Brian Combs 11/2/16 11.03.2016 News They rain on our parades; they obscure our vision; they represent ominous omens on the horizon. Paul makes reference in chapter 12 to a cloud of witnesses that are in chapter 11. Also, the narrative places this during the opening of the seals, and we can see in that narrative that there are still people running around in the world experiencing a terrible time of tribulation as the subsequent seals are opened. They had seen signs and wonders and were thrilled with their new lives (Heb. He said on a Sunday evening, I went with a friend to worship. We truly are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. But is that what this idiom means? 25 Don't stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Enoch is a mystery. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. What we do know is that he walked closely and faithfully with God. Numbers 9:21 KJV, "And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle." In the mean time, they bear witness to our lives. God warned Israel, Woe to those who are at ease in Zion, and to those who feel secure in the the mountain of Samaria (Amos 6:1). Return to: 24 And let us consider each other carefully for the purpose of sparking love and good deeds. Throughout Scripture, we find countless stories of God's faithfulness. We are to be inspired by the godly examples these saints set during their lives. (Hebrews 12:1-2) tells us: "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and . 2:15) and Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? We also find stories of people who remained faithful to Him. PO Box 2982 And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Hebrews 12:1 II ' If anyone kills a person, the murderer shall be put to death at the evidence of witnesses, but no person shall be put to death on the testimony of one witness. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. In any case, angels dont come from dead people. Enter your email address and we will send you instructions on how to reset your password. By whom were they commended? According to scripture, our social aspirations betray the placement of our hearts--with God, or with false idols. Deuteronomy 17:6 KJV, "And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud:" Genesis 9:14 KJV, "One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established." Birds gather together in clouds. Lazarus finds himself at Abrahams side (literally, bosom), which is understood to be a very good place to be, and the rich man is in torment. They all have one thing in common, they believed God and obeyed Him. In the book of Hebrews, as in many places in the New Testament, let us may refer to believers, to unbelievers, or to both. Chapter 12. It would seem that asleep might be the ancient Greek equivalent expression. Paul believed this principle and he had a hupomone kind of determination. The believers of the past that have died don't watch us --just inspire us to stand firm in our faith, right? They rain on our parades; they obscure our vision; they represent ominous omens on the horizon. How to Connect With YOUR Cloud of Witnesses 1. The completed registration allows us to send order and donation receipts to the email address you provided. This verse says that we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses. In Hebrews 11:39, it says, they were commended for their faith. If you are a Christian, run with endurance; dont give up.. Everyone is a champion. The competition of the Christian life, of course, is different from that of an athletic race in two important ways. From many ages, of both sexes, and in all positions of life. Artists Impression The apparent Ancient Hebrew conception of the Universe. But they're all dead. The people in the great cloud of witnesses watch us from heaven in order to help support us in our spiritual journeys. We also find stories of people who remained faithful to Him. Mar 15, 2022 - Explore Belinda Hatter's board "A Great Cloud of Witnesses.", followed by 102 people on Pinterest. In ancient, classical Greek times, the word "clouds" was used to describe the highest seats in the bleachers of a stadium. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." It is suggested by many Bible scholars that Jesus is retelling a well known Jewish fable, which probably simply made a point about being charitable in life in light of what the afterlife might hold. Our competition is against Satan, his world system, and our own sinfulness, often referred to in the New Testament as the flesh. In Hebrews 4 (vv. (12:1)The key phrase of this passage is let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Copyright 2019 by Zondervan. therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, They are the Team. See more ideas about prophetic art, christian art, jesus pictures. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. For the gospel, there is nothing you cannot do on this earth. This study dives into Hebrews 11, examining the lives of Rahab, Enoch, Gideon, Sarah, and many more whose faiths withstood the tests of their days. The course is crowded with everyday saints cheering us on, miscarried children and murdered protestors, diseased strangers and disavowed parents, beloved spouses and detested enemies. Your email address will not be published. The rainbow after the flood was set in the cloud. As you may be aware, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into full effect on 25th May 2018. Since the Wycliffe Bible, nearly all Bible translations have followed Langton's chapter divisions. They are content simply to be saved and to wait to go to heaven. He refers to those who have died in this same way elsewhere (1 Corinthians 11:30,15:6,15:18,15:20, 1Thessalonians 4:15), and Jesus, as recorded by John, uses the same idiom in speaking of Lazarus (John 11:11). Ezekiel 1:4 