What is the meaning of Hebrews 2:3? How shall we escape? “how shall we escape” (Hebrews 2:3) is a pointed reminder that judgment is not theoretical. Scripture speaks of only two destinies—life or wrath (John 3:36). • In the Old Covenant, even violations communicated through angels “received a just punishment” (Hebrews 2:2), so how much more severe is the consequence for rejecting the Son Himself (Hebrews 10:28-29). • There is no alternate route around God’s justice: “There is salvation in no one else” (Acts 4:12). • Jesus called His listeners to settle accounts before reaching the Judge (Luke 12:58-59), underscoring the urgency of repentance now, not later. If we neglect such a great salvation? Neglect is quieter than outright rebellion, yet just as lethal. It is the slow drift described in Hebrews 2:1. • “Great” because of what it cost—“You were redeemed…with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19). • “Great” because of whom it saves—“whoever believes in Him shall not perish” (John 3:16). • “Great” because of what it delivers from—“a fearful expectation of judgment” (Hebrews 10:27). To neglect is to treat the cross as optional, and Scripture warns that indifference still ends in condemnation (John 3:18). This salvation was first announced by the Lord Jesus Himself inaugurated the message: “The time is fulfilled…repent and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15). • He proclaimed liberty to captives (Luke 4:18-21), offered rest to the weary (Matthew 11:28-30), and revealed that He came “to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). • His authority gave the announcement unequaled weight—“He taught them as one having authority” (Matthew 7:29). Because the Lord personally declared the gospel, its authenticity and urgency stand beyond debate. Was confirmed to us by those who heard Him Eyewitnesses—apostles and early disciples—passed on exactly what they saw and heard (1 John 1:1-3). • Peter insisted, “We did not follow cleverly devised myths…we were eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). • The resurrection was attested by many witnesses (Acts 2:32; 1 Corinthians 15:5-8). • God further validated their testimony “by signs and wonders and various miracles” (Hebrews 2:4), showing the message is divinely certified. Thus, the chain of revelation is secure: spoken by the Lord, transmitted by eyewitnesses, and sealed by God’s power. summary Hebrews 2:3 confronts us with a sobering question: escape is impossible if the salvation Jesus announced, purchased, and confirmed is brushed aside. Because the offer comes directly from the Lord, attested by reliable witnesses, and carries eternal stakes, the only fitting response is wholehearted trust and diligent attention to “so great a salvation.” |
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