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… —Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)

…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. —Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.

He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.
To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. —Colossians 1:28-29 (NIV)

The Main Thing

Reach them.

“‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” —Luke 14:23 (NIV)

Warn them.

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. —2 Timothy 4:2 (NIV)

Teach them.

…before people can ask the Lord for help, they must believe in him; and before they can believe in him, they must hear about him; and for them to hear about the Lord, someone must tell them… —Romans 10:14 (NCV)

Final Words

My manner.

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. —Colossians 4:5-6 (NLT)

My moment.

The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. —Psalm 37:23 (NLT)

Our message.

…if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. —1 Peter 3:15 (NLT)

Discussion Questions

How does having a “cloud of witnesses” watching as you run your race make you feel?

Hebrews 12:1 tells us to “throw off every hinders and the sin that so easily entangles”. What are some things you personally have had to “throw off” in order to run more effectively?

Hebrews 12:2 says, “…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith”. What does that mean to you?

Read Matthew 28:19-20. We call this The Great Commission. How often do you think about it during the week? Why?

When it comes to The Great Commission, Paul said, “To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me”. How often do you think Paul thought about the Great Commission?

What are some ways you can increase your awareness and more fully participate in The Great Commission?