Hebrews 12 - Introduction

LET US RUN WITH PATIENCE

-- Hebrews 12:1-29 --

Hebrews 12:1-29 is the chapter that really begins to make application of what has been learned concerning the priesthood of Jesus. This chapter provides motivation to run with perseverance the Christian race. Now that we have learned what saving faith is all about, we must make application of those teachings to our life.

The Old Testament worthies of Hebrews 11:1-40 are listed as "witnesses" to encourage these brethren to faithful service to God. The Hebrew writer points these brethren to Jesus as the greatest example of one who was faithful to God. Christians can also look to Him for help to persevere in the Christian life. Christ bore all the trials and temptations which came His way. He remained faithful to God, faithful even to His death on the cross.

Jesus did what these Hebrew brethren had not done. He "resisted unto blood, striving against sin." (Hebrews 12:4) He wanted them to understand that their trials and chastisement would work out for their own good. These sufferings should bring them closer to the Lord. These were God's sons and He was trying to help them reach their goal -- Heaven. Thus, they should bear their trials, with patience, as they wait for that heavenly reward.

Faithfulness should mark every Christian life. Those who fail are like Esau. When Esau had lost the blessing it was impossible to recover it, though he sought it earnestly with tears. We should persevere because of the nature of the dispensation that we live under. This new dispensation is designed to encourage and to win the heart of mankind for God. What a privilege we now enjoy! It would be a horrible thing to renounce Christ and His gospel and thus turn back. This is true because, our "God is a consuming fire." (Hebrews 12:29)