‘We must give…earnest heed…lest we drift away.’ Hebrews 2:1 NKJV
The Bible says, ‘We must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away…how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?’ (vv. 1, 3 NKJV). Note the words ‘drift’ and ‘neglect’. Those words should set off alarm bells!
Samson’s decline was so gradual that he didn’t even realise it was happening. Like flipping a switch, he’d become used to drawing on the power of God and overcoming every enemy and obstacle. But sin and self-indulgence became his undoing. When Delilah said, ‘“The Philistines are upon you, Samson!”…he awoke from his sleep, and said, “I will go out as before, at other times, and shake myself free!” But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him. Then the Philistines took him’ (Judges 16:20-21 NKJV).
When you neglect God, you begin to ‘drift away’. Your prayers aren’t as effective. You’re no longer a godly influence on those around you. You slip back into old habit patterns. You refuse to forgive those who’ve offended you. You fail to make amends to those you’ve hurt. You start doing what’s expedient and comfortable instead of what’s right. You harbour attitudes of fear and resentment. You feed your old nature and neglect your new one.
These are all signs that you need a spiritual check-up. Ask God today to highlight those attitudes, activities and relationships that need to be dealt with and start weeding them out. The good news is that when you’re obedient to God’s Word and the Spirit’s leading, you regain your spiritual vitality and God can use you more effectively.
Drifting away
Drifting away from a relationship with God can have profound consequences for our spiritual well-being and overall life. Here are ten reasons why it is not good for us to drift away from our relationship with God:
1. Loss of guidance: When we drift away from God, we lose the divine guidance and wisdom that comes from seeking His will. Without His direction, we may find ourselves feeling lost or making decisions based solely on our own understanding.
2. Lack of peace: God’s presence brings peace and comfort to our lives. Drifting away from Him can lead to a sense of unrest and inner turmoil as we try to navigate life’s challenges without His calming influence.
3. Weakening of faith: A strong relationship with God nurtures and strengthens our faith. When we drift away, doubts and uncertainties can creep in, undermining our belief in His existence and His promises.
4. Loss of spiritual nourishment: Regular communion with God through prayer, worship, and studying His Word provides spiritual nourishment. Drifting away means missing out on this nourishment, which can leave us spiritually malnourished and vulnerable to negative influences.
5. Increased susceptibility to temptations: The further we drift from God, the more susceptible we become to temptations and sinful behaviors. Without His presence and guidance, we lack the strength and discernment to resist the allure of worldly pleasures.
6. Strained relationships: Our relationship with God impacts our relationships with others. Drifting away can lead to a neglect of our responsibilities towards others, resulting in strained relationships and a diminished capacity to love and serve others selflessly.
7. Loss of purpose: God gives us purpose and meaning in life. When we drift away, we may lose sight of our true purpose and find ourselves pursuing empty and fleeting pursuits that fail to bring lasting fulfillment.
8. Decreased resilience: A strong relationship with God provides strength and resilience in the face of trials and challenges. Drifting away leaves us vulnerable and ill-equipped to handle the inevitable difficulties that life throws our way.
9. Missed opportunities for growth: God uses various circumstances and experiences to shape and mold us into better individuals. By drifting away, we miss out on the transformative lessons and growth opportunities that He provides.
10. Separation from eternal life: Ultimately, our relationship with God determines our eternal destiny. Drifting away from Him puts our salvation at risk, potentially leading to separation from Him in the afterlife.
In summary, drifting away from a relationship with God has numerous negative consequences for our spiritual well-being and overall life. It is essential to recognize the importance of nurturing and maintaining that relationship, seeking His guidance, peace, and purpose in all aspects of our lives.
Hebrews
The authorship of the Book of Hebrews in the Bible has been a subject of debate and speculation throughout history. Unlike most of the other New Testament books, the author of Hebrews does not identify himself. The book does not begin with a traditional introduction stating the author’s name, as we find in Paul’s letters, for example. As a result, scholars have put forth various theories regarding the author’s identity.
One prominent theory suggests that the Apostle Paul wrote the Book of Hebrews. This theory is based on similarities in writing style and theological themes found in Paul’s other letters. However, there are also differences in style and vocabulary that raise questions about Pauline authorship.
Another theory proposes that the author may have been someone closely associated with Paul, such as Luke, Barnabas, or Apollos. These individuals were well-versed in the Scriptures and had connections to the early Christian community.
Some scholars have suggested that Priscilla, a prominent figure in the early church, may have written Hebrews. However, this theory remains speculative and lacks substantial evidence.
Ultimately, the true author of Hebrews remains unknown. It is important to note that the author’s anonymity does not diminish the significance or inspiration of the book. The early Christian community recognized its value and included it in the canon of Scripture.
Regarding the intended recipients of the Book of Hebrews, the title itself suggests that it was written to a Jewish audience or Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament and Jewish religious practices. The book contains extensive references to Jewish history, rituals, and the priesthood.
The purpose of Hebrews was to encourage and exhort Jewish believers to persevere in their faith in Jesus Christ. The author emphasizes the superiority of Christ over the Old Testament system, highlighting His role as the ultimate High Priest and the mediator of a new and better covenant.
The author addresses the challenges and temptations faced by the recipients, including the pressures to revert to Jewish rituals and traditions. The book seeks to strengthen their faith and reinforce the importance of relying on Christ alone for salvation.
In conclusion, the authorship of the Book of Hebrews remains uncertain, and theories abound regarding the writer’s identity. The book was written to a Jewish audience, aiming to exhort and encourage them in their faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing His superiority over the Old Testament system. Despite the unknown author, the book has been cherished and valued by Christians throughout history as an inspired and significant part of the Bible.
