How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” (Heb 2:3 KJV).
The purpose of the book of Hebrews is to show the excellencies of the Lord Jesus Christ. The writer does so to the extent that he even hides his own name from the reader. He records the ways in which God has spoken, and now calls upon the reader to respond to His voice. God clearly declares His will, and He expects us to make an intelligent decision when the Word asks, “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?”
The Context
The writer expresses a question that comes from his knowledge of God and His Word. He tells us of events that took place in the past to show us the principles of God. These principles include work and payment, sin and judgment, as well as choices and consequences. The words before the question under consideration recall events when God spoke and carried out His Word. There are sins of commission here called transgressions. That is to blatantly cross the line, knowing it is wrong to do so. The sins of omission, called disobedience, are to know what is right and refuse to do so. God judges each one according to their sin.
The Content
This verse tells us it is the Lord who spoke of this great salvation and not angels. The message comes directly from the Sovereign to the creature. The salvation is great because of the price that was paid to procure it. This same writer uses the expression “shedding of blood” to stipulate the price. The Lord Jesus’ blood is called precious because it paid for this great salvation. This salvation is great because of the people it can reach. It is for all the souls in the world. This salvation is great because of the power it displays in changing lives. It takes sin away, brings reconciliation where there was enmity, and a living Saviour gives complete forgiveness. Finally, this salvation is great because of the purpose it fulfills. God wants to have fellowship with people, and sin destroyed that possibility. So, He purposed to allow souls to escape destruction by providing salvation.
The Conflict
There is an opportunity to escape, but will you take advantage of it? On the one hand there is salvation; on the other, the Word of God says there is retribution. The question in the verse implies a negative answer – there is no escape!
The Conclusion
God proved this message was His by powerful signs pointing to Himself. It caused wonder in the beholder and showed the miracles were beyond human ability. God is the author of these works, the offerer of salvation, and the just Judge of all who do not accept His gift. There is no possibility of escaping if you do not listen to the voice of God and obey His message by receiving salvation. This great salvation is your escape; without it there is none.
