Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
December 14, 2022: SOAP #4759: Hebrews 12-13; Jude

SCRIPTURE:  Hebrews (NIV) 12:1 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. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

OBSERVATION:  When the Bible was written, the books were not broken into chapters and verses.  The verses above directly follow the previous passage about Old Testament heroes that overcame by their faith.  Some accomplished great things, some merely stood true, some were killed, but all were commended for their faith. 
— So, now what are these “heroes of faith” doing?  They are the “great cloud of witness” observing us. 

APPLICATION: I have had opportunity to watch several world cup soccer games the past few weeks.  Of course, the games take place on the field of play, but I can always hear the roar of the crowd cheering on their team.  From time to time, the camera focuses on the people in the stands.  Obviously, they are as involved in the game as the players on the field!  They respond to everything that happens on the soccer field.  And when their team scores…one would think that every fan personally kicked the ball into the goal!!!  
— And it is all for a game!  …a game to kick a ball into your goal more times than the opposing team kicks the ball into their goal!  
— But there is a crowd in heaven watching and rejoicing over every sinner who repents!  It must be a thunderous roar!!!  
— As I watch the excitement and congratulations poured onto the ones who made the goals, I think I get a picture of how heaven reacts when a believer prays with one to become a new creation in Christ Jesus!  Leading someone to Jesus has to be one of the greatest joys we can experience on earth!!!  

PRAYER:   Lord, I think that leading someone to you is the one thing I can do that is most closely tied to your sacrifice on Calvary.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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