Hebrews Chapter 2 OUR RESPONSE TO GOD
A.B. Simpson emphasizes the vital importance of earnestly heeding God's Word and responding in faith to avoid unbelief and enter His promised rest.
In this expository sermon on Hebrews chapters 2 to 4, A.B. Simpson challenges believers to respond faithfully to God's Word by giving it earnest attention and avoiding the pitfalls of unbelief. He unpacks the warnings and promises found in Hebrews, urging listeners to labor diligently to enter God's promised rest. Simpson's message is a call to spiritual vigilance and obedience, emphasizing the consequences of neglect and the blessings of faith.
Text
"Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip" (Heb. 2: 1).
"Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God" (Heb. 3: 12).
"While it is said, Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation" (Heb. 3: 15).
"Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it" (Heb. 4: 1).
"Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief" (Heb. 4: 11).
God has spoken. This is the first message of Hebrews. But what response does He expect from us? That is our present message, and it is answered in the passages quoted above.
1. "Let us give heed." The word "heed" is derived from "head," and it means that we should give our most earnest and careful attention and consideration to the great Messenger whom God has sent from the throne to bear His last word to men. How little attention we give to His Word! Preoccupied with a thousand other things when we hear it, and distracted afterwards by the whirl of the world\
Sermon Outline
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I
- The call to give earnest heed to God's Word
- The danger of neglecting the message
- The importance of focused attention on the Messenger
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II
- Warning against an evil heart of unbelief
- The consequences of departing from the living God
- The example of Israel's provocation
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III
- The promise of entering God's rest
- The need to labor to enter that rest
- The risk of falling short through unbelief
Key Quotes
“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.” — A.B. Simpson
“Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” — A.B. Simpson
“How little attention we give to His Word! Preoccupied with a thousand other things when we hear it, and distracted afterwards by the whirl of the world.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Listen attentively and prioritize God's Word above worldly distractions.
- Guard your heart against unbelief by maintaining faith and trust in God.
- Diligently pursue the spiritual rest and peace God promises through obedience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'give heed' to God's Word?
It means to give our most earnest and careful attention and consideration to God's message, not being distracted or preoccupied.
Why is unbelief described as an 'evil heart'?
Because unbelief leads to departing from God and missing out on His promises, which is harmful to our spiritual well-being.
What is the 'rest' mentioned in Hebrews?
The rest refers to the spiritual peace and salvation promised by God, which believers enter through faith and obedience.
How can we avoid falling short of God's rest?
By laboring to maintain faith, heeding God's Word, and avoiding the example of unbelief seen in Israel.
What is the main response God expects from us?
God expects us to respond with faith, obedience, and earnest attention to His Word.