ENDURE LIKE JESUS - ENDURE THROUGH JESUS
ENDURE LIKE JESUS - ENDURE THROUGH JESUS
Hebrews 12:1-29 In the wake of these great champions of faith and perseverance, the writer cites one further example of faith- the example of the Lord Jesus Christ himself. In what way is the example of Jesus superior to the testimony of Abraham, Moses, and the others inHebrews 11:1-40In terms of the fact that the Lord Jesus, in contrast to the faithful patriarchs and prophets, is more than an example of faith for us to follow. He also supplies the grace, strength, and assistance to enable us to endure. The patriarchs were examples, but Jesus is more than an example. He is also a means of our present strength and encouragement now.
Endure Through Jesus {Hebrews 12:1-2} The author now employs the familiar image of an athletic contest in which the runners in the arena would be surrounded by spectators in the ampitheater. Though he does not suggest by this imagery that the saints who have departed to heaven are now hovering about us watching our progress as heavenly spectators of what takes place in the earthly realm, yet figuratively, the champions of faith listed inHebrews 11:1-40} They must discard every impediment, including both excess body weight and all unnecessary clothing, that is, discard every excess and encumbrance that tends to impair mobility and weigh the runner down. Whatever the particular sin that entangles us, we must lay it aside. The race of faith, in other words, requires diligent self-discipline. {1 Corinthians 9:25-27}
Having cast off excess weights, the author urges the Hebrews to “run with patience.” Patience is hupomone (See SGreek: 5281. hupomone) upomonh, meaning endurance. It speaks of the determination to abide under difficulties in undaunted and steadfast endurance. The use of the word suggests that the Christian race is a marathon, a long-distance race.
(2) They must labor to remain undistracted- “Looking unto Jesus, the author and the finisher of our faith....” This is the great secret of endurance. The strength and resources to persevere in the race of faith come only through a fixed gaze on Jesus Christ. He, and He alone, is the source of our strength. The writer suggests the need to look to Him without distraction by the use of the word (See SGreek: 872. aphorao ) aforaw aphorao (’ looking’).Aphorao is a looking away from everything else in order to focus exclusively on one object. Only by fixating on Jesus Christ as the sole source of strength and help can anyone endure to the finish line. Distractions cost the runner precious time and energy.
Endure Like Jesus {Hebrews 12:2-4} Not only is the Lord Jesus the source of our strength, He is also the supreme example. In fact, He is the “author”i.e. pioneer and “finisher”i.e. perfecter of our faith. He, the founder of the Christian faith, has already blazed the trail of faith himself. Further, He finished His course. He completed His task. He endured!
What did He endure? He endured the cross, despising the shame. He endured the contradiction of sinners against Himself. Now He is set down at the right hand of God. Where is He now? Not in the grandstands, but in the dignitaries box, "sat down at the right hand of God." When the Hebrews face discouragement, the author wants them to think about Jesus. Look at your Savior and imitate His example, he says. Look to your Savior and draw from His strength. Endure like Him. Endure through Him. Keep your eyes on Jesus.
"Sometimes I feel discouraged and think my life in vain;
I’m tempted then to murmur and of my lot complain; But then I think of Jesus and all He’s done for me;
Then I cry ‘O Rock of Ages, Hide Thou me."