Fixing Our Eyes On Jesus: The Ultimate Example Of Faith Hebrews 12:2 Series

Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Faith Hebrews 12:2

Introduction:

As we gather today, let us turn our attention to Hebrews 12:2, where we find an exhortation to fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. In this passage, we discover the transformative power of focusing our gaze on Christ amidst life's trials and challenges. Let us delve into this scripture and uncover how it can lead us to a deeper, more vibrant faith.

Point 1: Jesus, the Pioneer of Our Faith (Hebrews 12:2a)

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith," (Hebrews 12:2a, NLT)

The writer of Hebrews urges believers to fix their gaze on Jesus, who is described as the author or pioneer of our faith. Jesus blazed the trail of faithfulness by His perfect life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection. He is the one who initiated and established our faith, setting an example for us to follow. By fixing our eyes on Him, we align our lives with His divine purpose and receive the strength to persevere in our own faith journey.

Philippians 2:5-8: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus... He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."

1 Peter 2:21: "For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps."

This verse emphasises Jesus' role as the trailblazer of our faith. He not only inaugurated the new covenant but also lived out the perfect example of faithfulness and obedience to God. By fixing our eyes on Him, we are inspired to follow His example, surrendering our lives to God's will and trusting Him in every circumstance.

Point 2: Jesus, the Perfecter of Our Faith (Hebrews 12:2b)

"...who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2b, NLT)

Not only did Jesus initiate our faith, but He also perfected it through His sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection. Despite the agony and shame of the cross, Jesus endured it all because of the joy set before Him—the joy of redeeming humanity and restoring fellowship with God. His victory over sin and death is the foundation of our faith, and His exaltation to the right hand of God's throne assures us of His authority and sovereignty.

Colossians 2:14-15: "He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross."

1 Corinthians 15:54-57: "Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?... But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ."

This portion of the verse highlights the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the cross. His willingness to endure suffering and shame demonstrates His love for humanity and His commitment to fulfilling God's plan of salvation. Through His sacrificial death, Jesus secured victory over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Point 3: Our Response: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us," (Hebrews 12:1, NLT)

In light of Jesus' example, the writer exhorts believers to throw off everything that hinders and to run with perseverance the race marked out for them. This requires an intentional effort to fix our eyes on Jesus, seeking His guidance, strength, and empowerment. By aligning our lives with His example and entrusting ourselves to His care, we can overcome obstacles and endure trials with unwavering faith.

1 Corinthians 9:24: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it."

Colossians 3:1-2: "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

This verse underscores the importance of living a life of faith and perseverance, despite the challenges and obstacles we may face. By fixing our eyes on Jesus, we gain the strength and endurance to run the race of faith with determination and steadfastness. Our focus on Christ enables us to overcome distractions and temptations, keeping our hearts and minds aligned with His will.