2:2 For if the {c} word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;
(c) The Law which appointed punishment for the offenders: and which Paul says was given by angels, Gal 3:19 and by Stephen also in, Ac 7:53.
2:2 For if the word spoken by angels. The Jewish law. See notes on Ac 7:53 Ga 3:19. The law was given through the medium of angels, as was confessed by the Jews. See Josephus ( Antiq. 15:5, sec. 3).
Was steadfast. Confirmed by a penalty upon transgressors.
And every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward. Nothing is plainer in all Jewish history than that obedience to the law was rewarded and disobedience punished.
2:2 In giving the law, God spoke by angels; but in proclaiming the gospel, by his Son. Steadfast - Firm and valid. Every transgression - Commission of sin. Every disobedience - Omission of duty.
2:1-4 Christ being proved to be superior to the angels, this doctrine is applied. Our minds and memories are like a leaky vessel, they do not, without much care, retain what is poured into them. This proceeds from the corruption of our nature, temptations, worldly cares, and pleasures. Sinning against the gospel is neglect of this great salvation; it is a contempt of the saving grace of God in Christ, making light of it, not caring for it, not regarding either the worth of gospel grace, or the want of it, and our undone state without it. The Lord's judgments under the gospel dispensation are chiefly spiritual, but are on that account the more to be dreaded. Here is an appeal to the consciences of sinners. Even partial neglects will not escape rebukes; they often bring darkness on the souls they do not finally ruin. The setting forth the gospel was continued and confirmed by those who heard Christ, by the evangelists and apostles, who were witnesses of what Jesus Christ began both to do and to teach; and by the gifts of the Holy Ghost, qualified for the work to which they were called. And all this according to God's own will. It was the will of God that we should have sure ground for our faith, and a strong foundation for our hope in receiving the gospel. Let us mind this one thing needful, and attend to the Holy Scriptures, written by those who heard the words of our gracious Lord, and were inspired by his Spirit; then we shall be blessed with the good part that cannot be taken away.
