Hebrews 12:1
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Word-by-Word Analysis
Analysis
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. This verse applies the examples of faith from chapter 11 to encourage perseverance. The "cloud of witnesses" (nephos martyrōn, νέφος μαρτύρων) refers to the heroes of faith who provide testimony to God's faithfulness, not spectators watching our performance. Their lives bear witness to the reliability of faith.
"Lay aside every weight" (apothemenoi ogan, ἀποθέμενοι ὄγκον) uses athletic imagery of runners removing unnecessary clothing and weights. "Weight" refers to anything that hinders spiritual progress—not necessarily sin but anything that slows spiritual advancement. The definite article before "sin" (tēn hamartian, τὴν ἁμαρτίαν) may refer to a specific besetting sin or the principle of sin itself.
"Run with patience" (di' hypomonēs trechōmen, δι' ὑπομονῆς τρέχωμεν) combines active effort with patient endurance. The Christian life requires both sustained effort and patient persistence, like a long-distance race rather than a sprint.
Historical Context
The athletic imagery would have been familiar to first-century readers who knew Greek Olympic games and local athletic competitions. Athletes trained rigorously, maintained strict diets, and competed naked to avoid any hindrance. This imagery emphasized the dedication and focus required for Christian living.
The original recipients faced mounting persecution and social pressure to abandon their Christian faith. Some were wavering, discouraged by suffering and the apparent delay of Christ's return. The author uses the metaphor of a race to encourage persistence despite difficulties.
Questions for Reflection
- How do the 'witnesses' from Hebrews 11 provide encouragement for contemporary believers facing spiritual challenges?
- What specific 'weights' and 'sins' might hinder spiritual progress in modern Christian living?
- How does understanding the Christian life as a long-distance race change approaches to spiritual discipline and perseverance?