NT Text: Hebrews 12:15
OT Source(s):
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): Analogy + Contrast
Significance: Warning against covenant rejection due to idolatry. In Deuteronomy, warns against turning to serve other gods. In Hebrews, warns against turning from new covenant. Bitter root defiles community. The Deuteronomic context involves an individual whose heart turns away to serve other gods, thinking "I shall be safe though I walk in the stubbornness of my heart." Such a person becomes a poisonous root affecting the whole community. In Hebrews, the warning addresses potential apostasy that would "defile many"—apostasy is never merely personal but threatens corporate holiness.