Contrast Between Sinai and Zion: Hebrews 12:18-24
“18) For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched and to a blazing fire, and to darkness and gloom and whirlwind, 19) and to the blast of a trumpet and the sound of words which sound was such that those who heard begged that no further word be spoken to them. 20) For they could not bear the command, “If even a beast touches the mountain, it will be stoned.” 21) And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, “I am full of fear and trembling.” 22) But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, 23) to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, 24) and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks better than the blood of Abel.” Hebrews 12:18-24 This text is making a contrast between Mount Sinai where the children of Israel stood before God to get the Ten Commandments and Mount Zion where Jesus is going to return for His church. Mount Sinai is described in Exodus 19. Jesus standing on Mount Zion is pictured in Revelation 14.
The first is a picture of fear and separation. The second is a picture of glory and acceptance. The first came with warning while the second came with invitation. The first was to Israel coming out of Egypt. The second is to His church coming out of tribulation.
We will devote more time to these verses over the next few days. In the meanwhile, please read and study this text. It is so deep and rich. My relationship with Jesus is built on Mount Zion. This captures my view of God.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoSer Global
