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Hebrews 12:26
Verse
Context
An Unshakable Kingdom
25See to it that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if the people did not escape when they refused Him who warned them on earth, how much less will we escape if we reject Him who warns us from heaven? 26At that time His voice shook the earth, but now He has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth, but heaven as well.”27The words “Once more” signify the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that the unshakable may remain.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose voice then shook the earth - Namely, at the giving of the law on Mount Sinai; and from this it seems that it was the voice of Jesus that then shook the earth, and that it was he who came down on the mount. But others refer this simply to God the Father giving the law. Not the earth only, but also heaven - Probably referring to the approaching destruction of Jerusalem, and the total abolition of the political and ecclesiastical constitution of the Jews; the one being signified by the earth, the other by heaven; for the Jewish state and worship are frequently thus termed in the prophetic writings. And this seems to be the apostle's meaning, as he evidently refers to Hag 2:6, where this event is predicted. It may also remotely refer to the final dissolution of all things.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
then shook--when He gave the law on Sinai. now--under the Gospel. promised--The announcement of His coming to break up the present order of things, is to the ungodly a terror, to the godly a promise, the fulfilment of which they look for with joyful hope. Yet once more--Compare Notes, see on Hag 2:6; Hag 2:21-22, both of which passages are condensed into one here. The shaking began at the first coming of Messiah; it will be completed at His second coming, prodigies in the world of nature accompanying the overthrow of all kingdoms that oppose Messiah. The Hebrew is literally, "it is yet one little," that is, a single brief space till the series of movements begins ending in the advent of Messiah. Not merely the earth, as at the establishment of the Sinaitic covenant, but heaven also is to be shaken. The two advents of Messiah are regarded as one, the complete shaking belonging to the second advent, of which the presage was given in the shakings at the first advent: the convulsions connected with the overthrow of Jerusalem shadowing forth those about to be at the overthrow of all the God-opposed kingdoms by the coming Messiah.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And this word yet once more,.... Or as it is in Hag 2:6 "yet once it is a little while"; which suggests, that as something had been done already, so in a very little time, and at once, something very marvellous and surprising would be effected: and it signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made; which some understand of what will be done at Christ's coming to judgment; as the passing away of the heavens and the earth, which are things that are made, or created, by the power of God; when there will be a shaking of them, so as that they shall be removed, and pass away with a great noise; and so they interpret the next clause, of the permanency of the new heavens and the new earth, and of the immovable kingdom of glory, and the never fading inheritance of the saints; and of their fixed, unalterable, and unshaken state: but rather this is to be understood of Christ's coming to the destruction of Jerusalem; when there was an entire removal of the Jewish state, both political and ecclesiastical; and of the whole Mosaic economy; and of things appertaining to divine worship, which were made with hands, as the temple, and the things in it; and which were made to be removed; for they were to continue no longer than the time of reformation: and this removing of them designs the abolition of them, and entire putting an end to them; at which time, not only their civil government was wholly put down, but their ecclesiastic state also; for the place of their worship was destroyed, the daily sacrifice ceased, and the old covenant, and the manner of administering it, vanished away; and all the legal institutions and ordinances, which were abolished by the death of Christ, were no more performed in Jerusalem; the temple and temple service perishing together: that those things which cannot be shaken may remain: the kingdom and priesthood of Christ, which are everlasting; and the good things which come by him, as remission of sins, justification, adoption, sanctification, and the heavenly inheritance; as also the Gospel, and the doctrines and ordinances of it, baptism, and the Lord's supper, and the mode of Gospel worship; all which are to continue until Christ's second coming.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:26-27 shook the earth: Exod 19:18; Judg 5:5; Pss 68:8; 77:18. • “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also”: Quoting Hag 2:6, the author emphasizes that all of creation will be shaken and removed at the judgment at the end of the age (1 Cor 7:31; 2 Pet 3:10, 12; Rev 21:1).
