Returning to the illustration of a race (12:1-30), the writer challenges the believers to “strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.” Although many of his readers had experienced persecution and trials from not following the Levitical system of worship (Judaism), he knew that they could endure and finish the race (12:12). He knew they could do it! As they are running this race, they must “pursue peace with all people, and holiness” because through their examples unbelievers will see the characteristics by which Christians live their lives (12:14). Believers must be careful about the way they live their lives because others are watching. In verses 15-17 the writer of Hebrews specifically addresses those readers who still have not made a heart commitment to Jesus Christ by warning them about continuing hardness the grows in a heart when a person continually rejects the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for sin. He points to Esau (see Genesis 25:29-34; 27:1-39) who wanted God’s blessing, but did not want God Himself. Although Esau cried out for the blessing, he was rejected because of the hardness of his heart (12:16-17). Verses 18-29 provide another illustration of those who have exposure to the truth of God, but reject Him with their heart. As Moses was about to be given the law on Mt. Sinai, the people experienced the presence of God beginning with thunderings and lightnings as He was welcomed in with a blasting of a trumpet. The people feared and trembled (Exodus 19:16-19) at His presence, but now the Hebrews were being given the opportunity to approach God through the perfect blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ. There was no need to fear being in the presence of God based on the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross which permanently removed sin. The writer of Hebrews warns his readers not to be like Esau or the nation of Israel, but rather turn to Jesus Christ and avoid the punishment on those who reject His sacrifice. In these verses the author of Hebrews addresses two groups of people. First, he challenges the believers to endure trials and persecution; however, he invites those who have not made up their mind about Jesus Christ to strongly consider Him as the only sacrifice for sin!
Dear God, help me to endure trials and also pray for those who need to decide to follow You.
