The Challenge Before Us As Believers

Introduction

After giving us the “Roll Call of Heroes” in Hebrews 11, the writer moves to a personal challenge for our lives. This is likened unto the “Race of Life or of Faith.” Race began at salvation, continues today in sanctification, and one day will end (glorification).

I. WE NEED TO COMMIT OURSELVES TO THIS CHALLENGE 1-3

How?

A. Recognize Our Burdensome Weights 1

Encumbrances that take away spiritual sensitivity in our hearts. It may be perfectly legitimate but it takes the edge off our spiritual lives.

1. It cuts away our hunger to know God better.

2. It takes away our desire to be obedient to the will and purpose of God.

3. It holds us back.

4. It is a weight.

5. They dissipate our spiritual desires.

GREAT TRUTH:

God never removes anything from our lives unless He gives us something better to replace our loss.

God is not a TAKER. He is a GIVER.

B. Recognize Our Besetting Sins

“easily ensnares us” – it wraps around us like a vine that climbs a tree and wraps itself around it.

Proverbs 28:13 - “He who covers his sins will not prosper,

But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”

C. Run With Patience 1

“endurance” – reach the goal set before us.

1. There needs to be an intensity about running.

2. It requires energy.

3. We have to set our sights on our goal.

4. Run with enthusiasm and expectation.

5. We have a goal to pursue.

II. WE NEED TO CONSIDER OUR EXAMPLE 2-3

“Looking unto Jesus” –

Jesus Christ is the Pattern for our lives.

Jesus Christ gives the proper Perspective on life.

Jesus Christ leads the Procession as author of life.

Jesus Christ is the Perfector of our faith.

A. The Judgement He Received

“He endured the cross, despised the shame”

B. The Joy He Showed

“who for the joy that was set before Him”

C. The Job He Completed

“has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God”

III. WE NEED TO CORRECT OUR WAYS WHEN HE CHASTENS 4-11

A. He Chastens To Assure Us Of His Love. 4-6

B. He Chastens To Assure Us Of Our Sonship. 7

C. He Chastens To Assure Us of Our Blessings. 8

D. He Chastens To Assure Us of Holiness In Us. 9-11