Understanding God’s Invitation from Fear to Family
Have you ever felt like there’s a huge barrier between you and God—like you have to be perfect, or else? The Bible talks about this feeling using the picture of two mountains in Hebrews 12:18-29: Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. Let’s break down what these mountains mean. They illustrate the difference between a relationship with God based on fear and one based on love.
Mount Sinai: The Mountain of Rules and Fear
Imagine standing at the bottom of a mountain that’s covered in dark clouds, rumbling thunder, flashes of lightning, and fire. This was Mount Sinai, where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments. Back then, God’s presence was so intense and overwhelming that the people were actually terrified. They were told not to go near the mountain or even touch it, because it was that holy and dangerous. It was all about following the rules—if you broke them, the consequences were harsh. Even the bravest people felt unworthy and scared, knowing they could never be “good enough” on their own.
Mount Zion: The Mountain of Grace and Welcome
But now, the writer of Hebrews says that things have changed. Instead of coming to a scary, blazing mountain, we’re invited to Mount Zion. This isn’t a physical mountain, but a symbol for God’s new way, made possible by Jesus. Here, the atmosphere is completely different. Mount Zion is about being welcomed like family. It’s not because we’ve done everything right. It’s because Jesus opened the door for us.
At Mount Zion, there’s forgiveness, kindness, and a sense that everyone belongs. We get to come close to God. We are confident that we’re accepted. This is not because of our own efforts but because of what Jesus has done for us.
What’s the Big Difference?
Hebrews 12 uses these two mountains to show the difference between two ways of relating to God:
- The Old Way (Mount Sinai): All about rules. You had to do everything just right, and messing up meant punishment. People kept their distance because of fear.
- The New Way (Mount Zion): It’s about grace and forgiveness. Jesus makes it possible for us to come close, no matter our past. We’re welcomed as part of God’s family, with open arms.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
- We don’t have to be afraid of God anymore. We can come to Him as we are, knowing He loves us and wants us close.
- Respect, not fear. We still take God seriously, but our motivation is love and thankfulness, not terror.
- Grace to help us live well. God calls us to live good lives, but gives us the strength and forgiveness we need when we fall short.
- Don’t ignore the invitation. God’s offer of love and forgiveness is the best gift we could ever get. Turning it down would be missing out on something amazing.
- It’s not about earning God’s love. Our relationship with God is built on what Jesus did for us—not on being perfect rule-followers.
The Bottom Line
Hebrews 12:18-29 reminds us that, thanks to Jesus, the old way of fear and punishment is gone. Now, we’re invited to live with confidence, joy, and gratitude as part of God’s family. We’re called to respect God. We should accept His invitation. We are encouraged to enjoy the grace and love that come with being a beloved child.
If you ever wonder how God feels about you, remember: you’re not at the foot of a scary mountain anymore. You’re welcomed home.
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Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 