How To Run With Endurance
Introduction: The writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews compares Christian life to a great race prepared by God we should engage.
I. The RACE We Are Facing
1. The AUDIENCES
*verse 1a, (we are SURROUNDED by triumphant SAINTS)
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses."
2. The ATTITUDE
*verse 1b, (get RID of sin and face the RACE)
"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."
II. The ROLE Model To Be Imitated
1. WHO He is
*verse 2a, (the LORD Jesus, our pattern for LIVING)
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith."
2. WHAT He did
*verse 2b.& 3a, (He is DETERMINED to save us by DYING on the cross)
"Who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men."
3. WHY He did
*verse 3b, (setting us an EXAMPLE of ENDURING)
"So that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
4. WHERE He is
*verse 2c, (He is in HEAVEN being HOPEFUL for us)
"And sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
III. The RENEWAL From The Lord
1. The STRENGTHENING of faith
*verse 12, (through His PRECEPTS and PRAYER)
"Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees."
2. The SUSTENANCE from God
*verse 13, (through REPENTANCE and RIGHTEOUS living)
“Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed."
Conclusion: The race in life we are facing has hardships, but great reward awaits for us. And as we run, the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ provides us safe crossing into eternity.
