2:1

That is why it is necessary for us: Paul links the counsel in this verse to the subject he has been discussing​—the superiority of Christ to the angels. (Heb 1:1-14) In the past, God spoke by means of imperfect human prophets and even angels. (Heb 2:2) Now, in contrast, God has done something even greater; he has spoken by means of his own Son, the one who is at God’s right hand. It is thus necessary to listen to God’s greatest Spokesman.

pay more than the usual attention to the things we have heard: Paul here uses emphatic language to stress that Christians need to pay particularly earnest, close attention to what they have learned from the teachings of God’s own Son. For Hebrew Christians, there was a danger of being distracted by the powerful influence of Judaism, with its impressive temple, priesthood, and traditions. They needed to maintain their focus. The Greek verb here rendered “pay . . . attention to” was used for mooring a ship or for holding it on course toward harbor. Christians likewise needed to hold on to what they had learned, never loosening their grip. Some scholars have suggested that this is the first part of a nautical metaphor that is further developed in the following phrase.

so that we never drift away: Paul may be continuing a nautical illustration here. The Greek word rendered “drift away” was sometimes used regarding a ship that was in danger of drifting past its safe harbor. Strong currents or contrary winds could cause a ship to drift, especially if the crew were inattentive. Such a word picture would emphasize Paul’s urgent warning: If the Hebrew Christians allowed themselves to become careless or neglectful, they would likely drift away from the true faith and lose out on salvation.​—Heb 2:3; compare study note on Heb 3:12.