4/24/2016
Dr. Frank W.R. Benoit
“Keep Your Focus on Jesus” Hebrews 12:1-3
Grace Community Church Apr. 24, 2016 Frank W.R. Benoit
Introduction – The Christian life is sometimes compared to a race in the NT. One of those times is in Hebrews 12. Running a race requires focus and endurance, which both come from discipline and effort.
- Facing the Race (vs. 1): We can’t choose whether or not to enter the race, we’re already in it from the day we trust in Christ. We must face it and choose how we’ll run the race. We need to remember the testimony of believers who have preceded us and be conscious of the sacrifice and the struggle they endured, since it is a legacy we inherit.
A. Free oneself of all hindrances – “let us lay aside every encumbrance and [lay aside] the sin which so easily entangles us” (i.e. undistracted, self-discipline).
B. Follow the course – “let us run the race set before us with endurance” (i.e. perseverance, persistence, effort).
Application: We have to get rid of distractions and sins that impede our progress and growth in the Christian life.
- Focusing on Jesus (vs. 2-3): As we live the Christian life, Jesus must be our focus because He is the key revelation of God (John 1:18) and to understanding God and life as a believer.
A. Focus on Jesus for who He is as our model and the One to follow.
B. Focus on Jesus and what He endured like He focused on the result.
C. Focus on Jesus so that we don’t get discouraged and quit, but rather get energy and encouragement
Application: As Christians, keeping our focus on Jesus is the key to “running” or living the Christian life well. It is so important it is repeated: “fixing our eyes on Jesus” and “consider Him who has endured”. We need to realize the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus and do it!
Application: For unbelievers, focusing on Jesus is the only way to be saved (John 14:6; Acts 4:12), it is the step of faith that starts the race.
Conclusion – As believers in Jesus Christ – or as it is currently described, as “Christ followers – we need to remember the legacy and testimony of believers who preceded us, to run the course without hindrances but with effort, and to remain focused on Jesus and not give up. That’s how to be faithful and persevere in the Christian life and not get discouraged.