July 15, 2018

Faith Fixed on Jesus (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Pastor: Ben Muresan Series: Hebrews: Christ Is Superior Topic: Hebrews Scripture: Hebrews 12:1–3

First Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 17:1-58

Second Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:1-27

Sermon Text: Hebrews 12:1-3

The epistle to the Hebrews was written mainly to Jewish Christians who heard the gospel from the Apostles and became followers of Christ. As a result of their newfound faith and confession, they were expelled from Jewish institutions and were experiencing persecution. They were subjected to suffering and shame and were increasingly tempted to turn away from Christ and return to what was familiar and comfortable to them. The author of the epistle wrote to encourage them to persevere in their faith, which was veiled in the Old Testament but has now been made known in the New
Covenant mediated by Jesus.

In Hebrews 12:1-3, the author encourages both a negative and a positive aspect to the Hebrews’ sanctification and perseverance: they are to lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely, and they are to look to Christ. In so doing they will be strengthened in their faith and finish the race marked out for them. We read this same assurance in the Westminster Confession of Faith 14.3 which explains that saving faith is “different in degrees, weak or strong; may be often and many ways assailed, and weakened, but gets the victory: growing up in many to the attainment of a full assurance, through Christ, who is both the author and finisher of our faith.”

other sermons in this series