Part_1_-_I_CANT_GIVE_UP_NOW_by_PASTOR_EJ.pdf

of the Sermon:**

In this sermon, “I Can’t Give Up Now,” we explored Hebrews 12:1-2 and the call to run the race of faith with endurance. Using the analogy of cross country running, I shared how the Christian journey is not a sprint but a long-distance race, filled with hills, mud, and unexpected turns. We looked at the struggles of the early church, who were tempted to give up and turn back because of persecution and hardship. The message emphasized three main points: we are not alone in this race, we must be willing to let go of weights and sins that slow us down, and above all, we must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before Him, and we are called to follow His example, focusing not on our pain but on the reward and the One who has already secured victory for us.

**K

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Key Takeaways

• 1. You Are Not Running Alone: The “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 12 are not just spectators, but testimonies—lives that prove God’s faithfulness in every season. Their stories remind us that our struggles are not unique, and that others have endured and finished well. When you feel isolated in your faith, remember that you are part of a much larger story, and God’s people—past and present—testify that endurance is possible.
• 2. Letting Go Is Essential for Progress: The text distinguishes between “weights” and “sins”—not everything that slows us down is sinful, but anything that hinders our walk with Christ must be laid aside. Sometimes, it’s relationships, habits, or even good things that are not God’s best for us in this season. Spiritual growth often requires honest self-examination and the courage to release what is holding us back, trusting that God’s pace and path are better than our own.
• 3. Endurance Is Not About Strength, But Focus: Like cross country runners, we are called to keep going even when the terrain is rough and our strength is gone. The secret is not in our own willpower, but in where we fix our gaze. Looking to Jesus—who endured the cross and is now seated in victory—gives us the perspective and hope we need to keep moving forward, even when quitting feels easier.
• 4. Faith Is a Gift, Not an Achievement: The sermon reminded us that Jesus is both the author and finisher of our faith. Our ability to believe, to endure, and to finish the race is not something we muster up, but something God gives and perfects in us. When your faith feels weak or insufficient, remember that it is God who supplies what you lack, and He will carry you through to the finish.
• 5. Focus on the Joy Set Before You: Jesus endured unimaginable suffering by focusing on the joy and reward beyond the cross—reconciliation with His people and the promise of eternal life. Likewise, we are called to shift our perspective from the pain and trials of today to the hope and glory that await us. Let your heart be anchored not in present circumstances, but in the certainty of Christ’s victory and the promise that He has prepared a place for you.

**Bible Study Discussion Guide: “I Can’t Give Up Now”**

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### Bible Reading

**Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV)**
> 1. 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.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Hebrews 12:1-2, what are the two things we are told to “lay aside” before running the race of faith?
2. In the passage, who makes up the “cloud of witnesses,” and what is their role in our journey?
3. What does the text say Jesus focused on as He endured the cross?
4. Based on the sermon, what is the difference between a “weight” and a “sin” in the context of our spiritual race?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The “cloud of witnesses” are described as testimonies, not just spectators. How does knowing others have finished the race before us help someone who feels alone or discouraged in their faith?
2. The sermon points out that not all weights are sins, but both can slow us down. Why might it be hard for someone to let go of things that aren’t necessarily sinful, but still hold them back?
3. The passage says Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him.” What does this suggest about how believers should handle suffering or hardship?
4. The sermon says faith is a gift from God, not something we achieve on our own. How might this truth change the way someone responds when their faith feels weak or shaky?

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon talked about not running alone and being part of a bigger story. When was a time you felt isolated in your faith? Who are some “witnesses” (past or present) whose stories encourage you to keep going?
2. Think about your own life: Is there a “weight” (not necessarily a sin) that is slowing down your walk with Christ right now? What would it look like to lay it aside this week?
3. The message challenged us to let go of both weights and sins. Is there a habit, relationship, or commitment that you sense God is asking you to release? What’s holding you back from letting it go?
4. The sermon used the analogy of cross country running—sometimes the terrain is rough and you feel like quitting. What are some “muddy hills” or obstacles you’re facing in your faith journey right now? How can the group pray for you to endure?
5. The text says to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. What are some practical ways you can shift your focus from your current struggles to Jesus this week? Is there a specific distraction you need to address?
6. The sermon reminded us that faith is a gift, not an achievement. When your faith feels weak, what helps you remember that God is the one who supplies what you lack? Is there a verse, song, or practice that encourages you?
7. Jesus endured the cross by focusing on the joy and reward ahead. What is the “joy set before you” that motivates you to keep running your race? How can you remind yourself of this hope when you feel like giving up?

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**Closing Prayer Suggestion:**
Ask God to help each person in the group identify and lay aside any weights or sins, to remember they are not alone, and to keep their eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith. Pray for endurance and for hearts anchored in the hope of Christ’s victory.