Hebrews 12:18 is about contrasting the fearful awe of Mount Sinai with the grace and access to God through Jesus Christ in the new covenant.
18 For you have not come to what may be touched, a blazing fire and darkness and gloom and a tempest.
Setting the Scene for Hebrews 12:18
In Hebrews chapter 12, the author sets the scene by contrasting the scene at Mount Sinai with the scene at Mount Zion. At Mount Sinai, the Israelites experienced fear and trembling as they encountered God’s presence amidst thunder, lightning, a thick cloud, and a loud trumpet blast. The people were warned not to touch the mountain, and even Moses, the mediator, was trembling with fear.
In contrast, the scene at Mount Zion is described as the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. Here, there are myriads of angels, the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, God the judge of all, and the spirits of the righteous made perfect. This scene conveys a sense of peace, worship, and communion with God, in contrast to the fear and trembling at Mount Sinai.
As the author of Hebrews paints this vivid picture, the readers are reminded of the superiority of the new covenant in Christ, which provides access to God’s presence and promises a kingdom that cannot be shaken. The scene serves as a powerful reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God’s presence and the privilege believers have to approach Him with confidence through Jesus Christ.
What is Hebrews 12:18 about?
The writer in Hebrews 12:18 uses powerful imagery to convey the importance of approaching God with reverence and awe. The phrase “consuming fire” symbolizes God’s holiness, power, and righteousness. Just like fire can consume everything in its path, God’s presence is all-encompassing and all-powerful. It reminds us that we are encountering a mighty and transcendent being who deserves our utmost respect and devotion. We, as believers, are called to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His majesty and sovereignty. We understand the need for humility and respect in our relationship with God by acknowledging Him as a consuming fire. This verse serves as a reminder of the sacredness of God’s presence and the importance of approaching Him with a sense of holy fear and awe. It challenges us to reflect on our attitude towards God and to cultivate a spirit of worship and reverence in our daily lives.
So, as we meditate on this verse, let us ask ourselves: Are we approaching God with the reverence and awe He deserves? Do we recognize His power and holiness in our lives? We should strive to cultivate a deep sense of respect and devotion towards God, approaching Him with humility and a heart full of awe for His consuming fire.
Understanding what Hebrews 12:18 really means
Hebrews 12:18 takes us back to a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites, a moment of awe and fear at Mount Sinai. Picture the scene: thunder, lightning, a thick cloud, and a deafening trumpet blast. The people trembled in the presence of God, a presence so overwhelming that it inspired both reverence and fear. This passage serves as a stark reminder of the holiness and power of God, characteristics that can evoke both wonder and trepidation in our hearts.
In juxtaposition to the fear-inducing experience at Mount Sinai, Hebrews 12:18 contrasts the old covenant with the new covenant ushered in by Jesus Christ. The old covenant was characterized by strict adherence to the Law, a system that instilled fear and emphasized human effort to attain righteousness. In contrast, the new covenant offers grace and mercy through Jesus, inviting believers into a relationship marked by love and forgiveness rather than fear and condemnation.
Consider the shift from a relationship based on fear to one rooted in love and grace. Think of a child who once feared a stern teacher but later finds a compassionate mentor who guides with kindness and understanding. The transformation is profound, turning fear into joy and fostering a deeper connection built on trust and love. Similarly, our relationship with God evolves from one of trembling before His holiness to one of approaching Him with reverence and gratitude, knowing that we are embraced by His grace.
The imagery in Hebrews 12:18 paints a vivid picture of the old covenant experience: a mountain ablaze with fire, shrouded in darkness, and engulfed in a storm. These elements symbolize the fear, separation, and awe-inspiring nature of encountering God under the old covenant. The tangible and terrifying aspects of this encounter serve as a stark contrast to the new covenant, where believers are welcomed into the presence of God with joy, celebration, and the assurance of Jesus as their mediator.
As we reflect on Hebrews 12:18 and its implications for our lives today, let us appreciate the profound shift from fear to grace, from trembling before a distant God to rejoicing in His presence. Let us approach God with reverence, gratitude, and a deep sense of awe at the transformative power of His love. May we embrace the new covenant with open hearts, knowing that we are no longer bound by fear but set free by the boundless grace of our Savior.
How can we approach God with reverence and awe?
Approaching God with reverence and awe involves recognizing His holiness, power, and majesty. It requires us to come before Him with a deep sense of respect and humility, acknowledging that He is the Almighty Creator of the universe. This reverence for God is rooted in an understanding of His greatness and our own unworthiness, prompting us to approach Him with a sense of wonder and awe.
One way to cultivate this reverent attitude towards God is through prayer and meditation on His Word. Spending time in prayer allows us to express our reverence for God and seek His guidance and wisdom. Meditating on scripture helps us to gain a deeper understanding of who God is and His perfect nature, which in turn deepens our sense of awe and respect for Him. We demonstrate our reverence and awe towards God by seeking to align our hearts with His will and surrendering ourselves to Him in prayer.
Additionally, living a life of obedience and holiness is a reflection of our reverence for God. We show our respect for His authority and sovereignty in our lives by striving to walk in righteousness and follow His commandments. This conscious effort to honor God in all aspects of our lives is a tangible expression of our reverence and awe towards Him.
Application
Let the words of Hebrews 12:18 light a fire within you, spurring you to seek a deeper connection with the divine. Imagine your spiritual journey as a path towards a mighty kingdom, where every step brings you closer to a profound understanding of God’s greatness. Embrace this opportunity to strengthen your bond with the divine with a heart full of respect and humility. Will you heed the call to embark on this sacred journey towards a stronger faith and deeper connection with Him?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.