Chapter 12
-The great cloud of witnesses refers back to the saints that
have gone before in the faith walk. Because we have this great cast of
witnesses we need to lay aside every encumbrance (priority issues, not
necessarily sinful things, but things that impede our spiritual progress), and
the sin which can entangle us. We are instructed to run with endurance the race
(it’s a marathon, not a sprint) that is set before us, fixing our eyes on
Jesus, who is the author (originator, founder) and perfecter (completer,
finisher) of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2). The joy of reconciliation and glory
ahead allowed Him to endure the cross and all of its suffering and shame
(Hebrews 12:2b). *Application* We are told to consider Christ and His endurance
and faithfulness for the purpose of not growing weary and not losing heart
(Hebrews 12:3). Life can be difficult with all kinds of tribulations and tests,
but we must look to Christ and His example to carry on. Because He garnered the
victory, we can look ahead as well and know that He is working all things
together for the good to those who love Him and are called according to His
purpose (Romans 8:28).
-Discipline is the topic for consideration as the chapter
develops. We are not to take lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor faint when
reproved by Him (Hebrews 12:5). His discipline is a sign of His love for us and
that He receives us as children to produce holiness (Hebrews 12:6-10). “All
discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those
who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of
righteousness (Hebrews 12:11).” In light of this, we are to straighten up and
strengthen up where we are feeble for the purpose of God’s healing in our lives
(Hebrews 12:12-13). We are to “pursue peace with all men, and the
sanctification (growth, and being set apart) without which no one will see the
Lord (Hebrews 12:14).” If we do not live a disciplined life accepting the fruit
of God’s righteousness we will not enjoy God’s grace and a root of bitterness
could spring up causing trouble and the defilement of many (Hebrews 12:15).
*Application* Don’t give away your reward! Stay strong in the Lord even when He
may chastise you or seem to forsake you. Don’t be a sell out like Esau (Hebrews
12:16-17).
-Our Mount Zion and city of God is the heavenly Jerusalem
because of Jesus, the mediator of a New Covenant with sprinkled blood, which
speaks better than the blood of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24). Don’t refuse Him. If
we do neglect His plan, we will not inherit the promises. If we abide in Him,
we will receive the unshakeable Kingdom as we offer our lives by faith with
reverence, awe, and gratitude, for our God is a consuming fire (Hebrews
12:25-29). *Application* The point is this: Let God consume you with His holy
fire for purification and redemption. Receive His Kingdom and all the
discipline and duty it entails. Not receiving Christ as your Savior will end up
putting you in the lake of fire for a wrathful consumption (Revelation 20:10-15).
I don’t think any of us have any time for that! (Don’t you love the Sweet Brown
referenceJ)
Verses to memorize-
Hebrews 12:1-2, 11, 28-29
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