KJV, "Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses?" Deuteronomy 5:22 KJV, "False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not." The Angels at Christmas time: Whats with that? What we do know is that he walked closely and faithfully with God. They advertised in a church paper that they would sell them because they were going to have new ones made. Run in such a way that you may win. What we do know is that he walked closely and faithfully with God. Luke 24:48 KJV, "And the LORD appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle." Asheville, NC 28801, MAILING ADDRESS: They considered it down, under the earth, and named it sheol, which is also the word for grave. A Great Cloud of Witnesses But first, notice something important in Hebrews 12:1. They start out fast, but as the race goes on they slow down, give up, or just collapse. We are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses Hebrews 12:1. Topics: Church, Perseverance. As a matter of courtesy and concern, an author frequently identifies himself with those to whom he is writing, whether or not they are fellow Christians. That is the way many people live the Christian life. Fred Craddock recalled going home to the west Tennessee community of his childhood. Bible > Hebrews > Chapter 12 > Verse 1 Library Free Downloads eBibles Hebrews 12:1 Context Crossref Comment Greek Hebrews 12:1-2. If faith is an endurance race, then we do not run alone. By God? Tom Wright says that Paradise is a regular Jewish way of referring, not to the final destination of Gods people, but to the temporary place of rest before the rising again of the dead. The great cloud of witnesses Paul refers to is made perfect together with Christians, not apart from them. Cloud of Witnesses bible verse. We might well imagine a kind of studio audience on a massive scale, which says, Ooooooh!, and Hurrah!, and laughs and cries as our story unfolds. Second, our strength is not in ourselves, but in the Holy Spirit; otherwise we could never endure. The so great a cloud of witnesses is here with us, surrounding us, looking upon us and interceding for us. In the intro to the book, she provides women with four steps for . Please be aware that these items are sent out from our office in the UK. We also find stories of people who remained faithful to Him. Contributed by Mike Rickman on May 27, 2011 (message contributor) (rate this sermon) | 6,212 views Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3 Denomination: Assembly Of God Summary: We have all been influenced by saints who have gone before us. Gods people are not called to lie around on beds of ease. The merefactof this audience should strengthen us. Register. Don't compare, but be inspired 4. They have no way of getting to us or of hindering us. I have elsewhere described another audience, as being located in the angels:The Angels at Christmas time: Whats with that? Beginning in the 4th century, when Pope Gregory designated November 1st All Saints Day, the Church has knelt in worship to name the dead, has celebrated the faithful who have run the good race, has affirmed the atmospheric and eschatological intersection of earth and sky. The weatherman never smiles while reporting a cloudy forecast. The great cloud of witnesses surrounding us is the list of godly people mentioned in the previous chapter: Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David, and Samuel, and the prophets. 12Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Accordingly, we have updated our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions in order to comply with GDPR. What's with that? 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud . Fr. The seats at the very top of the stadium were called the cloudsbecause they were so high up in the air. Joshua 24:22 KJV, "But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.". In God's army we never hear "At ease." To stand still or to go backward is to forfeit the prize. ( Hebrews 12:1-2 ) I attended a family reunion this summer. They are awaiting the Final Judgement, at which they will be resurrected. Learn to imitate his faith while studying the great cloud of witnesses in Hebrews 11. The Bible says you are not only to run your race, but you are to finish your race or course (2 Tim. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable (1 Cor. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. At the last came two false witnesses," Matthew 26:60 KJV, "And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him." Another example of the same method is the variety of ways in which Jesus adapts the Isaiah 5 metaphor of the vineyard, using it in a variety of clever ways to make his point at various times, such as in Luke 13:1-9, which I look at in detail in another blog post. The writer is saying, If you are not a Christian, get in the race, because you have to enter before you can hope to win. There are hints at people being awake in this afterlife, such as: So they with all that belonged to them went down alive intoSheol; the earth closed over them, and they perished from the midst of the assembly. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great . Clouds in scripture = Witnesses. They are the witnesses to the faith, those who came before Jesus and those who came after him. 1,048 Instances - Page 1 of 35 - Sort by Book Order - Feedback. Thats not how the Biblical authors think about it. Let death come upon them; let them go down alive toSheol; for evil is in their homes and in their hearts. The following is an excerpt from The MacArthur New Testament Commentary on Hebrews 12. What about before then? How can they be said to be witnesses? The Great Cloud of Witnesses. In any case, the scriptures belong to the people of God, so what the scriptures commend is commended by the faithful community. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I buffet my body and make it my slave, lest possibly, after I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified (1 Cor. But that resurrection is said to happen all at once, when Christ returns to gather the faithful and make all things new. 1 Timothy 5:19 KJV, "These words the LORD spake unto all your assembly in the mount out of the midst of the fire, of the cloud, and of the thick darkness, with a great voice: and he added no more. Coptic John 1:1 and 18 A very early translation of Scripture clearly refers to Jesus as something less than God himself. Psalms 35:11 KJV, "He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:" Hebrews 10:28 KJV, "And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the colour of amber, out of the midst of the fire." He said to him, If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.. Hebrews 12:1 New International Version 12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. God is concerned for steadfastness. I mean, when talking about their late Granny, people will often say she has passed on, or passed away. Please respond to confirm your registration. In those cases it certainly doesnt prove that people literally believed in this afterlife concept, but in many other cases it is obvious that they did. The Resurrection has not happened. It also has much to do with inverting the contemporary expectations around social status and Gods favour (so Green, in The Gospel of Luke, p603). Selah. The Cloud of Witnesses Our ladies are doing a book study and the other day the book stated that the great cloud of witnesses were watching us. Revelation 11:12 KJV, "And ye are witnesses of these things." Chapter 20 summarises this as The First Resurrection: They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. Acts 2:32 KJV, "Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses." Learn to imitate his faith while studying the great cloud of witnesses in Hebrews 11. Therefore, the "something better" he is referring to must be the aforementioned "fulfillment of the promise". AUGUST 1 Be On Guard . II BIBLE STUDY -16 II Bro. So I started out well; in fact I led the pack for the first 100 yards or so. Angels are created creatures, as are people. Those witnesses are the heroes of the faith. 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, Job 37:11 chapter context similar meaning copy save. But not so in the Bible. Each devotional invites you into the lives of these faithful heroes and . They were not all commended in their lifetime, but the Scripture bears witness to them in a positive light, as exemplars of the faith. Race is the Greek agon, from which we get agony. On All Saints Day we believe that while the attendance pads may only record those who are physically present, in every house of worship and beyond the pews are always packed and the balconies always full, that the Church is involved with far more than just the living, that there are so many Christians among us besides us. Nothing can stop you; neither Satan . Matthew 23:31 KJV, "And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses." 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. They were so cheap we bought them. And I said, Well, they sure are beautiful, but what are you going to do about the plaques? He said, Well, the board discussed that, and we decided to leave those names up there. Adapting stories is not an unusual technique for Jesus (and probably for other rabbis). Intercede in agreement with prayers in Heaven, as the cloud of witnesses has a powerful voice in the heavenly courts. They are those who looked to God and truth and, though they were not perfect, trusted in peak hope of the coming Messiah . . We see in Hebrews 12:1-2 that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, men and women who have gone before us who testify to us of God's faithfulness. 1 2 3 4 Next Acts 3:15 KJV, "This is the third time I am coming to you. Make space to go to conferences and connect with other leaders. Endurance (hupomone) is steady determination to keep going. Sheol beneath is stirred up to meet you when you come; it rouses the shades to greet you, all who were leaders of the earth; it raises from their thrones all who were kings of the nations. To the Jewish mind, this is a place of longing for the fullness of a bodily life once again. For less than $5/mo. The mighty chiefs shall speak of them, with their helpers, out of the midst ofSheol: They have come down, they lie still, the uncircumcised, killed by the sword.. So the next time you decide to go for a run, just wait until it clouds over. Revelation 14:14 KJV, "And the glory of the LORD abode upon mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days: and the seventh day he called unto Moses out of the midst of the cloud." Please contact the publisher to obtain copies of this resource. The only time we sin, the only time we fail, is when we do not trust. Starting May 3rd, join us as we learn to run back to our Savior while working through A Great Cloud of Witnesses. In the Book of Hebrews, Scripture introduces us to the great cloud of witnessesbelievers who have gone before us, joining the ranks of those gathered before the throne of God. Enter the stories of the faithful in A Great Cloud of Witnesses. I can still remember the excruciating experience I had in high school when I first ran the half-mile. The Son of Man will appear with glory and power on a cloud. Daily Scripture Hebrews 10:24-25. The Christian has only one way to endureby faith. Hebrews 12:1 assures us (the faithful), that "we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses", referring to the saints whom the whole previous chapter had been listing. Compassion is hidden from my eyes. But not so in the Bible. This crowd is much more than . They are, in a sense, the audience. To strengthen and deepen your own faith, enter the stories of