Hebrews 12:26
An Unshakable Kingdom
25See to it that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if the people did not escape when they refused Him who warned them on earth, how much less will we escape if we reject Him who warns us from heaven? 26At that time His voice shook the earth, but now He has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth, but heaven as well.”27The words “Once more” signify the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that the unshakable may remain.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Heavenly Life) Seated in the Heavens
By Zac Poonen2.8K56:38MAT 6:31MAT 6:33GAL 3:29EPH 1:3EPH 2:6EPH 6:12COL 3:2COL 3:4HEB 11:13HEB 12:26This sermon emphasizes the importance of being heavenly-minded in a world filled with changes and uncertainties. It highlights the need to focus on eternal values rather than earthly possessions, urging believers to seek God's kingdom first and live in a way that reflects heavenly principles. The speaker encourages a shift in mindset towards heavenly things, allowing the Holy Spirit to renew thoughts and actions to align with God's will.
The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 8
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K38:22Divine PurposeNUM 22:1EZK 21:19EZK 21:27EZK 28:2HEB 12:26REV 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear understanding of God's purpose in our lives. He warns that if we lose sight of this purpose, our Christian life will suffer and we will be devastated. The purpose of God is to gather all things in Christ and have preeminence over everything. The speaker also discusses the rise and fall of world powers and how they are part of God's plan. He concludes by urging listeners to not become complacent or formal in their faith, but to continually seek God's purpose and live it out in their lives.
The Cup and the Fire - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.2K49:06Christian LifeLUK 12:49LUK 12:511CO 3:102CO 2:14HEB 12:261PE 1:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the testing of the Israelites' hearts during the 40 days and nights that Moses was on Mount Sinai. The Israelites failed this test when they engaged in idolatry and worshiped a golden calf. The speaker then transitions to the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus speaks about bringing division rather than peace on earth. The speaker explains that the coming of the Holy Spirit, symbolized by fire, brings judgment and tests the motives and intentions of people's hearts. This judgment extends to human relationships, as the fiery sword discerns the true nature of individuals.
The Desire of All Nations
By Chuck Smith1.2K36:27ISA 26:9MAT 24:21HEB 12:26REV 6:12This sermon focuses on the importance of aligning our priorities with God's kingdom, as seen in the book of Haggai where the people had lost focus and were urged to put God first. It delves into the prophesied cataclysmic events that will precede the second coming of Jesus, emphasizing the need to be spiritually prepared and ready for His return. The message highlights the significance of seeking God's righteousness above personal interests and the impending judgments that will lead people to turn back to God.
Our God Is a Consuming Fire
By G.W. North4791:30:02GodISA 33:6ISA 50:10HEB 2:11HEB 12:22HEB 12:262PE 1:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the book of Daniel. He highlights how God protected them in the fiery furnace and emphasizes that God is a consuming fire. The preacher then moves on to the topic of wars and conflicts, explaining that they stem from the desires and lusts within individuals. He emphasizes that Jesus Christ became a human being to bring forgiveness and a life and love union with God. The preacher concludes by emphasizing God's love for humanity and His desire for a complete and devoted relationship with each individual.
The Great Shaking - John 13-19 - Out of the Old Into the New Part 1
By Phil Beach Jr.341:07:21Christian LifeGod's DisciplineSpiritual GrowthHEB 12:26Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the necessity of spiritual pruning and shaking in the lives of believers, urging the congregation to recognize their frailty and the need for God's grace. He highlights that the current season is one of unprecedented shaking, designed to remove what is perishable and reveal what is eternal. The preacher calls for a heart transformation, encouraging believers to seek after God rather than earthly things, and to embrace the discipline of the Lord as a sign of His love. Ultimately, he stresses the importance of living in anticipation of the coming day of the Lord, where only that which cannot be shaken will remain.
Why Understanding the Biblical View of the End Times Is Important
By Mike Bickle191:06:59End TimesBiblical ProphecyISA 60:2MAT 24:33HEB 12:26Mike Bickle emphasizes the critical importance of understanding the biblical view of the end times, arguing that it is not a secondary theme but a vital issue for believers today. He warns of an impending perfect storm of escalating global crises, including financial, political, and moral challenges, and stresses that without a biblical context, many will be confused and misled. Bickle highlights the need for believers to be informed and engaged with the biblical narrative to respond with faith and hope, rather than fear and confusion. He calls for a generation of messengers who will boldly proclaim the truth of God's plan amidst the chaos, ensuring that the church is prepared for the challenges ahead. Ultimately, he encourages believers to take a stand and be part of God's unfolding story, as the glory of God will be revealed even in the midst of turmoil.
