1. This letter was written to Christians who were in danger of falling away from the Lord. 2. It was written to encourage them [and us] to remain faithful to Christ. 3. In these verses, the inspired writer was persuading Christians "to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard." 4. He was referring to "the great salvation" that was spoken by Christ and confirmed by those who heard Him.
Discussion:
I. (vs.1) A WARNING IS GIVEN
A. This verse begins with "therefore." 1. "Therefore" indicates that this statement is based on what has just been said. 2. (ch.1) Jesus is shown to be: a. God's spokesman today (vs.1-3) b. far superior to the angels (vs.4-14). B. Since Jesus is God's spokesman today and He is far superior to the angels, we need to pay careful attention to His teachings and not let them slip away. 1. We learn from 2:3 that the things that Jesus spoke about the great salvation are under consideration. 2. We are warned not to allow the things that Jesus spoke about the great salvation to slip away [illustration: ring slipping from a finger].
II. (vs.2) THE WORD SPOKEN BY ANGELS IS MENTIONED
A. Angels were used many times in the Bible to deliver messages. 1. As God's messengers, their word was steadfast. 2. Every transgression and disobedience of their word received a just recompense of reward. B. Remember that Jesus was already shown to be far superior to the angels. C. The point being made: 1. Since the word spoken by angels was so important and since Jesus is superior to the angels, we ought to pay special attention to the things that Christ has to say about the great salvation. 2. Care must be given not to allow these things to slip away.
III. (vs.3) THE GREAT SALVATION IS MENTIONED
A. What is this great salvation? [Salvation from sins] B. Jesus was the first to speak of this great salvation. 1. He said that He came to make it available to us (Luke 19:10). 2. He also gave the plan whereby we can receive it. a. We must hear His word (Matthew 7:24-25). b. We must believe in Him (John 8:24). c. We must repent of our sins (Luke 13:3). d. We must confess Him (Matthew 10:32). e. We must be baptized (Mark 16:16). C. The great salvation was confirmed by those who heard Jesus [the apostles]. 1. Paul said that Jesus came to make salvation available (1 Timothy 1:15). 2. The apostles also confirmed the plan that Jesus first gave. a. We must hear the Lord's word (Romans 10:17). b. We must believe in Christ (Romans 10:10a). c. We must repent of sins (Acts 3:19). d. We must confess the Lord (Romans 10:10b). e. We must be baptized (Acts 2:38).
Conclusion:
1. We know what Jesus and the apostles said concerning the great salvation. 2. If it is neglected, there is no escape (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). 3. If it is received and allowed to slip away, there is no escape (Hebrews 3:12). 4. May God help us to give the more earnest heed to the things spoken by Christ and the apostles about the great salvation! 5. 2 Corinthians 6:2b
