"The Danger of Indifference" (Part 3)

We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. For if the message spoken by angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. (Hebrews 2:1-4 NIV).

Today we come to one of the most difficult verses in the Scripture. Some have interpreted this passage to reference those who do not accept Christ’s work on their behalf. This would lead them to the belief that the punishment is hell, or an eternity separated from God. While there is certainly a reference to both sin and punishment; the thing to be escaped is not hell. There is no evidence that the writer is thinking about such an ultimate reality. Rather he is thinking about the immediate judgment of God on indifferent believers. It is upon those who have refused or opposed salvation, but those who have neglected it.

The key in understanding this verse is in the meaning of the word “ignore.” It is variously translated in other versions as “neglect.” It means to be carelss, to not give attention to. It is the same word Paul uses in admonishing young Timothy to not “neglect the gift” that God had given him for his ministry.

So the question for us is what are we doing about the gift of salvation that God has given to us? Some might answer that they are just enjoying it. And, there is nothing wrong with enjoying the benefits of the grace of God at work in our lives. But we should be reminded that the Scripture urges us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.” We must be giving our most earnest attention to this Word of God, Jesus. It must not be neglected. We must pray and listen. We must submit to the plan and purpose of God for our lives.

That falls off our lips easily, doesn’t it? Please be assured that I intimately understand how difficult it is to walk the walk! For years I have preached and taught that outward circumstances should not determine inward happiness. The struggles this year have been many for us. And while there have been moments when I wondered if it really was worth it, my settled conviction is that when I compare my struggles with the great gift that God has provided in His Final Word, His only begotten Son, it has been a cakewalk for me! That hasn’t made my struggles any less. However, it has made my burdens lighter. And, you know, as I have learned clearly, trusting in Him will never leave you disappointed! Indifference, or neglect, will not allow that to take place in your life! It really is SO great a salvation! Let that be your only focus!