Hebrews 12:1-13
Introduction:
1. The writer now urges the readers to emulate the endurance of the faithful of old, likening it to finishing a race which demands enduring the Lord’s Fatherly discipline.
2. It begins and ends with the proper mindset, to which we turn our attention.
Discussion:
I. The Race (12:1-4)
A. The great cloud of witnesses (lit. ones testifying):
1. This indicates the triumphant of chapter 11.
2. The analogy is from the cheering crowds at the ancient games urging their athlete forth.
B. Shedding all impediments to running (esp. sin).
C. Looking to Jesus:
1. The heroes fixed their eyes on the promises and finished their course (11:13, 24-26).
2. We must fix our eyes on Jesus, who originated and perfects our faith as the supreme example.
D. Weighing our struggle over against His puts it in proper perspective and strengthens our resolve.
II. The Discipline (12:5-10)
A. Just as an endurance race demands discipline by the runner, so does our spiritual race.
B. Christian hardships can overwhelm us if we do not know their purpose (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4).
1. God’s discipline/chastisement demonstrates He is our heavenly Father (12:5-8).
2. Why reject our Father’s greater discipline after accepting the lesser from our fathers?
III. he Reward (12:11)
A. All discipline comes with temporary discomfort.
B. Yet, we accept that discomfort because of the benefits it yields (1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 2 Timothy 2:3-6).
C. The discipline of the Lord “…yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness…” if we allow it (12:11).
Conclusion:
1. With such assurance of final victory, we must perk up and press on (12:12-13).
2. May we make the paths straight with this knowledge that we all may finish our race.