Therefore, we must attend all the more to what we have heard, so that we may not be carried away. 2 For if the word announced through angels proved firm, and every transgression and disobedience received its just recompense, 3 how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? Announced originally through the Lord, it was confirmed for us by those who had heard. 4 God added his testimony by signs, wonders, various acts of power, and distribution of the gifts of the holy Spirit according to his will.
The Letter to the Hebrews has been attributed by some scholars to Paul and it addresses Jewish Christians facing trials. However, the specific location of the audience is unknown. Some were tempted to revert to Judaism or abandon their faith in Christ and the author encouraged his audience to persevere in their faith, diligently adhere to the teachings of Christ, and remain steadfast amidst challenges. The salvation offered by Jesus Christ is greater than the message proclaimed by the angels in the Old Testament. The Epistle to the Hebrews emphasizes Christ's superiority over all aspects of the Old Covenant. Ignoring Jesus’ message of salvation is a rejection of divine grace which can lead to spiritual peril since it is the only way humanity can be reconciled with God and obtain eternal life.
During his earthly ministry, Jesus Christ himself proclaimed this message of salvation which was confirmed by the apostles and other eyewitnesses who heard Jesus' teachings and witnessed his ministry, death, and resurrection (Jn. 3:16-17). Jesus’ message was also confirmed by signs and wonders, such as miracles performed by Jesus and the apostles, which authenticated the authority and power behind Jesus’ message. Jesus is the only means by which humanity can be reconciled with God and obtain eternal life (Jn. 14:6).
Almighty God, help us to diligently heed your Word and never turn away from the truth proclaimed by your Son. Grant us the grace to embrace the offer of salvation with all our hearts, minds, and souls trusting in your Son and the signs of your divine power. This we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen!
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References
Chiu, José Enrique Aguilar, et al. The Paulist Biblical Commentary. Paulist Press, 2018.
Brown, Raymond Edward, et al. The New Jerome Biblical Commentary. Upper Saddle River, NJ, United States, Prentice Hall, 1990.
Chiu, José Enrique Aguilar, et al. The Paulist Biblical Commentary. Paulist Press, 2018.
Brown, Raymond Edward, et al. The New Jerome Biblical Commentary. Upper Saddle River, NJ, United States, Prentice Hall, 1990.
Orchard, Bernard, et al. A Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture. Feb. 1953.
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