Stephen begins by introducing the Book of Hebrews, specifically chapter 2 verses 1-4, emphasizing its nature as a letter of exhortation meant to encourage and warn. He highlights the importance of paying attention to God's revelation, particularly regarding the glory of the Son of God (Hebrews 1) and the suffering of the Son of Man (Hebrews 2).
Stephen then delves into the dangers of neglecting this revelation, likening it to a boat drifting with the current or a leaking vessel losing its precious contents. He stresses the need to examine our hearts, questioning whether we are truly allowing God's word to transform our lives or if we are distracted by the world, our own desires, and the opinions of others.
Stephen concludes by reminding us of the seriousness of neglecting God's "so great salvation," which encompasses not just our initial salvation from sin but also our growth in Christ and ultimate glorification. He urges us to examine our spiritual condition, repent, and seek God's restoration, allowing Him to fill our hearts and guide us towards the "anchor" of Christ.
Introduction (Hebrews 2:1-4)
The Book of Hebrews as an exhortation: encouragement and warning
The Importance of Paying Attention
The glory of the Son of God (Hebrews 1)
The suffering of the Son of Man (Hebrews 2)
The danger of neglecting God's revelation: drifting and leaking
Examining our hearts: are we truly transformed by God's word?
The Seriousness of Neglecting "So Great Salvation"
Beyond initial salvation: growth, glorification, and reigning with Christ
The danger of complacency and the need for urgency
Call to Action:
Examine our spiritual condition
Repent and seek restoration
Allow God to fill our hearts and guide us
The original audio recording had some very low volume sections that we have attempted to restore with limited success.
1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. 2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; 3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
22 And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.