Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.

HEBREWS 2:1KJV
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Hebrews 2:1 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 2:1 mean?

Hebrews 2:1 urges readers to pay extra careful attention to the teachings they have received, warning that if they are not attentive, these truths could slip away from them. The verse emphasizes the need for ongoing focus and seriousness about what has been taught so that nothing important is lost or forgotten.

The letter to the Hebrews was written to early Christians who were facing pressure and possible discouragement. The writer, likely addressing Jewish believers, is reminding them that what they have heard about Jesus is crucial and must not be neglected. This verse sets the tone for the following warnings in the letter, highlighting the real danger of drifting away from the core message if it is not held onto deliberately.

The Greek behind Hebrews 2:1

  • "Earnest" (περισσοτέρως, perissoterōs): This word means "more exceedingly" or "with greater intensity." The writer is not just asking for attention, but for a heightened, extra level of care and seriousness.
  • "Heed" (προσέχειν, prosechein): This Greek word means "to pay attention to" or "to hold the mind towards." It suggests an active, ongoing effort, not just a one-time listening.
  • "Slip" (παραρυῶμεν, pararyōmen): This word is often used for something drifting away, like a boat that is not anchored. It paints a picture of truth quietly slipping out of reach if not actively held onto.

Why Hebrews 2:1 matters

  • Hebrews 2:1 clarifies that spiritual truth is not something people can assume will stay with them automatically; it requires intentional attention and care.
  • The verse highlights the risk of spiritual drift, using a vivid word-picture that would have resonated with readers familiar with boats and water, making the warning practical and relatable.
  • This warning connects to the larger message of Hebrews, which repeatedly urges believers not to fall back or lose sight of what they have learned about Jesus, especially in times of challenge or distraction.

Where else these words appear

“earnest” Greek G4056 · used in 12 verses

  • Mark 15:14 Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.
  • 2 Corinthians 7:13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.
  • Galatians 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

“heed” Greek G4337 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 6:1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
  • Luke 17:3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.
  • Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

“time” Greek G3379 · used in 25 verses

  • Matthew 4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
  • Mark 4:12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.
  • Luke 21:34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.

“ought” Greek G1163 · used in 104 verses

  • Matthew 16:21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
  • John 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
  • Romans 1:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.