A Cloud Of Witnesses

-September 7, 2025-

Good morning beloved, happy Lord’s Day,

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

(Hebrews 12:1)

The writer of Hebrews has just spoken of the great men and women of faith from the OT. The word “therefore” connects the two chapters, 11 and 12. But there are many more saints that have gone before us to inspire and encourage us.

Paul speaks in 1 Corinthians 15 of those who witnessed the resurrection. He refers to Cephas, who is Peter, the twelve, which included Matthias, who was chosen to replace Judas, then by over hundred others, and finally by Paul himself. They too represent Christ as a cloud of witnesses.

They all surround us as examples to keep running the race set before us with endurance, despite the challenges, obstacles, and hardships. Their faith inspires us to run strong to the finish line.

Years ago when I ran cross country and track, we had spectators watching and cheering us on. It really helped us. To be successful a runner one must be as light as possible. For us in the Christian race, means we must shed every weight and sin that would so easily ensnares us.

Let us keep our eyes on Jesus and keep on keeping on. Have a blessed Lord’s Day. Stay safe and healthy.

With our eyes on the prize, let us run with endurance the race set before us.

Dean