Hebrews 2:1 (NKJV) 1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.
Some scriptures are much easier to fully comprehend when we understand the point of view or the cultural context from which they were written.
This verse is one of those.
In and of itself, this scripture doesn’t seem to say much. But let’s look at it in a bit more depth to see what we can glean from it. I promise it’ll be worth the effort!
Anytime a verse starts with the word, “therefore”, we know it is referring to something that was said previously.
In this case, the writer is referring to Chapter 1, which spoke of the supremacy of Christ.
We need to keep in mind that the book of Hebrews was written to early Christians, primarily Jews who had converted to Christianity.
Those early Jewish Christians believed that Jesus would return quickly. So, when He didn’t, their faith began to falter.
Thus, the admonition to more earnestly heed the things they had heard (the gospel of Christ), lest they drift away (from their faith).
One of the things that caught my attention in this is the writer’s concern that these believers would “drift away”. The illustration being drawn here is that of a ship drifting past a place of safe anchorage.
When these believers realized that Jesus wasn’t returning anytime soon, they began to wander back toward their Jewish traditions and rituals.
There was a very genuine concern on the writer’s part (verses 2&3) as he expressed fear that those who abandoned their faith would face retribution/punishment for doing so.
This should cause every one of us to also take very seriously our commitment to Christ, paying attention to the warnings issued by Peter (2 Peter 1:10) to “be even more diligent to make your call and election sure”.
Our eternal destiny lies in our own hands. Let us be sure to handle it in a way that’s pleasing to our Lord and that ensures our salvation.
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443
401-439-3780
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