Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (2)looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (3) For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. (4) You have not resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. (5) And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;

The author of the letter to the Hebrews is unknown. The author devotes Chapter 11 to the many examples of Old Testament saints who endured by faith and now, in our verses, continues the theme of perseverance in faith. The original readers of this letter were Christian Jews who were suffering socially but not yet unto bodily harm and were tempted to apostasy. Facing persecution, the Christian Hebrews were contemplating turning aside from Christ and returning to Jewish life before they became Christians. The author appeals to them to pay the price, to be faithful unto death – to look to Christ, the author and focus of our faith. He/she speaks of a great cloud of witnesses who have run the race before us as examples – a lifelong race we must all enter.

We should lay aside anything that impedes our running this race successfully – using the metaphor of running a marathon is illustrative of Christian life. Encumbrances and weights may not be sin but make perseverance difficult; love of this present life, lusts of the flesh, worldly cares, riches, honors. We are to wear this world lightly. Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of faith and trust – He is our North Star. He set the example. He endured the pain, humiliation and the disgrace of the cross. He alone is the source of hope and help in the time of need. This is the central theological and practical message of Hebrews.

Our race is won or lost on the training field to continue the metaphor of running a marathon. We are in constant training/discipline – one day at a time with our eyes on Jesus. Faith in Christ Jesus always proceeds discipline or or all will end in failure. Faith in Christ Jesus always involves work. Our course is set by God; we may stumble, break stride, or fall but do not give up. Not finishing this race has eternal consequences.