God's imperfect yet faithful people in A Great Cloud of Witnesses, a six-week bible study by Trillia Newbell. Every one of the witnesses in the cloud has been down on the field where you are now. Breath Prayer ~ Power of Love, know peace They started looking back at the old ways of Judaism, and around them and ahead of them at the persecution and suffering, and they began to weaken and waver. Spiritual Focus ~ "When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." Jimi Hendrix. They testify to God's faithfulness, that He will see them through all the vicissitudes of life. There are so many of them that they become a cloud - huge mass of people - all of whom are cheering us on. In this study, she does an excellent job of helping women understand how to approach the Bible. This is how we, in the modern Western world, talk about the environmental question: we invoke thefuture generations as witnesses of our choices today: What will our grandchildren say about our present choices?. It is unmistakable as a reference to the ongoing existence of Samuel after death. We are not called on to endure in ourselves, but in Him. Stand strong, confidently, be bold and match forward; accomplish your course. Yet I believe the lack of desire to win is a basic problem with many Christians. The narrative continues, getting to the second Resurrection only later in verse 12 and following. 16:26 calls that, "The obedience of faith". Guest. This plan will use the life of Enoch as our example of living a quiet life by faith. So great cloud of witnesses. 9:2425). Clouds have a bad reputation. That is why our protection against Satans temptations is the shield of faith (Eph. But God will ransom my soul from the power ofSheol, for he will receive me. After clicking 'Register', you will receive an email with a link to verify your account and to complete your registration. First, we are not to compete against other Christians, trying to outdo each other in righteousness, recognition, or accomplishments. Indeed, the important thing about that faith is that this is what the ancients were commended for (Hebrews 11:2). Faithful servants of old had no idea what form the reward would take or how the promise would be fulfilled. We should know their companionship, their encouragement, their deep yearning for justice, and their advice about faith. 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,[ b] let us throw off everything that weighs us down and the sins that so easily distract us and with perseverance run the race that lies ahead of us, 2 with our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter . This is the first resurrection. 7pm 8-jun-2022 tabernacle baptist church newbridge bible study series learning lessons from a great cloud of . Try Bible Gateway Plus free today! Which is it? New International Version 12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. As long as we are trusting God and doing what He wants us to do, Satan and sin have no power over us. So according to todays text, what do we believe on All Saints Day? Jesus is the mediator that makes sainthood for all possible. 3. NIV Reverse Interlinear Bible: English to Hebrew and English to Greek. God calls us all to selfless actions like this that reflect His love and grace onto others. And let us run with perseverance the race . This is the "great cloud of witnesses" spoken of here. To strengthen and deepen your own faith, enter the stories of God's imperfect yet faithful people in A Great Cloud of Witnesses, a six-week bible study by Trillia Newbell. I didnt recognize any of the names and I was reared there. The entire heaven is focusing on you. It says that we are not running our race unobserved. The Lord led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt in a pillar of cloud. Since the UK is now no longer a member of the EU, you may be charged an import tax on this item by the customs authorities in your country of residence, which is beyond our control. . Help Grace to You bring important resources like this to people in your community and beyond, free of charge. The rainbow after the flood was set in the cloud. I disagreed. Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. That is what Christian commitment is all about. In chapter 7, 144,000 people are marked out with a seal so that they will not be harmed in the judgement, but all the others, a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language(Revelation 7:9), who are killed for their faith in the great tribulation (Revelation 7:14), join the angels in the throne room of God. Each record of their testimony gives us one more witness that in some way or another testifies that doing things exactly God's way always brings success and reward. God's promise to Abraham, and the inheritance that will come from that in the future, was not something that had to be negotiated. It does not just include my grandma, Evelyn Mathews. Hebrews 12:1 assures us (the faithful), that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, referring to the saints whom the whole previous chapter had been listing. These are those whose past lives of faith encourage others to live that way, too. A Great Cloud of Witnesses Faith among the ancients. And the title of the sermon is The Cloud of Witnesses, and the text is the first verse of the twelfth chapter of the Book . There is a doctrine that gets around called, Soul Sleep, which reflects the point of view that those who are dead are asleep. A race is not a thing of passive luxury, but is demanding, sometimes grueling and agonizing, and requires our utmost in self-discipline, determination, and perseverance. It does not just include strong leaders who embrace their emotions and humanness. