Hebrews 12: 1-3

12:1 Therefore [links what follows to the examples (see Hebrews 11) of those who persisted in serving God], since we are [three things that motivate and help us to “run with perseverance” include: 1] surrounded by such a great cloud [a great number or assembly of people] of witnesses [not spectators but witnesses or those whose lives bear witness to us of what God can do; Gr. martyron: those saints listed in Heb. 11 who were tried by difficulties; follow the example of those who have run well], [2] let us throw off [remove: athletes removed superfluous flesh through training and excess clothes in competition] everything [broad application; includes things which, though good and right, can become a hindrance to spiritual progress] that hinders [keeps you from living a faithful Christian life] and [in addition] the [any] sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance [indicates that the race is difficult] the race [contest; struggle; not a short race but a marathon; see 1 Cor. 9:24-25; Phil. 3:13-14; 2 Tim. 4:7] marked [path of faithfulness; stay in your lane; do not veer of your path] out for us [not all are entered in the same event but all must be faithful in their event].

Note: To run the race successfully, remember to…
A. Look around at the winners (12:1a)
B. Look at yourself (12:2)
C. Look at Jesus Christ (12:3)
(Warren Wiersbe)

12:2 [3] Let us [deliberately look away from one thing (distractions) to another (Jesus)] fix our eyes [focus] on Jesus [not on people], the author [chief; leader; captain; pioneer; originator] and perfecter [the one who inspires, leads, and enables us to reach the goal] of our faith, who [persisted in staying on the path the Father had set for Him] for [because of] the joy set before Him [Jesus knew His work would provide salvation for many] endured the cross [completed His mission], scorning [disregarding] its shame [disgrace; see Gal. 3:13], and sat down [perfect tense indicates He is still there; see Heb. 1:3; Eph. 1:20] at the right hand of the throne of God [see Phil. 2:6-11].

Note: See Acts 7:56 regarding the reference to Jesus “standing” — perhaps to welcome Stephen, the first martyr, into heaven!

12:3 Consider [reckon; meditate] Him [Jesus is our greatest example] who endured such opposition from sinful men [throughout His ministry], so [for this reason] that you will not grow weary [discouraged] and lose heart [give up; grow slack; give out].