Neglect is to pay no attention or too little attention to; to fail to carry out or perform ones duties. In the New Testament the word means to make light of.
Everyone can potentially be neglectful. The Hebrew writer contends that negligence will seal one’s eternal destination. Husbands/Fathers can neglect to provide for his family’s physical needs. (1 Tim. 5:8) Wives/Mothers can neglect their duties in the home. (Titus 2:5) Children can neglect to obey their parents. (Eph. 6:1) Parents can be negligent in not providing spiritual food for their family- esteeming secular demands above those of spiritual importance. (Eph. 6:4)
Elders/Deacons can neglect the flock by not overseeing and serving. (1 Tim. 3)
Preachers/Teachers can neglect to study and teach sound doctrine. (1 Tim. 4:15, 16)
Members can neglect to recognize the authority of the elders or heed the godly words spoken by the teachers and preachers.
We will have to give an account of our stewardship and actions. (Luke 16:2; 1 Cor. 5:10) As reflect upon these things, may we be more mindful of the things which we neglect and purpose in our hearts to put God’s commandments first and our own desires last. (Matthew 6:33)
Tavares D. Mathews