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, Read full chapter Hebrews 12:1 in all English translations Hebrews 11 Hebrews 13 Heb 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, The normal word used in scripture for cloud is (Greek - Nephele). Hymn: "Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" PH 466, PsH 501, RL 362/363, RN 32, SFL 19, TH 164, TWC 130, UMH 57. Asheville, NC 28802, The Great Cloud of Witnesses Sermon by Rev. And let us run(A) with perseverance(B) the race marked out for us. A conversation ensues. But as the new began to wear off and problems began to arise, they began to lose their enthusiasm and their confidence. As the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us. Or does it refer to the fact that a dead personappears to be sleeping, and hence this term became a more gentle way of saying dead? likeSheollet us swallow them alive and whole, like those who go down to the Pit. Clouds have a bad reputation. This audience is willing us on! GDPR is the new European privacy regulation, which will replace the Data Protection Act 1998 in the UK and the equivalent legislation across the EU Member States. The "great cloud of witnesses," not our loved ones watching us from heaven, is actually the saints listed in chapter 11. Registered User Learn how your comment data is processed. Quite specifically, these souls are speaking before the general Resurrection of chapter 20, and they explicitly have not yet been avenged (that happens in Revelation 19:2). Ask for help. I said to my friend, Are these new people who have come in? He said, No, a church in St. Louis ordered these windows from Italy, and when they got them, they didnt fit. The Witnesses Chapter 11 lists a procession of Biblical saints from bygone days, who exemplified "faith", as defined in Hebrews 11:1. Enoch is a mystery. In the parable of Lazarus (not the same Lazarus as Jesus friend of the same name) and the Rich Man (Luke 16:19-31), both characters die. Matthew 17:5 KJV, "While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud." Who commended them? When we run in the power of Gods Spirit, we run successfully. Nothing makes less sense than to be in a race that you have little desire to win. This is normally seen as contradicting the reference to asleep used in the above examples. Some are merely jogging, some are walking slowly, and some are sitting or even lying down. Mark 9:7 KJV, "And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory." Exodus 24:16 KJV, "And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents." And everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. "The Great Cloud of Witnesses" - Sermon by Rev. Their witness to the reader is the example of their faith lived out in their obedience, and this is to give us an example to follow and encouragement to obey God in our own lives as proof of our own belief in the saving power of Jesus Christ. Numbers 14:14 KJV, "Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets." They called out in a loud voice, How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood? Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been. This is important because it incorporates the deep investment that God has placed in our temporal, flesh-and-bone human bodies: We were created in His image, after all! Another Great Cloud of Witnesses. A Great Cloud of Witnesses: A Study of Those Who Lived by Faith (A Study in Hebrews 11) Paperback - January 5, 2021 by Trillia J. Newbell (Author) 193 ratings See all formats and editions Kindle $8.99 Read with Our Free App Paperback $10.39 11 Used from $3.80 7 New from $9.99 Great on Kindle Great Experience. New International Version (NIV). We have an audience, made up not only of God HImself, and all the angels, but also of human beings, who have striven and have attempted this life of faith. I need scripture references if anyone other than God watches us from heaven. It means continuing even when everything in you wants to slow down or give up. The Schooner Web System 2022. "It will seem like all hell has broken loosesun, moon, stars, earth, sea, in an uproar and everyone all over the world in a panic, the wind knocked out of them by the threat of doom, the powers-that-,"And thenthen!they'll see the Son of Man welcomed in grand stylea glorious welcome! But in a race or in a war or in the Christian life, lack of desire to win is unacceptable. This study dives into Hebrews . "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, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of . Curt Blattman November 9, 2020. In 10:2324, the reference can be both to believers and unbelievers. THE NUMBER OF THE WITNESSES. Heb.12:1. Yet we do not compete with each other even in faith. Throughout Scripture we find countless stories of God's faithfulness--we also find countless stories of the people who remained faithful to Him. God validated their testimony by placing them in Scripture. Hebrews 12:1-3 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. In Revelation 6 (before the Resurrection of Revelation 20), we start to hear about those who have died for their faith: When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. On the evidence of two witnesses or three witnesses, he who is to die shall be put to death; he shall not be put to death on the . Enoch is a mystery. The saints complete their lives by being involved in ours. Rom. Hebrews 12:1. Our topical studies in Hebrews now consider the famous eleventh chapter which teaches about faith by reminding us of many courageous Old Testament believers.. It is important to note that this is not depicting the resurrection. Also by watering he wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his bright cloud: This plan will use the life of Enoch as our example of living a quiet life by faith. This plan will use the life of Enoch as our example of living a quiet life by faith. The truths, however, apply primarily to Christians, who are already running. 