How should the reverence in Hebrews 12:20 influence our approach to God's presence? The Scene at Sinai Hebrews 12:20: “For they could not bear what was commanded: ‘If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.’” - The command echoes Exodus 19:12-13, where God set boundaries around Sinai, underscoring His unapproachable holiness. - Even the accidental touch of a stray animal required death—no exceptions, no compromises. - The message: God is not casual; His presence demands awe. Why Such Severe Boundaries? - God’s holiness is absolute (Psalm 89:7; Leviticus 10:3). - Sinful humanity cannot survive unmediated exposure to divine glory (Exodus 33:20). - The boundary teaches reverence—recognizing the infinite gap between Creator and creature. Hebrews Connects Sinai to Our Worship Today Hebrews 12:28-29: “Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” The writer moves from the terror of Sinai to the privilege of Zion, yet keeps the same fire-imagery: - Grace has not diminished God’s holiness; it has provided safe access through Christ. - Reverence remains essential, now motivated by gratitude rather than dread. Balancing Awe and Access - Hebrews 4:16: “Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with confidence…” - Confidence is possible only because Jesus tore the veil (Matthew 27:51). - True confidence never cancels reverence; it deepens it. We draw near boldly because the cost was infinite. Practical Ways Reverence Shapes Our Approach 1. Preparation • Guard the heart before entering worship—confession, focus, surrender (Psalm 24:3-4). 2. Posture • Physical posture (kneeling, lifting hands) can reflect inward awe, reminding us we stand on “holy ground.” 3. Speech • Speak God’s name with weight, avoiding casual clichés; let words be few and thoughtful (Ecclesiastes 5:2). 4. Expectation • Approach gatherings and private prayer expecting to encounter a consuming fire who also calls Himself Father. 5. Obedience • Reverence without obedience is hollow; “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). Holiness in daily choices shows we take His presence seriously. Living Between Sinai and Zion - Remember Sinai’s warning: God’s holiness is lethal to sin. - Embrace Zion’s invitation: Christ’s blood grants fearless entrance. - Hold both truths together; the tension produces worship that is joyful yet trembling, intimate yet respectful, confident yet humble. |
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