A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken
By Tom Macartney0PSA 18:1HAG 2:6MAL 3:1MAT 16:18ROM 8:17EPH 5:25HEB 12:26REV 21:2Tom Macartney preaches on the significance of God's promise to shake the heavens and the earth, emphasizing the removal of temporal things to reveal what is unshakable. He discusses the current state of the world, the professing church, and the believing church, highlighting the need for purification and discernment in these times of crisis and confusion. The sermon delves into the message of Haggai, connecting it to the building of God's eternal house, the church, and the importance of holiness and preparation for Christ's return. It concludes with a call to understand and embrace our role in God's unshakable kingdom, emphasizing the need for growth, grace, and readiness for His second coming.
Day 230, Hebrews 12
By David Servant0HEB 12:1HEB 12:6HEB 12:11HEB 12:14HEB 12:16HEB 12:26David Servant preaches about the spiritual journey being likened to a long-distance race, where we are cheered on by the heroes of faith and encouraged to fix our eyes on Jesus at the finish line. Endurance and laying aside sin and encumbrances are emphasized to reach the goal of being with Him forever. God's discipline is explained as a sign of His love, training us for holiness and righteousness, essential for seeing the Lord in heaven.
Joshua Chapter 17 the Millennial Inheritance
By A.B. Simpson0Millennial InheritanceFaith and ObedienceHEB 12:26A.B. Simpson explores the theme of millennial inheritance in 'Joshua Chapter 17 the Millennial Inheritance,' emphasizing the connection between the earthly Canaan and the heavenly inheritance promised to believers. He highlights that while Canaan was a land of conflict, heaven represents a place of ultimate victory and rest, free from adversaries. Simpson asserts that the true Joshua, Jesus Christ, will usher in this millennial glory, and only those who exhibit faith and obedience will inherit this promise. He encourages believers to prepare for the coming of the Lord, which will bring both conflict and victory, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of God's promises and the eternal presence of Christ as our inheritance.
The Approaching Great Shaking
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Coming JudgmentSpiritual GrowthHEB 12:26T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the prophetic warnings in the letter to the Hebrews regarding a future great shaking that will test the foundations of faith and reveal the true nature of spiritual life in Christ. He argues that this shaking is necessary to remove what is unshakable and to establish a kingdom that cannot be moved, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of Christ as the standard of judgment. Sparks warns against the dangers of conforming Christianity to worldly standards and the illusion of success, urging believers to seek genuine spiritual depth rather than mere outward appearances. He calls for a return to waiting upon God and discerning His methods, as the shaking will reveal the true essence of faith and the presence of Christ in our lives. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a call to spiritual vigilance and growth in the face of impending trials.
Returning From the Captivity
By C.I. Scofield0ISA 40:8JER 25:11JER 29:10HEB 12:26C.I. Scofield preaches on the return of Israel from captivity, highlighting the divine imperative and immutability of the written Word of God, specifically the prophetic word. The lesson focuses on the fulfillment of explicit prophecies, emphasizing the literal fulfillment of predictions with exactness and the certainty of future events coming to pass as foretold in Scripture.
What Is the Church, and What Are the Churches?
By T. Austin-Sparks0Revelation of ChristNature of the ChurchJHN 1:13ACT 20:27EPH 1:17HEB 12:26T. Austin-Sparks addresses the essential nature of the Church, emphasizing that it is not a mechanical system to be replicated but a living expression of Christ. He highlights the dissatisfaction among believers due to the poor state of many churches and the need for a deeper understanding of the Church's true vocation, which is to embody Christ. Sparks argues that the Church is born from a revelation of Christ through the Holy Spirit, and its existence is not based on human organization but on spiritual birth. He warns against the dangers of legalism and the confusion of Christianity with the true Church, urging believers to focus on Christ to understand the Church's purpose. Ultimately, the Church's function is to bring Christ into every location, serving as His body on earth.
July 1. 1678.
By Jane Lead0JOS 1:91CO 3:111CO 15:42EPH 2:22HEB 12:26Jane Lead preaches about the call to be strong and courageous in the Lord's might, drawing parallels to the deliverance from Egypt and the future shaking of the heavens and earth. She emphasizes the foundation of the Temple being God and the Lamb, pointing to a new Temple-Body that will be raised up by God's power alone, distinguishing the chosen ones. This new body will be formed by the divine breath, free from corruption, leading to the inhabitants of the Eternal Canaan being the glory and strength of it, united under Christ their Head.
