Bible Strands
Hebrews 2:1
We must pay closer attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The unnamed author of Hebrews writes to Jewish believers who have already received the message but are in danger of drifting. This verse caps the argument for Christ's superiority over angels (1:1–2:1) with a practical command.
The words — Perissoterōs (περισσοτέρως) is a comparative adverb, "more abundantly," marking the required attention as a higher degree than ordinary listening. Prosechein (προσέχειν) is the verb root behind "prosoche" (watchfulness), implying sustained, directed attention rather than passive hearing.
The thread — The same pressure appears in Luke 8:15, where the good-soil hearer "clings to it and perseveres," and in 2 Peter 1:12, where the writer reminds believers of truths they already know. Proverbs 7:1 echoes the demand to "keep" and "treasure" words already received.
Why it lands — The verse does not introduce new content; it demands that the listener intensify their grip on what is already in hand. Drift is the stated failure mode, and the remedy is not more information but more attention.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
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.
Cross-references
- Luke 8:15 But the seeds on good soil are those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, cling to it, and by persevering produce a crop.
- 2 Peter 1:12 Therefore I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are established in the truth you now have.
- Proverbs 7:1 My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you.
- Proverbs 2:1 My son, if you accept my words and hide my commandments within you,
- Deuteronomy 4:9 Only be on your guard and diligently watch yourselves, so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen, and so that they do not slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and grandchildren.
- Hebrews 1:1 On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets.
- 2 Peter 3:1 Beloved, this is now my second letter to you. Both of them are reminders to stir you to wholesome thinking
- 2 Peter 1:15 And I will make every effort to ensure that after my departure, you will be able to recall these things at all times.
- Joshua 23:11 Therefore watch yourselves carefully, that you love the LORD your God.
- Proverbs 3:21 My son, do not lose sight of this: Preserve sound judgment and discernment.