Bible Diary - Hebrews 1:13-14; 2:1-4
May 4, 2008
The author wraps up his argument that Jesus is greater than the angels by observing that Jesus sits at God’s right hand until all enemies of the Son are conquered. And who might these enemies be? The fallen angels, headed by Satan, are the sworn enemies of God. They will be conquered when Christ returns at the final judgment when God rings down the curtain on history.
1:13 But to which of the angels has he ever said, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet”? 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to serve those who will inherit salvation?
Warning Against Drifting Away
2:1 Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2:2 For if the message spoken through angels proved to be so firm that every violation or disobedience received its just penalty, 2:3 how will we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was first communicated through the Lord and was confirmed to us by those who heard him, 2:4 while God confirmed their witness with signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.
Now, I really never thought that there were any angels closer to God than Jesus, but it’s interesting to see the arguments used to convince the first century Jewish Christians, some of whom were worshipping angels. Then comes the “therefore” that must grab every Christian reader by the lapels. These words at the beginning of Chapter 2 are not of just passing interest. They are convicting words to all believers.
My world is crowded with distractions, any of which can cause me to drift away, that is, to take my eye off the ball. While I believe that my ultimate salvation is assured, I’m also commanded to be obedient to my Master, to do, in the words of Oswald Chambers, my utmost for His highest. That is where the Christian life is lived — in the tension between these two realities.
Dave, just pluggin’ away.
-sdg-
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