The writer encourages the Hebrews to find strength in God’s love and to continue their spiritual journey. They are urged to take the straight and even path, which will help others. It eliminates things that might cause them to stumble and ensures all can reach the end of the race together. Maintaining peaceful relationships is also emphasized, as this will make it easier to navigate both the journey and any hostile circumstances (Hebrews 12:12-14).
The Hebrews are warned to be vigilant, ensuring no one falls behind or gives up. Paul described the means of our watchfulness in his letter to the churches of Galatia:
“Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2).
The writer cautions against sin within the community that could cause others to falter. Specifically, he warns against a person who might become so engrossed in worldly desires that they abandon their faith and Christian birthright, just as Esau did.
Esau, in his moment of hunger, sold his birthright, showing how little he valued the promises of God. Later, despite his sorrow, Esau could not reclaim the blessings that were part of his birthright. His example serves as a warning which underscores the severity of turning away from God’s promises (Hebrews 12:15-17).
The inspired penmen of the letter to the Hebrew saints urges a careful watch to avoid giving up one’s birthright, particularly under the new covenant established through Christ. Unlike in the past, when God spoke through the patriarchs or on Mount Sinai and the people were too afraid to approach him, Christians now have direct access to God. At Sinai, the Israelites were so terrified by the awe-inspiring events that they begged to not hear God’s voice again (Exodus 19:16, 19; 20:1-7; 20:19). Even Moses was afraid (Hebrews 12:18-21).
In contrast, Christians are called to the heavenly throne of God, described as a joyful assembly of angels, where they can celebrate God’s praises (Revelation 5:11; 7:11-12). The assembly of the firstborn refers to the faithful saints, who will receive their birthright when Christ returns, as indicated by Luke 10:20 and Revelation 21:27. They will all receive just rewards before God’s throne (Hebrews 12:22-23). Just as Moses mediated for the people at Sinai, Christ is the mediator for his followers at God’s throne. It is through the blood of Jesus that Christians find mercy, not vengeance as with Abel’s blood (Hebrews 12:24-25).
The earth shook when God spoke at Sinai. The writer refers to a second shaking, as prophesied in Haggai 2:6-9, which is connected to the coming of the Messiah. This shaking symbolizes the removal of all things that are temporary, leaving only the eternal, unshakable things behind. Christ’s kingdom will be the only one to endure (Hebrews 12:26-27). The kingdom of fleshly Israel, established at Sinai, was shaken and removed with the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.
Christians now dwell in an unshakable kingdom. They are called to obey God in love so that they might receive God’s grace and remain in the kingdom. The writer emphasizes that this kingdom is already present, which challenges the idea of a future millennial reign, contrary to the teachings of premillennialism.
To remain in the unshakable kingdom, Christians must be obedient. Those who fall into disobedience will face God’s judgment (Hebrews 12:28-29).
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