I’m sure every nation and people group on earth have days of utmost significance, dates on which it is remembered clearly and deeply that ideas matter and actions have consequences. Take 9/11, for example. In the span of a few hours, this date like any other was transformed into a solemn experience that has changed the perspective of an entire country, its people, and even the world.
The images of that day are haunting. The memories are still fresh. The questions are still burning—How? Why? The idea of 9/11 affects us all, but we must also remember that is was an idea that led to 9/11 in the first place. The false beliefs of some brought pain, destruction, and death to so many. Indeed, ideas matter.
Ideas matter because they shape the way we see the world. How we look at people, even certain people, will be affected by our ideas about others. Will we seek peace? Will we be suspicious? Will we help? Will we pass on by? Indeed, ideas matter.
Ideas matter because they inform our decisions and our actions. “Traffic will stop for me if I just step out in the street. What’s the worry?” A misguided idea about the nature of a situation can lead to decisions that result in severe, life-altering consequences. Indeed, ideas matter.
Ideas matter because eternity is on the line. If we do not “Pay Attention” to the truth of God’s Word, if we ignore the gospel of Jesus Christ, if we “neglect such a great salvation,” what should we expect as the result? Hebrews 2:1-4 warns us not to drift away from the truth because the consequences are dire. If we hold on to our confession of Jesus as Lord, then we have hope with God. If we drift from this confession, what hope can we have? Indeed, ideas matter.
Thirteen years ago, a group of men chose to die for a lie and took as many people as they could with them. What will you choose to do for the sake of the truth?
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In preparation for Session 2 of Explore the Bible’s study in Hebrews, check out these brief session overview videos at MinistryGrid.com:
Kids (resource training videos)