Hebrews 12

1-13 The Example of Jesus

Note: I appreciate the way the NRSV has subtitled this section of chapters 11 and 12 – something I had not noticed before. Chapter 11 begins with “The Meaning of Faith,” then it goes through examples of faith: Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Other Israelite Heroes, then finally, “The Example of Jesus,” making him also a hero of faith, as were his predecessors.

• With so great a cloud of witnesses (from Abel to the prophets), let us shed the weight of sin and run the race.
• More than just another hero of faith, Jesus is the “pioneer and perfecter” of our faith. He goes before us – showing us the way – and follows behind us – completing what we lack.
• [Like Moses (11:24-26),] Jesus disregarded the shame of the cross for the sake of future joy – which he now enjoys as he sits at the right hand of God.
• Therefore – in light of Jesus’ example - persevere! Because though you struggle, you haven’t shed any blood.
• As children of God, look at suffering as a form of discipline, just as you were disciplined as physical children by parents who loved you.
• Discipline is a mark of legitimacy and a cause for respecting your parents, who did what seemed best at the time.
• So, respect God for his discipline, which brings life and the “peaceful fruit of righteousness.”
• Therefore, pick yourself up and walk a straight path.

14-29 Warnings against Rejecting God’s Grace

• Instructions:
  • Pursue peace with everyone.
  • Prevent roots of bitterness from springing up – they defile people.
  • Don’t sell your birthright for temporary relief, as Esau did.
• You have not come to Mount Sinai – fiery, dark, untouchable and fearful.
• You have come to Mount Zion – the city of God, heavenly Jerusalem, assembly of angels and the firstborn – and to Jesus, mediator of a new covenant.
• If they [Israelites] didn’t escape when warned by [Moses], how will you escape warnings from heaven?
• Give thanks for a kingdom that will never be shaken, with reverence and awe.
• “Our God is a consuming fire.” Yes, through Christ, God is now approachable as he never was before, but we still must approach him with the respect due to one who has such great power and majesty.We are in danger when we mistake his mercy for license.