FIX YOUR EYES ON JESUS

Passage: Hebrews 12:1-3

Key verse: 2

NIV

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run(A) with perseverance(B) the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus,(C) the pioneer(D) and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross,(E) scorning its shame,(F) and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.(G) 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary(H) and lose heart.

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Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Source: BibleGateway

ESV

Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and (A)sin which clings so closely, and (B)let us run (C)with endurance the race that is (D)set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, (E)who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising (F)the shame, and (G)is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Do Not Grow Weary

3 (H)Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or (I)fainthearted.

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The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Source: BibleGateway

1. Let us run with perseverance (1)

The Christian life is a race. A great crowd of men and women of faith have run the race before us. They set the example. They are cheering us on. In order to run a good race we must first throw off whatever hinders us. Especially, we must cast off the shackles of sin by daily repentance. Second, we must run with perseverance. This means that we must not give up.

2. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus (2-3)

As runners, we must have a clear destination. We can find our direction and our destination when we fix our eyes on Jesus. We do this through Bible study and prayer--and by bringing our thoughts under Christ's control. Jesus is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Jesus set the example. He didn't like the cross, but he endured it. He also endured the opposition of sinful men. Therefore, we who follow him must not grow tired when small or large hindrances arise.

Prayer: Lord, help me to fix my eyes on Jesus who endured the cross for me.

One Word: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus