Running the Race of Faith

Hebrews 12:1 KJV 1900

1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Introduction

Good morning, church. Today, we are going to delve into Hebrews 12, a chapter that offers profound insights into our spiritual journey. It challenges us to persevere in faith, look to Jesus, embrace God’s discipline, support one another, and live in peace and holiness. Let’s open our Bibles to Hebrews 12 and read the first few verses together.

I. The Cloud of Witnesses (Hebrews 12:1)

Scripture: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”

Explanation:

The “cloud of witnesses” refers to the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11. These men and women of faith serve as testimonies to the power and endurance of faith. They are not mere spectators, but their lives and stories bear witness to the faithfulness of God.

Application:

Faith is the assurance and confidence in what we hope for, even though we cannot see it. It is a conviction based on the reality of God’s promises. The heroes of faith obtained a good report because they trusted God beyond what was visible.

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

God desires to make you a faith hero!

II. Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2-3)

Scripture: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.”

Explanation:

Jesus is the perfect example of faith and endurance. He is the “author and finisher” of our faith, meaning He initiates and completes it. Despite the suffering and shame of the cross, Jesus focused on the joy set before Him—the joy of fulfilling His Father’s will and redeeming us. Now, He is seated at the right hand of God, having triumphed over sin and death.

The term “author” in this context means the originator or pioneer. Jesus is the source of our faith. He initiates it by revealing Himself to us and calling us to follow Him. Our faith begins with a response to His invitation.

Application:

Recognize that your faith is not self-generated; it is a gift from Jesus. He is the one who opens our eyes to the truth and draws us to Himself. Reflect on your faith and acknowledge Jesus as the starting point. Have you responded to His call? Are you continually looking to Him as the source of your faith?

Keep your focus on Jesus in the midst of trials. When we fix our eyes on Jesus, we gain the strength to endure. He endured the cross for us; can we not endure our trials for Him? Draw strength from His example of perseverance. Remember, He is not just our example but also our helper.

III. The Discipline of the Lord (Hebrews 12:4-11)

Scripture: “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” (Hebrews 12:6)

Explanation:

God’s discipline is a sign of His love and our sonship. Just as earthly parents discipline their children out of love, our Heavenly Father disciplines us to mold us into His likeness. Discipline may seem painful at the moment, but it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Application:

Embrace God’s discipline as a transformative process. It is a mark of His love and our status as His children. Understand that discipline is for our benefit and growth. Ask yourself, how is God shaping me through His discipline? Am I willing to submit to His refining process?

IV. Strengthening the Weak (Hebrews 12:12-13)

Scripture: “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.”

Explanation:

These verses encourages us to support one another in faith. We are called to lift up those who are weary and strengthen those who are weak. By making straight paths for our feet, we help others to follow the path of righteousness and avoid stumbling.

What is your example to those around you? Does your life show forth the faith that leads others to Christ? We are all in this race of life but, a race run without faith is like running in place, going nowhere!

Application:

Be a source of encouragement and strength to fellow believers. We all go through seasons of weakness and weariness. How can you lift someone up today? Create an environment that fosters spiritual healing and growth. Let us build each other up in love and faith.

V. Pursuing Peace and Holiness (Hebrews 12:14-17)

Scripture: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:” (Hebrews 12:14)

Explanation:

We are called to live in peace with everyone and pursue holiness. Holiness is not optional; it is a requirement for seeing the Lord. The author warns against bitterness and immorality, using Esau as an example of someone who forfeited his birthright for momentary gratification.

The phrase “For he found no place of repentance” means that Esau was unable to reverse the consequences of his decision. Despite his sorrow and earnest seeking, the irreversible nature of his choice meant that he could not regain the blessing that was rightfully his. This serves as a powerful warning about the gravity of our decisions and the permanence of some consequences. Genesis 25:29-33.

Application:

Consider areas in your life where you might be facing consequences for past decisions. Are you genuinely seeking to change and make amends? Understand that while God offers forgiveness, some consequences may be irreversible. It’s essential to make wise choices that honor Him.

Strive for peace in your relationships. Are there conflicts you need to resolve? Seek holiness as a reflection of God’s character. Holiness involves setting ourselves apart from sin and dedicating ourselves to God. Examine your life and ask, what areas need purification?

VI. The Unshakable Kingdom (Hebrews 12:18-29)

Scripture: “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:” (Hebrews 12:28)

Explanation:

The chapter concludes with a powerful contrast between the terrifying encounter at Mount Sinai and the joyful assembly at Mount Zion. Unlike the temporary and shakable things of this world, we have received an unshakable kingdom. This should lead us to worship God with reverence and awe, recognizing His majesty and holiness.

There is a shaking coming! I can feel something coming in my spirit. God is about to shake America to the core. A divine shaking of everything on a notional scale down to our personal every day lives.

In Genesis, before the creation of the world, there was a chaotic and formless state. God’s Spirit moved over the waters, and a great transformation began. This is a precursor to how God can bring order and purpose out of chaos and shaking.

Haggai 2:7 speaks of God shaking the nations to bring about the fulfillment of His promises and to fill His house with glory. The shaking serves to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah and the manifestation of God’s glory.

Folks we are living in the last days!

Scripture: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5, KJV)

Perilous means: Dangerous or fraught with risk. Do you think we are now living in those times?

People are looking for stability in their lives. Can I tell that what is coming is going to be the most chaotic experience that we have ever seen or felt. I want to encourage you the as things get worse, know that the word of God is still our firm foundation! A kingdom that can not be shaken!

There are three things that I want to point out that we as christians need to know:

1. Awareness: Recognize that as conditions worsen, it is a sign of the times Jesus described. This awareness can help believers remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith.

2. Preparation: Understanding that these challenging times are prophesied encourages believers to prepare spiritually, seeking a deep and resilient faith to withstand moral and societal decay.

3. Action: Despite the worsening conditions, believers are called to live out their faith with integrity and love, being a light in a dark world. The decline in societal values highlights the need for Christians to actively demonstrate and share their faith.

Application:

Recognize that the shaking we experience is part of God’s preparation for greater things. It serves to purify, realign, and ready us for His purposes. How can you prepare your heart and life to receive God’s glory and fulfill His promises?

Be thankful for the stability and security in God’s kingdom. In a world full of uncertainties, we have an unshakable foundation in Christ. Serve God with reverence and awe. Let our worship be characterized by a deep sense of respect and honor for who God is.

Conclusion

Hebrews 12 calls us to run the race of faith with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus, embracing God’s discipline, encouraging one another, pursuing peace and holiness, and being grateful for the unshakable kingdom we have received.

Call to Action:

Reflect on your spiritual walk and make necessary adjustments to align with the teachings of Hebrews 12. Are there weights you need to lay aside? Do you need to refocus on Jesus? Embrace God’s discipline, strengthen those around you, pursue peace and holiness, and worship God with reverence.

Hebrews 12:1 KJV 1900

1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,