Hebrews 12:18-29 | What's the connection?

Perspective is everything. This passage is a connection that brings perspective to the original audience. As we zoom out and look at the purpose of the book of Hebrews, we see that it is to show them how Jesus is better. It is also to show the consequences of leaving the faith, but then the incredible reward of remaining and enduring.

In a broader context, the writer to the Hebrews is speaking of an important moment in Israel's history. This was the place where the Mosaic covenant was established for the people of Israel. They had just come out of Egypt, delivered by the Lord and are now at the base of Mount Sinai where Moses heads up to get the Law from God. The tribes and elders that heard the voice of God trembled so much that they begged to not hear from God lest they be consumed. So Moses was the one who would intercede on behalf of the people. Given that this mountain was consecrated and God's presence was manifest on it, that which was unholy could not approach.
 
All of this was reiterated to the audience of Hebrews to emphasize the point of just how good Mount Zion is. Because of Jesus, our new mediator, we approach a heavenly Kingdom. But in the greatest of that reward, there is a great fear that comes with it. To those who refused the Lord at Mount Sinai, their consequence was a physical death. What would be said of those who refuse the Lord of something much greater than Sinai? The connections point us to a terrifying answer. See then that you do not refuse His voice.

What connections are you seeing?