Christian living is compared here to running a race. There is a great challenge. The race is “before us” (Heb. 12:1-2). There is a reward for faithfully running the race (1 Cor. 9:24-26). Christians need constant encouragement and admonition; they can be hindered (Gal. 5:7).
Hebrews 12 sets forth the challenge to “run the race” and also some of the “high hurdles” in the race. A hurdle is a barrier, or obstacle, over which men leap.
THE HURDLE OF “CONTRADICTION OF SINNERS” (Heb. 12:3):
This is the age-old technique of discouragement by criticism. The devil accused Job of serving God from selfish motives (Job 1:9-11). This same technique was used against Nehemiah (4:1-4). Peter said sinners spoke evil of saints (1 Peter 4:3-5). The devil is called “the accuser of the brethren” (Rev. 12:10). Runners in the Christian race must “leap this hurdle,” lest they be feared and faithless in their minds (Heb. 12:3).
THE HIGH HURDLE OF TEMPATION TO SIN (Heb. 12:4):
“Temptation” means “solicitation to sin” (Matt. 4:1). “Sin means to “miss the mark” (Rom. 3:23). One must strive against sin. We should hide God’s word in our heats (Psa. 119:11). Sometimes it is a matter of fleeing from sin (2 Tim. 2:22; Gen. 39:12).
THE HIGH HURDLE OF FALSE BRETHREN (Heb. 12:12-17):
Brethren sometimes “go out from us.” These people often become unreasonable and unfair critics of the church (1 Tim. 1:19-20). This unfaithfulness could be a real discouraging thing to the faithful, unless they remember the warning in Hebrews 12:16.
Sometimes brethren become “profane, and immoral” (Heb. 12:16). Faithful brethren should try to restore such (Gal. 6:1; James 5:19-20).
The race is before us. Run as if you will be the only winner (1 Cor. 9:24-26). Remember the reward at the finish line (2 Tim. 4:7-8).
the late Wayne Holland
