Time after Pentecost · Proper 15 · Year C
Hebrews 11:17-31; 12:1-3
Surrounded by a Great Cloud of Witnesses
August 20, 2028
Overview & Insights
"Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus." (Hebrews 12:1-2)
The roll call of faith rushes through the exodus, the conquest, and the judges and prophets who suffered for their trust in God, naming figures whose faith looked forward to a fulfillment they never saw. The writer then turns to the readers themselves, urging them to run their own race with endurance, fixed on Jesus.
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Commentary
Hebrews 11 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik on Abraham's willingness to offer Isaac and the roll call of faith that follows.
Hebrews 11:23-26 Commentary Precept Austin
A close look at Moses' choice to suffer with God's people rather than enjoy Egypt's pleasures.
Hebrews 12:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentaries on the 'cloud of witnesses' image that opens chapter 12.
Hebrews 12 - Barnes' Notes StudyLight
Barnes' Notes on the athletic imagery of laying aside every weight to run the race.
Commentary on Hebrews 11:29-12:2 Working Preacher
Erik Heen on how the 'cloud of witnesses' are the very saints of chapter 11 cheering the church on.
Background & Word Study
Hebrews 12:1 Interlinear BibleHub
The Greek text word by word for 'looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.'
Hebrews Course Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary's introductory course on Hebrews, background on its argument and original audience.
Hebrews Overview BibleProject
An animated overview of Hebrews and its case that Jesus is greater than every Old Testament figure or event.
The Church Fathers
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