Hebrews 4:2
“For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.”
Context
The Book of Hebrews is a letter written to Jewish Christians, emphasizing the superiority of Jesus Christ and the New Covenant over the Old Covenant. The author encourages the readers to persevere in their faith and not turn back to Judaism.
Gospel preached to us and them
The verse begins by stating that the gospel was preached to both the original readers (us) and to the Israelites in the wilderness (them). The Israelites received the good news of God’s promises and deliverance from slavery in Egypt, but they failed to enter the promised land due to their disobedience and lack of faith (Hebrews 3:16-19). Similarly, the author affirms that the gospel has been preached to the readers, referring to the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Word not profiting them
The verse highlights that although the Israelites heard the word of God, it did not benefit them because they lacked faith. Despite witnessing miraculous signs and experiencing God’s provision and guidance in the wilderness, they failed to trust in God fully. Consequently, they missed out on the blessings and rest God had prepared for them.
Faith and its significance
The key reason why the word did not profit the Israelites was their lack of faith. Faith involves trust, belief, and obedience in response to God’s word. It is an essential component in receiving the promises of God. The author emphasizes that it is not merely hearing the word but also having faith in it that brings about transformation and enables one to appropriate the promises of God.
Application for believers
This verse serves as a warning and exhortation for the readers of Hebrews to examine their own faith. It reminds them that simply hearing the gospel is not enough; they must respond to it with genuine faith. Faith is the key to entering into the rest that God offers, which is ultimately found in Jesus Christ. The readers are encouraged to trust in Jesus and hold fast to their confession of faith, even in the face of trials and difficulties.
