Chapter 2: The Son's Message

Introduction

Hebrews Chapter 2 emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the message declared by the Son, Jesus Christ. The chapter warns against neglecting this great salvation and contrasts the Son's message with the law given through angels, underscoring the superiority and authority of Jesus' revelation.

Overview of Hebrews 2

Hebrews 2 can be divided into three main sections:

1. Warning Against Neglecting Salvation (verses 1-4)
2. The Son Made Lower than Angels (verses 5-9)
3. Jesus the Author of Salvation (verses 10-18)

Warning Against Neglecting Salvation (Hebrews 2:1-4)

Verses 1-2: The chapter begins with a warning to pay closer attention to the message heard, so we do not drift away. The law spoken through angels was binding, and every violation received just punishment.

Verses 3-4: The salvation proclaimed by the Lord is of greater significance. It was first announced by the Lord, confirmed by those who heard Him, and testified by God through signs, wonders, miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit.

The Son Made Lower than Angels (Hebrews 2:5-9)

Verses 5-8: The author quotes Psalm 8, emphasizing that God has put everything under human dominion. Jesus, though for a little while made lower than the angels, was crowned with glory and honor because He suffered death.

Verse 9: Jesus' suffering and death allowed Him to taste death for everyone, demonstrating His role as the ultimate Savior.

Jesus the Author of Salvation (Hebrews 2:10-18)

Verses 10-13: It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of salvation perfect through suffering. Jesus is not ashamed to call believers His brothers and sisters.

Verses 14-18: Jesus shared in humanity's flesh and blood to destroy the power of death and the devil. He became fully human to be a merciful and faithful high priest, making atonement for the sins of the people and helping those who are tempted.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is the message of salvation through Jesus considered greater than the law given through angels?
2. How does the humanity of Jesus enable Him to be the perfect high priest and Savior?
3. What does it mean that Jesus tasted death for everyone, and how does this relate to His role as Savior?
4. How does Hebrews 2:14-15 describe Jesus' victory over death and the devil?

OT Verses Quoted in Hebrews Chapter 2

• Hebrews 2:6-8 - "What are mere mortals that you should think about them, or a son of man that you should care for him? Yet for a little while you made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You gave them authority over all things." - Psalm 8:4-6
• Hebrews 2:12 - "I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among your assembled people." - Psalm 22:22
• Hebrews 2:13 - "I will put my trust in him," that is, "I and the children God has given me." - Isaiah 8:17-18

Key Themes and Takeaways

1. The Urgency of Salvation: The message of salvation through Jesus is greater than the law and should not be neglected.
2. The Humanity and Divinity of Jesus: Jesus, though made lower than angels, is crowned with glory and honor. His humanity enables Him to be the perfect high priest and Savior.
3. Victory Over Death: Through His death, Jesus destroyed the power of death and freed those enslaved by its fear.

Conclusion

Hebrews 2 emphasizes the critical importance of heeding the message of salvation proclaimed by Jesus. It underscores the full humanity of Jesus, who, though made lower than the angels, accomplished the ultimate victory over sin and death. This chapter calls believers to recognize the greatness of their salvation and the profound role of Jesus as both high priest and Savior.