Introduction: 1.In our lesson we are examining a number of verses that relate to "the great salvation" mentioned in Hebrews 2:3. 2.Before we do so, let us consider the context in which this statement is found. a.In Hebrews 2:1, a very important warning is given -- we must pay careful attention to the things we have heard and not allow them to slip away. b.In vs.2-4, a question is asked to show how serious this warning is -- is there any escape for those who neglect the great salvation that was made known by Christ? c.To fully appreciate this warning and the follow-up question, we need to be mindful of the information presented in chapter 1. 1)(1:1-3) God has spoken to us through Christ. 2)(1:4-14) Christ is far greater than the angels who have delivered messages from God to men on many occasions. d.Let us tie this in with 2:1 -- Since Jesus is God's spokesman today and since Jesus is far greater than the angels, we must pay careful attention to the things taught by the Lord and not allow them to slip away. 1)(vs.2) When God used angels to deliver messages, He punished those who disobeyed the angels -- their word was steadfast. 2)This being the case, will there be any escape for those who neglect the great salvation made known by the Lord? 3)Not only did the Lord make known the great salvation -- those who heard Jesus [the apostles] confirmed it. 4)God bore witness to the teachings of the apostles by giving them power to perform signs, wonders, and miracles, as well as the ability to exercise spiritual gifts. e.We must not neglect the great salvation that was made known by the Lord and confirmed by the apostles. 3.With this information in mind, let us search the Scriptures to determine what Christ and the apostles had to say about the great salvation.
Discussion:
I.IN STUDYING THE GREAT SALVATION, LET US BEGIN WITH THE LORD'S PURPOSE FOR COMING TO EARTH
A.Christ: "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10). B.Apostles: "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Timothy 1:15).
II.IN STUDYING THE GREAT SALVATION, LET US DETERMINE THE PRICE THAT WAS PAID SO WE COULD BE SAVED
A.Christ: "For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matthew 26:28). B.Apostles: "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ" (1 Peter 1:18-19).
III.IN STUDYING THE GREAT SALVATION, LET US FIND OUT HOW WE RECEIVE IT
A.To receive the great salvation we must believe. 1.Christ: "This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent" (John 6:29). 2.Apostles: "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness" (Romans 10:10a). B.To receive the great salvation we must repent. 1.Christ: "I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish" (Luke 13:3). 2.Apostles: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out" (Acts 3:19). C.To receive the great salvation we must confess the Lord. 1.Christ: "Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 10:32). 2.Apostles: "with the mouth confession is made unto salvation" (Romans 10:10b). D.To receive the great salvation we must be baptized. 1.Christ: (Mark 16:16) 2.Apostles: (Acts 2:38) E.We know from Christ and the apostles how to receive the great salvation; however, . . .
IV.HOW CAN A PERSON NEGLECT THE GREAT SALVATION?
A.By failing to obey the Gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9) B.By falling away after obeying the Gospel (2 Peter 2:20)
Conclusion:
1.God does not want anyone to neglect the great salvation. a.He made it available through His Son. b.He confirmed it through the apostles. 2.Those who obey the Gospel and remain faithful to the Lord will be blessed with a great reward (Revelation 2:10).
