The book of Hebrews is one of the most fascinating and mysterious books of scripture. Not only is the author unknown, but it contains many intriguing references to other events, and a distinct style that compares and contrasts the major covenants. The book of Hebrews is a letter that is written to the Hebrews; as such, it has many elements that would be obvious to a Hebrew person of that day, but can be confusing to us. Hebrews chapter twelve, contains powerful imagery about running a race, that can be perplexing and frightening if we don’t understand the message. Today we examine Hebrews twelve with the lens of grace, and allow the finished work of Christ to bring us clarity.
There an interesting phrase in Hebrews chapter 12 verse 1, which encourages us to lay aside every weight and sin; and this directive has caused some degree of confusion and misapplication, to make people think that they must strive to “stop sinning” through their own self-effort. And this, like every other form of religiosity, will lead to spiritual and emotional bondage and ultimately death instead of the freedom and life that Christ sacrificed to give us. What I would like to share with you today, is a different perspective on what it means to lay aside every weight and sin – and it doesn’t rely on your own efforts, your own sacrifices, or your own strength, but on the finished work of Jesus Christ. And as you see this truth today, you will rejoice at how easy Christ has made all of this for us.