Look to those who have gone .
1 Corinthians 9:24
Acts 20:24
2 Timothy 4:7
Lay aside the things that .
Lay aside the sin that .
Romans 13:13-14
1 Corinthians 10:13
Small Group Questions
- Read Hebrews 12:1-2. Verse 1 uses a racing analogy to illustrate how we are to live out our faith. Compare and contrast differences between the mindset of someone who is running to compete in a marathon versus someone who runs occasionally just to stay in shape? How do you think these mindsets parallel our walk with Christ?
- How are we supposed to “lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us” as described in verse 1? (Rom 12:2, James 4:7, Psalm 26:2, Luke 21:34, Matt 5:29-30, Prov 28:13).
- What would be some potential consequences if we do not obey this verse that could affect us and others?
(Gal 6:7-8, 2 Sam 11-12, Rom 1:24-25, Num 32:23, Prov 4:23)
- What are some sins or weights in your life that are keeping you from running the race well? Read Hebrews 12:2, 1 Peter 2:21, Mark 11:29 Read Matthew 16:24 Read Roman 15:5, John 13:15, 2 Cor 10:1
- At times, running the race of faith can seem impossible for us to finish. The weights and sins that can ensnare us can sometimes seem like insurmountable obstacles to overcome. What truths from the Bible can we use to ground us in our hope and motivation to continue to run the race of faith? (example: John 10:27-29)
- Read Hebrews 12:2, 1 Peter 2:21, and 2 Cor 10:1. How is Bethel church following Christ’s example? What are we doing well? What are some struggles you face as a believer in imitating Christ’s example toward other believers and toward unbelievers?
Prayer Prompt
Hebrews 12:1 uses “us” multiple times, emphasizing how the author is talking to a group of people. Pray for God’s help for us to be aware of how we are to live lives of faith together, as well as for his help to recognize and repent of the sin that easily ensnares us.
Application
Talk to 1-2 other people in small group or at church about specific ways to live out the unity we are called to have as believers, as described in Romans 15:5.