Hebrews 12:12-29
Introduction:
1. Knowing the challenges ahead, we must focus on the pursuit of God’s priorities.
2. This section addresses the what, the why, and the how of those priorities.
Discussion:
I. What We Pursue
A. They were to strengthen the weak and clear the path to enable these pursuits (vv. 12-13.
B. Peace and holiness are the central aims of the Christion race described (vs. 14; Matthew 5:8-9; Romans 5:1-2; 12:17-18; Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 5:5).
II. Why We Pursue It
A. Succumbing to bitterness in trials results in:
1. Becoming spiritually disjointed (vv. 12-13)
2. Failing to obtain His grace (vs. 15)
3. Restraint from His presence due to defilement (vv. 15-17; Matthew 5:8-9; John 14:23-24).
B. Through Christ’s mediation, they drew much closer:
1. Moses and Israel came to Sinai fearful and held at a distance (vv. 18-21).
2. At Zion (in Christ), they have close fellowship with Him and all His hosts (vv. 22-24).
III. How We Pursue It
A. With so much to anticipate, how do we get there?
B. Thankfully, the process is easy to grasp:
1. Hear Him (vv. 25-27; Deuteronomy 18:15-19; Matthew 17:5; Acts 3:22-23).
2. With gratitude (12:28; Colossians 3:15-17).
3. With reverence and awe (vv. 28; 5:7).
Conclusion:
1. Anyone inclined to downplay the imperative of this pursuit should read 12:29 slowly, while likewise looking back to 10:26-31.
2. Though life’s trials can be scary, painful, discouraging, etc., they all pale in comparison to the danger of quitting on the race set before us.
3. We have blessings like no people in history since the fall in the garden.
4. This is why we never give up our pursuit of peace and holiness!