Refuse Not Him that Speaketh (Hebrews 12:25)

2024-01-27

See that ye refuse not him that speaketh (Hebrews 12:25)

Jesus’ blood speaks grace, unlike the voice of Abel’s blood that cried out to God from the ground. What is it to “refuse” the One that speaks?

The same word is translated “excused” in Luke 14:18-19. Consider the passage in context, Luke 14:16-24. Note that these people that excused themselves from the supper were not excusing themselves to sin. Owning land or oxen or having a wife is not sinful. However, they were too busy with the affairs of this life. Those that were too poor and too downtrodden were able to come as they could not be preoccupied with anything. But for those who “excused” themselves were not accepted: “For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper” (Luke 14:24).

Note this is different from what we see in Deuteronomy 20:3-8. When the people were to go to battle, if there was land they had to attend to, or a wife they were to marry, they were excused from battle. There was no shame in this case. When it comes to Christ, there is a world of difference.

Elsewhere, this word for “refuse” is translated “avoid”: “But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes” (2 Timothy 2:23). Pointless questions that do not edify the body but rather cause debate are to be refused. Keep away from them. However, if one avoids and keeps away from Christ in that same way, even if they think they are well meaning, will not escape their own judgment. Do not avoid Him, because you cannot anyway.