Hebrews 12:4-17

Run with endurance -- Hebrews 12:4-17: Christians must be faithful, even during the worst of suffering. Christ suffered, even unto death. His sufferings are contrasted with the sufferings of the Hebrew Christians. The statement that they had not "yet resisted unto blood" was a warning of more severe trials ahead.

The writer wanted these brethren to understand that their sufferings were grounded in the love and benevolent purpose of God. "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth." (Hebrews 12:6) He does not overlook any of His children in giving the chastisement that is needed.

Some who run get beaten down. The faithful must help them be able to run with endurance. "Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed." (Hebrews 12:12-13)

Those who fail to endure are like Esau. They are profane. A profane person is the opposite of one who endures in the Christian life. A Christian who turns back is giving up something even more valuable than Esau's birthright. The person who fails to run with endurance is giving up his eternal salvation.