Hebrews 2:4 “For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will”?
The word spoken through angels is a way to describe the Mosaic Law, which was received… by the direction of angels (Acts 7:53). The idea is that the law was “delivered” to Moses by the hands of angels.
The idea that angels had a role in bringing the Law to Moses is found in Deuteronomy 33:2, Acts 7:53, and in Galatians 3:19.
Proved steadfast: The Mosaic Law was steadfast and strict (every transgression and disobedience received a just reward). It demanded to be taken seriously.
How shall we escape: If we must take the word which came by angels seriously, then we must take the word that came by the Son of God even more seriously. The Son is proven to be greater than the angels, so His message should be regarded as greater. A greater word brought by a greater Person having greater promises will bring a greater condemnation if it is neglected.
If we neglect so great a salvation: The word ancient Greek word translated neglect is also used in Matthew 22:5 (and refers to those who disregarded the invitation to the marriage supper. It means to have the opportunity but to ignore or disregard the opportunity.
Remember that Hebrews was written to a group of people,some still hanging on to their judaism and the idea that the law saved. as the way, some trying to decide for Christ and some that were in Christ.
He tells them to to neglect this great free gift of Grace but to enter in by faith alone in the finished work of the superior final revelation.
This word was spoken by Jesus and confirmed by eyewitnesses (those who heard Him). Then it was confirmed with signs, wonders, miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit given by God.
God also bearing witness: God does often confirm His word with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit. But He does it all according to His own will, not on the command of man.
Miracles are said to “Follow” those who believe those who believe are not to follow miracles. That is up to God. He wants our childlike trust in his word. Have you trusted him?
You ponder that