Some Queries Concerning the Work of God in the World
By Isaac Penington0PSA 2:10ISA 2:11LUK 18:8HEB 12:26REV 11:15REV 14:6REV 18:4Isaac Penington preaches about the queries concerning the work of God in the world, focusing on the kingdoms of the earth becoming the kingdoms of the Lord, the expected events in the latter ages, and the need for nations to submit to God's laws and righteousness. He questions whether the current generation is ready for the Son of man's rule and emphasizes the importance of seeking righteousness and meekness. Penington warns England about the consequences of opposing God's work and advises the powers and people of the nation to align with God's truth and righteousness to avoid His judgment.
Men's Petty Kingdoms
By Art Katz0Radical CommitmentKingdom Of GodHEB 12:26Art Katz emphasizes the urgent need for the church to recognize the distinction between the petty kingdoms of men and the Kingdom of God. He calls for a radical commitment to cross over into a new reality, shedding earthly ambitions and traditions that hinder spiritual growth. Katz warns that only the kingdom that cannot be shaken will endure, urging believers to enter the waters of repentance and separation to truly encounter the Son of God. He highlights the importance of being in the Son and the necessity of a new quality of life that reflects God's glory. The sermon concludes with a call to action for those willing to follow God's leading into this transformative journey.
The Holy Spirit Is at Work
By David Wilkerson0EvangelismThe Work of the Holy SpiritISA 65:1JOL 2:28HAG 2:7ACT 2:17HEB 12:26David Wilkerson emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is actively working beyond the confines of the church, reaching out to both believers and nonbelievers alike. He highlights that the Spirit convicts of sin, comforts the broken, and is present in every situation, even in the most challenging circumstances. The Holy Spirit is portrayed as the leading evangelist, bringing life to those lost in sin and inspiring dreams and visions in the hearts of sinners. Wilkerson encourages Christians to expand their understanding of the Spirit's work and to trust in His power to transform lives. Ultimately, the message is a call to recognize and participate in the Holy Spirit's mission to reach all of humanity.
The House Not Made With Hands
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual MaturityThe House of GodHEB 12:26T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the 'House Not Made With Hands' in his sermon, illustrating the contrast between the transient earthly systems and the eternal spiritual realities represented in Christ. He explains that the shaking of the old covenant system foreshadows the establishment of a new, unshakable kingdom, urging believers to focus on the spiritual truths that endure beyond physical representations. Sparks highlights the necessity of the House of God for spiritual maturity, where believers are trained and held accountable in mutual responsibility, contrasting it with mere congregational gatherings. He calls for recognition of the spiritual order within the House, where every member plays a vital role in the growth and development of the Body of Christ. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a reminder to seek the eternal and unshakable aspects of faith amidst the temporal distractions of the world.
The Millennial Inheritance
By A.B. Simpson0Heavenly InheritanceSecond Coming Of ChristHEB 12:26A.B. Simpson emphasizes the contrast between the earthly Canaan and the heavenly inheritance, highlighting that while Canaan was a land of conflict, heaven is a place of peace and fulfillment. He explains that the true inheritance awaits believers at the second coming of Christ, where they will receive their rewards for faith and obedience. Simpson encourages the faithful to persevere through trials, assuring them that their struggles will not be in vain, as they will be rewarded in the millennial kingdom. He concludes by affirming that the ultimate inheritance is the presence of Christ Himself, which will bring eternal joy and fulfillment to believers.
2 Peter 3:10
By John Gill0Preparedness for JudgmentThe Second ComingISA 65:17MAT 24:44LUK 2:82CO 5:17GAL 4:31TH 5:22TH 1:7HEB 12:262PE 3:10REV 20:11John Gill emphasizes the certainty and suddenness of the Lord's return, likening it to a thief coming in the night, which signifies an unexpected and unannounced arrival. He explains that this event will bring about the passing away of the heavens and the earth, purging them through fire, and that all earthly works will be consumed. Gill also notes that this prophecy was known not only to the Jews but also to various philosophers and poets of the time, indicating its significance across cultures. He suggests that while some interpretations may refer to the destruction of Jerusalem, the ultimate meaning points to the final judgment and renewal of creation. The sermon serves as a reminder of the urgency to be prepared for the Lord's return.
