Hebrews 2:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 2:3
3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
Chapter Context
Hebrews 2 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, salvation, truth. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 2:3
3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
Analysis
The rhetorical question expects the answer: there is no escape. 'Neglect' (Greek 'amelesantes') implies not rejection but indifference or carelessness toward salvation. This is more dangerous than outright rejection because it appears less serious. 'So great salvation' encompasses deliverance from sin's penalty, power, and eventually presence—past, present, and future aspects of redemption.
Historical Context
The warning assumes readers understand salvation's magnitude. In the context of potential apostasy back to Judaism, the author stresses that abandoning Christ means abandoning the only means of salvation.
Reflection
- Are there ways you treat the gospel casually rather than with the weight it deserves?
- How would you describe the greatness of your salvation to someone who has never heard?
Word Studies
- Salvation: σωτηρία (Soteria) G4991 - Salvation, deliverance
Cross-References
- Salvation: Hebrews 5:9, Isaiah 62:11, Acts 4:12, Revelation 7:10
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 1:2, 4:11, 12:25, Ezekiel 17:15, Luke 1:2, Romans 2:3