglect. We therefore  must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard.

Father, thank You for Your Word. We need Your help Lord to be zealous for good works (Titus 2:14), and to not be weary in well doing (Galatians 6:9).  Thank You Lord for the rewards that we will receive on that day if we do not faint (1 Corinthians 3:14). And On that day Lord I want to hear “Well done, good and faithful servantEnter into the joy of your lord”(Matthew 25:23).  I give Your praise and glory in Jesus  Name Amen