Hebrews 12:12-17 | What's the connection?

We have a very interesting connection that has led many to tremble before the Lord for fear that they may have gone too far in their own sin. The narrative takes us to Esau. If we go all the way back to Genesis and examine the story of Jacob and Esau, there is a moment where Esau is hungry and calls out for Jacob to bring him some food. Jacob tells him that he will if Esau will give up his inheritance to Jacob. Esau agrees and Jacob ultimately, through many deceptive means, obtains the inheritance and blessing that was supposed to go to Esau. When Esau sought it out, it was no longer there for him to have.

This lesson is one that pops up throughout the Scriptures. Do not be like those who exchange the promises of God for the satisfaction of the flesh. As we have undergone the multiple different reasons that someone of the original audience might walk away from the Lord, this one addresses the comforts of the flesh. Your flesh may be demanding something now, but is it worth the exchange of your souls?

The context here is talking about holiness unto the Lord. To be holy is to live like God. It is akin to righteousness. The writer of Hebrews just finished saying that without holiness, no one will see God. So is it worth that momentary satisfaction in exchange for holiness? Surely the answer is no. However, if one forsakes Christ and draws near to the flesh, how shall they be made holy? By no effort of their own, it is entirely by the blood of Jesus. The exhortation unto holiness then leads to a cleaving to Christ Jesus. Exchange not your inheritance in the Lord for the passing pleasures of sin.

What connection are you seeing?