Introduction: Two Mountains, Two Covenants
In Hebrews 12:18-24, we see a powerful comparison between two mountains that represent two covenants: Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. Mount Sinai symbolizes the Old Covenant, given with thunder, fire, and trembling fear. It represents the law, where obedience brings blessings but disobedience brings curses and death. The people trembled, unable to bear God’s presence.
In contrast, Mount Zion, the heavenly city of God, symbolizes the New Covenant—a covenant of grace. This is where we find joy, forgiveness, and a loving relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
The Old Covenant: Rooted in Fear
The Old Covenant emphasized God’s holiness and the people’s sinfulness, showing humanity’s inability to fully obey the law. At Mount Sinai, the people were gripped by terror. Fear of God’s wrath dominated their relationship with Him. This was not a healthy respect but a paralyzing fear rooted in the consequences of sin.
The New Covenant: Rooted in Love
Hebrews 12 describes how we have come to a new reality through Jesus, the mediator of the New Covenant. At the Last Supper, Jesus declared, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, poured out for you” (Luke 22:20). His blood speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. While Abel’s blood cried out for justice, Jesus’ blood cries out for mercy and forgiveness, even for those who caused His death.
This covenant is founded on grace, not fear. It doesn’t nullify God’s law but fulfills it in love. Through Jesus, we experience pardon, peace, and the cleansing of our consciences, enabling us to serve God with joy, not dread.
God’s Love: The Heart of the New Covenant
The New Covenant reveals God’s incredible love. 1 John 4:16 says, “God is love.” In Christ, we move from fearing God to trusting His love. While fear might initially draw us to seek safety, encountering Jesus transforms that fear into love and trust.
Conclusion: Living in Grace
The Old Covenant showed the seriousness of sin; the New Covenant shows the overwhelming power of grace. Jesus bridged the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity, replacing fear with love and judgment with mercy. Let’s live as people of Mount Zion, rejoicing in the love of God, secured by the blood of Jesus.
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