Patience

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2

INTRODUCTION:

1. Christians do well to recognize the possibility that they might drift or fall away (Heb. 2:1-4; Heb. 2:4-6).
2. We are painfully aware of many others who are struggling with living faithfully in Christ.

DISCUSSION:  

I. THE MEANING.

1. hupo – “to abide under.”
2. makrothumia – “longsuffering” (cf. Heb. 6:12).
3. Patience means to endure.

II. THE MANIFESTATION.

1. We are confused by sin and sinners (Heb. 12:3; 1 Pt. 4:3-4).
2. We must contend against sin (Heb. 12:4).
3. In Christ, we cope with trials of life (Heb. 12:5-11).
4. We are confronted by bitterness (Heb. 12:15).

III. THE MOTIVATION.

1. We look to Jesus (Heb. 12:2, 14).
2. We know that our citizenship is in heaven, an immovable kingdom (Heb. 12:28).

Conclusion: The Bible likens Christianity to a race.  It is not a sprint, but instead a marathon.  May we each so run!

Patience