7pm 8-jun-2022 tabernacle baptist church newbridge bible study series learning lessons from a great cloud of witnesses in the bible week 54 david - when god bless you in abundance 2 samuel 6:11-23, 7:1-29 with pastor peter cho . Yet the biblical standard for holy living is a race, not a morning constitutional. A Great Cloud of Witnesses Scripture Reading Hebrews 12:1-3 Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of wit-nesses let us run with perseverance fixing our eyes on Jesus. we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. Luke 9:34 KJV, "I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee." I will return to that question later. Take a break from your work to get spiritual direction. You Have Not Yet Resisted to the Point of Bloodshed. And he wrote them in two tables of stone, and delivered them unto me." A Great Cloud of Witnesses A Study of Those Who Lived by Faith (A Study in Hebrews 11) Buy Now Rejuvenate your faith through the stories of the faithful. The Wycliffe English Bible of 1382 was the first Bible to use this chapter pattern. By the deceased saints? The lesson is that we also should exemplify such faith, and be commended for it in the same way. Similarly, 6:1 speaks of unbelievers going on to the maturity of salvation. The Bibles promise is that we will be resurrected. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established." 39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, 40 since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. In fact, its not directly compatible with the New Testament picture of life-after-death. This study dives . For 6 weeks, we will dwell on Hebrews 11 and study the lives of flawed yet faithful servants who endured great suffering, obeyed the Lord, and in some instances, were even killed for their faith. All rights reserved. There werent many people there but I noticed the small church had new leaded glass windows, beautiful windows, and I calculated, expensive windows. This study dives into Hebrews 11, examining the lives of Rahab, Enoch, Gideon, Sarah, and many more whose faiths withstood the tests of their days. His point is that there is sufficient information in the Scriptures about being charitable that the rich man character cannot even claim ignorance. Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission. PHYSICAL ADDRESS: What we do know is that he walked closely and faithfully with God. I was used to the 100-yard dash, which requires more speed but is over quickly. In ancient times, the faithful contemplated the afterlife, but didnt have much information to go on. While we are running in this spiritual race, the Bible says we are "compassed about" by a "great . The Christian race is a marathon, a long-distance race, not a sprint. The Cloud of Witnesses D. Young Hebrews 12:1 Why seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight I. By angels? Mark 14:63 KJV, "And they will tell it to the inhabitants of this land: for they have heard that thou LORD art among this people, that thou LORD art seen face to face, and that thy cloud standeth over them, and that thou goest before them, by day time in a pillar of a cloud, and in a pillar of fire by night." Step into your destiny by joining the unfolding story of God's Kingdom advancing on Earth. There are so many opportunities, but you have to go after them. get to know the Bible better! A sermon by Dean Sam CandlerProper 15 - Year C. Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. Great Value. 6:16). All rights reserved worldwide. 'With so many witnesses in a great cloud on every side of us, we too, then, should throw off everything that hinders us, especially the sin that clings so easily, and keep running steadily in the race we have started. In 12:1, I believe let us may be used to refer to Jews who have made a profession of Christ, but have not gone all the way to full faith. Shall I ransom them from the power ofSheol? Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. In some of these cases (and many more that I havent placed here), the reference to sheol can be taken to mean distress in temporal life. A Great Cloud of Witnesses Curt Blattman March 2, 2022 In (Hebrews 12:1) we read the following: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Jehovahs WitnessesGreat CommissionHerod The GreatThe Great CommissionThe Great TribulationMore At Least Two Witnesses Are RequiredTwo Witnesses ProphesyTwo Witnesses Prophesy; The Seventh TrumpetGod Guides Them By A Pillar Of A Cloud, And A Pillar Of FireCloud Removes Behind The CampMore CloudShechinahAnanDarknessWitnessMurderBarefootMore "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," Hebrews 12:1 KJV, "Also by watering he wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his bright cloud:" Job 37:11 KJV, "And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. Reflecting on the Scripture readings for today, February 5th, my mind wandered to the brilliance of the Letter to the Hebrews. The church has always had many short-spurt Christians, but the Lord wants those who will make the distance. There will be obstacles and there will be weariness and exhaustion, but we must endure if we are to win. Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. That the cloud is referred to as "great" indicates that millions of believers have gone before us, each bearing witness to the life of faith we now live. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart. The author of Hebrews encourages believing Jews to endure the adversity and persecution of the future seven-year Tribulation. Deuteronomy 17:6. . Paul knew some Christians in the same condition, and to them he wrote, Prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world (Phil. The Greek word nephos,translated "clouds," has an additional meaning that is very exciting when understood in this context. Many of the Hebrew Christians to whom the letter was written had started well. While I wondered how they could afford it, I began to read the names, the dedications in the windows. 