Hebrews 12 - Day 207 (link to reading plan)
Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-4 Commentary: The theme of this passage is the need for perseverance or endurance through trials, as indicated by the use of similar terminology in vs 1, 2, 3 and 7 (cf. 10:32; 36). Developing the image of an athletic contest, the writer urges his readers to look to the great cloud of witnesses in ch. 11, for encouragement to run with perseverance the race of faith (1). As a climax to his presentation of the great heroes of faith, the writer recalls the endurance of Jesus in the face of extreme suffering, shame and opposition, and relates this to the situation of his readers (2–4). This leads to a meditation on the way God disciplines his children through hardship, based on Pr. 3:11–12 (5–11). The challenge is for us to recognize the meaning and purpose of God’s discipline in our lives and to respond with trust and willing submission. A final appeal for endurance is made in language that stresses the need to strengthen those who are weak or exhausted and tempted to abandon the race (12–13). Peterson, D. G. (1994). Hebrews. In D. A. Carson, R. T. France, J. A. Motyer, & G. J. Wenham (Eds.), New Bible commentary: 21st century edition (4th ed., p. 1349). Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press. Application: God's will or our lives is to be sanctified. Although we rely on the Holy Spirit to empower and lead us, we still need to put in our effort and that takes discipline. Prayer; Holy Spirit, help me to love the things that you love and to live live as though I am holy. Comments are closed.
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