Proper 24: Epistle, Hebrews 4:1-13                                              

Hebrews 4:1-13 

Today’s reading is one of those that is “packed,” and comments and thoughts fly from so many directions. Last week we were the recipients of God’s command to open our ears and listen with attention. The opening of the reading today is the “why.” Hearing God’s message doesn’t guarantee reception and reception doesn’t guarantee “effective” reception unless God grants the gift of faith. The good news about Jesus actually creates that faith (cf. Romans 10:17) but as with any gift there can be resistance and rejection. Seems odd. But it’s true. Why would anyone turn down a gift of the Almighty?

The writer of Hebrews uses strong language at the outset of chapter four, calling the reader to be in a state of holy fear over whether or not God’s Word has been truly received. Speaking of the church in the wilderness having received God’s message, the writer says, “For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it” (4:2, NKJV).

Scary thought. Horrific reality to ponder. The gospel, the good news of God rejected. Sometimes it’s hard for us who love the Savior to actually grasp the idea that people don’t want Him. But the world about us is not neutral. Dear old Dr. Mitchell used to say, “Never forget the world hates Jesus Christ.” Stunning indeed.

The gospel is not automatic in any sense. From its source, to its proclamation, to its reception for salvation. It’s not automatic and it isn’t easy. Listening for the end which God intends is hard work. “Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it” (4:1, NKJV). Good counsel.