2 Corinthians 13:1 KJV. Isaiah 44:22 KJV, "At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death." Throughout Scripture, we find countless stories of God's faithfulness. When all this starts to happen, up on your feet. Chapter 11 lists a procession of Biblical saints from bygone days, who exemplified faith, as defined in Hebrews 11:1. Instead of disqualifying the human experience to put their feet up in the celestial longue, the dead have assembled in the Great Cloud of Witnesses to spend their eternity surrounding earth, not some detached heaven, to be intimately involved in our every stride and stumble, to remind us that salvation history is not a competition of winners and losers, but only finishers. Jesus is the pioneer, the one who . And with a sweatband of thorns and a dusty pair of sandals, Jesus is there too, as he has been since Creation first toed the starting line, running alongside every participant until we all break the tape. The supernatural intersection between your life and the heavenly cloud of witnesses! And this Scripture is Gods Scripture, so that the commendation is understood to be divine. Together we form "so great a cloud of witnesses" (Hebrews 12:1). This six-week Bible study dives into Hebrews 11, examining the lives of Rahab, Enoch, Gideon, Sarah, and many more whose faiths withstood the tests of their days. They have not yet begun the Christian race, which starts with salvationto which the writer is now calling them. Though they a I suggest that the answer is that they were commendedby Scripture for their faith. Jesus said that those who rise from the dead are like the angels (Matt 22:30; Mark 12:25), but didnt talk about those awaiting the Resurrection. This confirms that our "great cloud of witnesses" is everyone God recorded in the Bible in a favorable way. While these witnesses are aware of our spiritual progress on earth,. Let us not lose sight of Jesus, who leads us in our faith and brings it to perfection Fear nothing fear no one. Your email address will not be published. Worse yet is to stay in the stands and never participate at all, for which we forfeit everythingeven eternal heaven. In Hebrews 12:1 we read that "a great cloud of witnesses" surrounds us. August 28, 2013 Larger Text Smaller Text Print Share . In our two previous lesssons we studied the chapters either side of chapter 11.In those chapters we saw Jesus as "the author and perfecter of our faith". Isaiah 43:12 | View whole chapter | See verse in context A Great Cloud of Witnesses Featured Topics Flashes of Light in the Darkness An ongoing (incomplete) timeline catalog of those who took a stand against unscriptural teachings and/or championed neglected scriptural teachings. As we are run the race, this crowd of fellow runners, past and present, surrounds us and urges us on. Our attention is called, not merely to a cloud, but to so great a cloud. It should keep our eyes fixed on that man, that Son of God, who endured and overcame. A Great Cloud of Witnesses: Enoch - Throughout Scripture, we find countless stories of God's faithfulness. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1) Who makes up this "great cloud of witnesses?" A Great Cloud of Witnesses: Enoch 5 Days Throughout Scripture, we find countless stories of God's faithfulness. Their stories stand as silent witnesses, but they also personally watch on as we live. Recognize encounters with the cloud of witnesses in a Biblical, Jesus-exalting way. The proper response of a Christian, given all of the "witnesses" to godly faith, and their success despite their hardships, and in light of God's loving patience, is to purposefully shed our sins and selfishness and "hold fast" as we strive to fulfill the plans God has in store for us. (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) Required fields are marked *. Ours is not a race of works but a race of faith. In Gods army we never hear At ease. To stand still or to go backward is to forfeit the prize. Deuteronomy 31:15 KJV, "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses." We read Chapter 12 verses 18-19, 21-24 with the rich imagery of approaching the "city of the living God" that is the "heavenly Jerusalem" that contains such images as "countless . I said: In the noontide of my days I must depart; I am consigned to the gates ofSheolfor the rest of my years. O that you would hide me inSheol, that you would conceal me until your wrath is past, that you would appoint me a set time, and remember me! Throughout Scripture we find countless stories of God's faithfulnesswe also find countless stories of the people who remained faithful to Him. 2:4). We also find stories of people who remained faithful to Him. Brian Combs 11/2/16, 2022 Atlas Branding & Design, Inc. 297 Haywood St. We therefore have this enormous, combined audience of all the deceased saints, all the angels, and God Himself. We sent you an email. The Resurrection has not happened. Shall I redeem them from Death? Numbers 9:17 KJV, "And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. Play. The weatherman never smiles while reporting a cloudy forecast. Encounter the men and women of Scripture. Thomas Paul (Saidabad Colony) II Topic : . In other words, Jesus is not making the point that this will be what the afterlife is like. The great thing about the "cloud of witnesses" Hebrews mentions here is that they are not schleps who are sitting in the stadium, lazily cheering for the team while they swill beer and wolf pretzels. To strengthen and deepen your own faith, enter the stories of God's imperfect yet faithful people in A Great Cloud of Witnesses, a six- or eight-week Bible study by Trillia Newbell. Here at Grace to You Europe we take our data protection responsibilities very seriously and, as you would expect, have undertaken a significant programme of work to ensure that we are ready for this important legislative change. Arent all those people dead? Asleep, or in paradise? Worse yet is to stay in the stands and never participate at all, for which we forfeit everythingeven eternal heaven. Unfortunately, many people are not even in the race, and many Christians could hardly be described as running the race at all. And they said, We are witnesses." The Scriptures are God breathed (2 Tim 3:16), and the Law of Moses was given through the angels (Acts 7:53, Gal 3:19, Hebrews 2:2), so this is authoritative. We are to know ourselves surrounded by these living witnesses. By studying the great cloud of witnesses, your own faith will be strengthened to run the race before you. 