Prophecy Spiritually Understood - Pt 6 "No Third Temple"
By Charles Alexander0HAG 2:6MAL 3:1ACT 2:19HEB 12:26The preacher delves into Ezekiel's vision of the new temple, emphasizing that the promise of another temple after the destruction of Jerusalem's temple was not fulfilled in Ezra's temple or any subsequent temple. The vision of Ezekiel provides a spiritual understanding, symbolizing Christ's eternal priesthood and sacrifice, abolishing the need for a physical temple. The prophecy of Haggai points to the fulfillment of God's purposes in Christ through the second temple. The preacher refutes the idea of a third temple in Jerusalem, highlighting that Christ's first advent fulfilled prophecies and established the gospel kingdom. The sermon challenges literal interpretations of Ezekiel's temple, advocating for a spiritual understanding that aligns with the New Covenant and the gospel message.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose voice then shook the earth - Namely, at the giving of the law on Mount Sinai; and from this it seems that it was the voice of Jesus that then shook the earth, and that it was he who came down on the mount. But others refer this simply to God the Father giving the law. Not the earth only, but also heaven - Probably referring to the approaching destruction of Jerusalem, and the total abolition of the political and ecclesiastical constitution of the Jews; the one being signified by the earth, the other by heaven; for the Jewish state and worship are frequently thus termed in the prophetic writings. And this seems to be the apostle's meaning, as he evidently refers to Hag 2:6, where this event is predicted. It may also remotely refer to the final dissolution of all things.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
then shook--when He gave the law on Sinai. now--under the Gospel. promised--The announcement of His coming to break up the present order of things, is to the ungodly a terror, to the godly a promise, the fulfilment of which they look for with joyful hope. Yet once more--Compare Notes, see on Hag 2:6; Hag 2:21-22, both of which passages are condensed into one here. The shaking began at the first coming of Messiah; it will be completed at His second coming, prodigies in the world of nature accompanying the overthrow of all kingdoms that oppose Messiah. The Hebrew is literally, "it is yet one little," that is, a single brief space till the series of movements begins ending in the advent of Messiah. Not merely the earth, as at the establishment of the Sinaitic covenant, but heaven also is to be shaken. The two advents of Messiah are regarded as one, the complete shaking belonging to the second advent, of which the presage was given in the shakings at the first advent: the convulsions connected with the overthrow of Jerusalem shadowing forth those about to be at the overthrow of all the God-opposed kingdoms by the coming Messiah.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And this word yet once more,.... Or as it is in Hag 2:6 "yet once it is a little while"; which suggests, that as something had been done already, so in a very little time, and at once, something very marvellous and surprising would be effected: and it signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made; which some understand of what will be done at Christ's coming to judgment; as the passing away of the heavens and the earth, which are things that are made, or created, by the power of God; when there will be a shaking of them, so as that they shall be removed, and pass away with a great noise; and so they interpret the next clause, of the permanency of the new heavens and the new earth, and of the immovable kingdom of glory, and the never fading inheritance of the saints; and of their fixed, unalterable, and unshaken state: but rather this is to be understood of Christ's coming to the destruction of Jerusalem; when there was an entire removal of the Jewish state, both political and ecclesiastical; and of the whole Mosaic economy; and of things appertaining to divine worship, which were made with hands, as the temple, and the things in it; and which were made to be removed; for they were to continue no longer than the time of reformation: and this removing of them designs the abolition of them, and entire putting an end to them; at which time, not only their civil government was wholly put down, but their ecclesiastic state also; for the place of their worship was destroyed, the daily sacrifice ceased, and the old covenant, and the manner of administering it, vanished away; and all the legal institutions and ordinances, which were abolished by the death of Christ, were no more performed in Jerusalem; the temple and temple service perishing together: that those things which cannot be shaken may remain: the kingdom and priesthood of Christ, which are everlasting; and the good things which come by him, as remission of sins, justification, adoption, sanctification, and the heavenly inheritance; as also the Gospel, and the doctrines and ordinances of it, baptism, and the Lord's supper, and the mode of Gospel worship; all which are to continue until Christ's second coming.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:26-27 shook the earth: Exod 19:18; Judg 5:5; Pss 68:8; 77:18. • “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also”: Quoting Hag 2:6, the author emphasizes that all of creation will be shaken and removed at the judgment at the end of the age (1 Cor 7:31; 2 Pet 3:10, 12; Rev 21:1).