Hebrews 2:3
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;
Hebrews 2:3 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of neglecting the salvation offered by Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the magnitude of the salvation that was first preached by the Lord himself and then confirmed by those who heard his teachings. The phrase "so great salvation" highlights the importance and value of the gift of salvation that is available to all who believe. The verse warns that if one neglects or ignores this salvation, there will be no escape from the consequences. It underscores the seriousness of taking this salvation for granted and urges readers to fully embrace and accept the salvation that is offered through Christ. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual matters and to not take the gift of salvation lightly, as it is a life-changing and eternal treasure.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the importance of salvation and the consequences of neglecting it. The verse warns that there will be no escape for those who neglect the salvation offered by the Lord. The term "so great salvation" emphasizes the magnitude and significance of the salvation that is available through Jesus Christ. This salvation was first spoken by the Lord himself and then confirmed by those who heard his message. This highlights the authority and reliability of the message of salvation, as it was delivered directly by Jesus and then verified by eyewitnesses. The verse emphasizes the urgency of accepting and embracing this salvation, as neglecting it will lead to dire consequences. It serves as a reminder of the need to prioritize spiritual matters and not take salvation for granted.
Hebrews 2:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
how shall we escape, if we neglect so great a salvation? which having at the first been spoken through the Lord, was confirmed unto us by them that heard;
World English Bible
how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation—which at the first having been spoken through the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard;
Douay-Rheims
How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation? Which, having begun to be declared by the Lord, was confirmed unto us by them that heard him.
Geneva Bible (1599)
How shall we escape, if we neglect so great saluation, which at the first began to be preached by the Lord, and afterward was confirmed vnto vs by them that heard him,