Greater Followers (Hebrews 11-13)

Triumph & Tragedy

June 10, 2018

Please turn in your Bibles to Hebrews 11:23-40

Faith (noun): that inkling that gives us the potential of stepping forward even in the midst of the uncertainties.

Triumph in Tragedy (V 23-35a)

“He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than all the

treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.” Heb.11:26

“They gained what was promised” Hebrews 11:33d (also verse 10)

Tragedy in Triumph (35b-39)

39 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, 40 since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. Hebrews 11:39

WHERE WE MUST FOCUS

1: Look Back toward the Witnesses

“…without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

2: Look Up toward Jesus (see verse 26a)

3: Looking Forward to Joy (see verse 26)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3

What is God’s Spirit speaking into your life today? How must you respond?