How does Exodus 19:17 connect with Hebrews 12:18-24 about approaching God? Two Mountains—One God Exodus 19:17: “Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.” “You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that was burning with fire… But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God… to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” Sinai: Awe-Filled Distance • God descends in fire, thick cloud, thunder, and trumpet blast (Exodus 19:16, 18). • Boundaries are set—any who touch the mountain must die (Exodus 19:12-13). • The people stand “at the foot of the mountain,” fearful yet summoned. • The scene stresses God’s unapproachable holiness and the people’s need for mediation through Moses. Zion: Welcomed Near • Believers come to the heavenly Jerusalem, not a quaking earthly peak. • Hosts of angels, “the assembly of the firstborn,” and God the Judge are present—yet we are invited in. • Jesus, the “mediator of a new covenant,” replaces the limited access of Sinai with perpetual access through His blood (Hebrews 10:19-22; Ephesians 2:18). • The sprinkled blood “speaks a better word,” proclaiming forgiveness rather than judgment (Hebrews 12:24; 1 John 1:7). Key Connections • Same holy God: the fire of Sinai and the joy of Zion both reveal His character (Deuteronomy 4:24; Hebrews 12:29). • Same need for mediation: Moses prefigures Christ, the perfect mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). • Progression of covenants: Sinai’s law exposes sin; Zion’s grace answers it (Galatians 3:24-25). • From distance to nearness: the physical barrier at Sinai becomes spiritual boldness to “draw near” in Christ (Hebrews 4:16). Approaching God Today • Hold reverent awe—His holiness has not diminished. • Enter with gratitude—Christ’s blood grants access once denied. • Live in holiness—grace empowers obedience, not presumption (Titus 2:11-12). • Worship with confidence and joy—earthly fears give way to heavenly celebration (Psalm 95:6; Philippians 4:4). |
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