Listen to him!

It wasn’t long ago that I wrote on the parallel passage from Mark concerning Jesus’ transfiguration.

But the Father’s words, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased. Listen to him!” still ring in my heart.

The writer of Hebrews, perhaps recalling this story, said this:

Long ago God spoke to the fathers by the prophets (like Moses and Elijah) at different times and in different ways. In these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son. (Hebrews 1:1-2)

In chapter 2, he continues,

For this reason, we must pay attention all the more to what we have heard, so that we will not drift away.

For if the message spoken through angels was legally binding and every transgression and disobedience received a just punishment, how will we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?

This salvation had its beginning when it was spoken of by the Lord (Jesus), and it was confirmed to us by those who heard him (the apostles and other witnesses).

At the same time, God also testified by signs and wonders, various miracles, and distributions of gifts from the Holy Spirit according to his will. (Hebrews 2:1-4)

One of the main points of the letter to the Hebrews is that we are to hold tightly to this gospel we have received.

The problem was that people who had once claimed to believe it had fallen away from it. Why? Because the gospel had not truly taken root in their hearts. (Matthew 13:5-6).

Their understanding of the gospel was extremely shallow and they never truly understood what the gospel was and what it means to be a Christian.

As I mentioned a few weeks ago, we see that happening even today with famous pastors and worship leaders falling away.

So I really challenge you: pay attention to what you have heard. Truly think about the gospel you have heard, the gospel Jesus preached to his disciples after his resurrection. (Luke 24:25-27, 45-47).

Do you truly understand it? Do you truly understand what sin is? Why is it so bad?

Who was Jesus? How do we know he truly is God?

Why did Jesus have to die? Why is the resurrection so important?

What does it truly mean to be a Christian? Why do you believe what you believe?

Can you answer those things beyond the standard, shallow Christian replies?

If not, it’s time to start asking those questions. Listen to the answers Jesus gives. Listen to the answers that he gave through his apostles.

Listen!

For if the law God gave to Moses through angels condemned those who broke it, how can we escape if reject the gospel of salvation he has given through his Son?