In this verse, the author of Hebrews recalls the momentous occasion when God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai. The mountain was so sacred that even touching it was forbidden, underlining the divine holiness and the seriousness of God's law. The command that even an animal touching the mountain must be stoned to death underscores the absolute purity and reverence required in God's presence. This historical reference serves to illustrate the awe and fear that characterized the old covenant, where God's holiness was unapproachable without strict adherence to the law.
For Christians, this sets the stage for understanding the new covenant through Jesus Christ. Unlike the old covenant, where fear and separation were prevalent, the new covenant offers a relationship with God based on grace and love. Jesus, as the mediator, allows believers to approach God with confidence and assurance. This transition from fear to grace is central to the Christian faith, highlighting the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice and the access it grants to God's presence. The verse thus invites reflection on the nature of God's holiness and the profound change brought by Christ.