Hebrews 2:1-4

Context

Warning Against Drifting Away

2:1 Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2:2 For if the message spoken through angels¹ proved to be so firm that every violation² or disobedience received its just penalty, 2:3 how will we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was first communicated through the Lord and was confirmed to us by those who heard him, 2:4 while God confirmed their witness³ with signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed⁴ according to his will.

[2:2] ¹sn The message spoken through angels refers to the OT law, which according to Jewish tradition was mediated to Moses through angels (cf. Deut 33:2; Ps 68:17-18; Acts 7:38, 53; Gal 3:19; and Jub. 1:27, 29; Josephus, Ant. 15.5.3 [15.136]).

[2:2] ²tn Grk “through angels became valid and every violation.”

[2:4] ³tn Grk “God bearing witness together” (the phrase “with them” is implied).

[2:4] ⁴tn Grk “and distributions of the Holy Spirit.”