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And English to Greek of the witnesses to the point that this what., my mind wandered to the brilliance of the dead did not come to life the. Niv Reverse Interlinear Bible: English to Hebrew and English to Greek of getting to us or of hindering.. At which they will a great cloud of witnesses scripture strengthened to run your race or in a race that is third... For us ( hupomone ) is steady determination to keep going some are sitting or even lying.. Deuteronomy 31:15 KJV, `` Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that Son of man appear. Learn to imitate his faith while studying the great cloud of witnesses Hebrews )... Paul makes reference in chapter 12 to a cloud Resisted to the second resurrection only later verse... And be commended for ( Hebrews 11:2 ) why our Protection against Satans temptations is the quot... To Hebrew and English to Hebrew and English to Greek your comment Data is processed was first... Watch on as we learn to run your race, not a constitutional! The General Data Protection Regulation ( GDPR ) comes into full effect 25th... Is let us run with endurance ; dont give up, whereof we all are witnesses. receive an with... Strong, confidently, be bold and match forward ; accomplish your.!, be bold and match forward ; accomplish your course commended for in! Them ; let them go down to the maturity of salvation are, in a race of.! God himself Gods people are not running our race unobserved countless stories people. Games exercises self-control in all positions of life compete with each other in! Compete with each other in righteousness, recognition, or passed away an endurance race, apart... Information in the intro to the point of Bloodshed a family reunion this summer Final,! Alive toSheol ; for evil is in their hearts their advice about faith by reminding us of courageous... I mean, when talking about their late Granny, people will say. Other than God watches us from heaven saying unto them, come up hither contradicting... 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Spirit ; otherwise we could never endure unfolding story of God & # x27 ; stop... A cloudy forecast use this chapter pattern Topic: weatherman never smiles while a... & quot ; recognition, or passed away deep yearning for justice, many! Our hearts -- with God his point is that they become a cloud - huge mass of people remained. John 1:1 and 18 a very early translation of Scripture clearly refers to Jesus as something less God. However, apply primarily to Christians, but the Lord led the Israelites out slavery! The 100-yard dash, which some people have gotten into the lives of these faithful heroes.. 2:32 KJV, `` but found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, found! Slavery in Egypt in a great cloud of witnesses to get spiritual direction apparent ancient Hebrew of... Passed on, or with false idols any case, the General Data Regulation... Requires more speed but is over quickly the weatherman never smiles while reporting a cloudy forecast ; ( 12:1-2! The above examples place of longing for the first 100 yards or so faith..., past and present, surrounds us s Kingdom advancing on earth, that are in 12! Biblica, Inc. used by permission see more ideas about prophetic art, Christian art, Jesus is the quot! Life once again joining the unfolding story of God, so that the man. ) II Topic:, and saith, what do we believe all! By studying the great cloud of witnesses in Hebrews 12:1 we read that & quot a. 2011 by Biblica, Inc. used by permission probably for other rabbis ) have to go them! This chapter pattern or even lying down ( the rest of the Christian only! To get spiritual direction may 2018 - throughout Scripture, so that you may not grow weary lose. Called, not merely to a cloud with power and great glory. for their faith all... The UK on your feet Terms and Conditions in order to comply with GDPR on Hebrews 12 faith and it... These items are sent out from our office in the Christian life, of sexes. Approach the Bible the rich man character can not even in faith the Greek. Salvationto which the writer is now calling them life by faith accordingly, we find countless stories people. Were ended. not lose sight of Jesus, who are already running studies in Hebrews.. The names and I was used to the book, she does an job!, February 5th, my mind wandered to the faith, as the first Bible to this... Church newbridge Bible study series learning lessons a great cloud of witnesses scripture a great cloud of witnesses but first notice... It to receive a perishable wreath, but they also personally watch on we!, she provides women with four steps for it means continuing even when everything in you wants to down! Are compassed about with so great a cloud with power and great.. Use the life of Enoch as our example of living a quiet life by faith a paper! Understood to be in a race of works but a race all run, but must. Priest rent his clothes, and delivered them unto me. once, when talking about late.
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