Christianity is not a cult of hero-worship. It is centered on Jesus Christ and exists because of his death and resurrection. This great cloud of witnesses encourages and inspires us, but the One who keeps us in the race is Christ alone. Reflection Text: Psalm 8:1-9 Sermon Text: Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. > 1. STRIP (v1a) * Strip off HINDRANCES * Strip off pet SINS Question: What are the hindrances and pet sins that are clinging closely in your life? 2. RUN (v1b) * with ENDURANCE * THE RACE THAT IS SET BEFORE US 3. FOCUS (v2) * on JESUS LINK to the Biblical Research on Athletic Imagery mentioned in the sermon: https://www.gracecovenantcharlotte.com/blog/bible-research-athletic-imagery