By R. Larry Overstreet
We
cannot stop there, however, since position leads to responsibility, the subject
of Hebrews 12:25-29. Our first responsibility is to listen to God, which leads
to obeying God. The sad reality is that Old Testament Israel too often "refused"
to listen and obey His voice, and His judgment came upon them. People today
will also experience His judgment if they refuse to obey His Word. A time is
coming when his voice will "shake" earth and heaven alike. Why will
He do this?
Several
years ago my family owned a dog, a "German Shepherd mix." He was a
good dog, but unusual in one respect: he did not like to go swimming. Whenever
we coaxed him into the water, he'd come out as quickly as he could and thoroughly
"shake" the water off himself. That water was useless to him, and
he desired to rid himself of it. In a similar manner, God will "shake"
off earth and heaven; they are useless to Him.
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This
earthly creation will perish, but we are assured of participating in God's eternal
kingdom. That assurance motivates us not only to listen to God but also to be
faithful in serving Him. As we come before Him with reverence and a wholesome
regard for His character, our service is "acceptable," well-pleasing,
in His sight.
Finally,
the writer challenges us to practice remembering God. He is "our God,"
not someone else's. As a consuming fire, He burns up all that is unfit to abide
in His presence. If our works are done in the power of our human flesh, rather
than in reverence and awe, they will be burned up in His presence. When we recall
what great things He has done for us, we can be confident in His presence. That
confidence leads us to practice gladly the life which will please Him.
_______________________
Sermon
brief provided by: R. Larry Overstreet, Professor of Pastoral Theology, Northwest Baptist
Seminary, Tacoma, WA.