Run Like Jesus to the Finish Line - Santosh Poonen - July 22, 2018
http://rlcfchurch.org/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that in the Christian life, the focus must be on finishing the race with endurance, rather than on how one started. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 9 and Hebrews 12, the speaker emphasizes that the goal is to win the prize by keeping eyes fixed on the finish line. Believers must actively lay aside all hindrances, or 'encumbrances,' to run with perseverance until the end.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Christian Life as a RaceWhile the Old Testament speaks of walking a journey, the New Testament describes the Christian life as a race where the primary focus is the end.
Running to Win the PrizePaul instructs believers in 1 Corinthians to run in such a way that they personally receive the prize, maintaining forward focus rather than looking sideways.1 Corinthians 9:24
Laying Aside Every EncumbranceHebrews 12 calls believers to run with endurance by casting off entangling sins and encumbrances with the end in mind.Hebrews 12:1
The Stadium Analogy of Spectators and RunnersBelievers face a choice in their mentality between being a spectator sitting in a seat or an active participant wearing a runner's bib.
Old Testament Heroes and Something BetterAlthough Old Testament figures gained approval through faith and had seats in the stadium, God provided something better for New Covenant believers.Hebrews 11:39
Choosing the Runner's MentalityInstead of merely watching others fulfill God's plan, believers are called to shake off doubt and receive a runner's number to become like Jesus.
Drawing Near by a New and Living WayBecause Jesus inaugurated a new way through His flesh and acts as our great High Priest, believers can draw near with full assurance of faith.Hebrews 10:19
Stimulating One Another to Love and Good DeedsBelievers must not waver under exhaustion or sin, but rather come alongside struggling brothers and sisters to encourage them and gather together.
