You cannot live on two mountains at the same time.

Hebrews 12 describes Mount Sinai, where God gave the Law. It was a place of blackness, darkness, and tempest. It burned with fire. If even an animal touched the mountain, it was killed.

When you try to mix Law and Grace, you step back onto Sinai. You feel the weight of condemnation return.

But that is not where you live anymore.

“But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels...” Hebrews 12:22

Mount Zion is the mountain of Grace. You find no darkness here, only myriads of angels. God is present as the Judge who declares you righteous. Jesus stands as the Mediator of the new covenant.

Stop trying to mix the two. You have left the mountain of gloom. You have arrived at the celebration.

Your address has changed; don't go back to the old neighborhood.