Hebrews 12:18-29

https://www.biblestudytools.com/ncv/hebrews/passage/?q=hebrews+12:18-29

The Mountain of Fear and the Mountain of Joy

18 You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; 19 to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them, 20 because they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.” 21 The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” 22 But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, 23 to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, 24 to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. 25 See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? 26 At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” 27 The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our “God is a consuming fire.”

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

12:18-24 What a contrast between the people's terrified approach to God at Mount Sinai and their joyful approach at Mount Zion! What a difference Jesus has made! Before Jesus came, God seemed distant and threatening. After Jesus came, God welcomes us through Christ into his presence. Accept God's invitation.

12:22 As Christians, we are citizens of the heavenly Jerusalem right now; because Christ rules our lives, the Holy Spirit is always with us, and we experience close fellowship with other believers. The full and ultimate rewards and reality of the heavenly Jerusalem are depicted in Revelation 21.

12:27-29 Eventually the world will crumble, and only God's kingdom will last. Those who follow Christ are part of this unshakeable kingdom, and they will withstand the shaking, sifting, and burning. When we feel unsure about the future, we can take confidence from these verses. No matter what happens here, our future is built on a solid foundation that cannot be destroyed. Don't put your confidence in what will be destroyed; instead, build your life on Christ and his unshakeable kingdom. (See Matthew 7:24-29 for the importance of building on a solid foundation.)

12:29 There is a big difference between the flame of a candle and the roaring blast of a forest fire. We cannot even stand near a raging fire. Even with sophisticated fire-fighting equipment, a consuming fire is often beyond human control. God is not within our control either. We cannot force him to do anything for us through our prayers. He cannot be contained. Yet, he is a God of compassion. He has saved us from sin, and he will save us from death. But everything that is worthless and sinful will be consumed by the fire of his wrath. Only what is good, dedicated to God, and righteous will remain.

There are times when worship is quiet and contemplative. And then there are times when worship joins the angels in their tumultuous songs of joy. And there are times of worship when one just walks through the routine of life comfortable knowing the presence of the Holy Spirit of Truth is guiding and that the Savior is the focus. We should recognize God with awe in all these times. He is there. He is omnipresent. What peace comes in that recognition!

Our Father, thank You for Your plan that is in place. Thank You for Your $on, our Savior, who is setting things right. Helps us endure in firm, unshakeable worship of You. Give us every opportunity to accept Your invitation. Helps us know that it applies to us. Then help us grow in our understanding of You such that we cannot help but be in awe and reverent worship. Once we have seen the Truth, when we truly know The Way, and The Truth, and The Life, Lord, there is no turning back. Let us stand firm, then, in Your love. In Jesus' Holy name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtube.com/watch?v=UDckbS5dwLM

Have a blessed day.