23
May '25
What a Great Cloud of Witnesses
23
May '25
Introduction: Do you ever think about your loved ones who have already passed away? What are they doing in heaven? What will heaven be like? The writer to the book of Hebrews—many believe to be Paul—pulls back the curtain in heaven to allow us to get a glimpse of what they may be doing.
1. Who are ahead of us? This goes back to the “Heroes of the Hall of Faith”! (Hebrews 11:1–12:1) – “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses.”
As you are probably aware, the word “witnesses” is μάρτυς, which means martyr—those who have died because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Whereas, the word “encompassed” means surrounded.
Admittedly, there are different interpretations of this passage. For instance, some understand this to be those who have gone before us—referencing chapter 11. Others include all saints of all ages. Either way, it is clearly referring to many followers of Jesus Christ in heaven.
Now whether they are able to “cheer” us on from heaven’s balcony or not is debatable. Nevertheless, God the Holy Spirit wants us to know of this great cloud of witnesses. Do you know some?
2. What should we leave behind? (Hebrews 12:1) – “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”
Because of knowing about this “great cloud of witnesses,” as believers we are to run in this race of holiness, letting go of every impediment. Are you holding on to anything that you need to throw aside?
3. Where shall we look? (Hebrews 12:2) – “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
After laying aside any distractions or hindrances, our focus needs to be on JESUS! Why? Because He finished His redemptive MISSION on earth, sat down at the right of the Father, and has promised to come again. That brings HOPE to a HOPELESS world!
Conclusion: Are you ready to join the “Great Cloud of Witnesses”? It may not be long. This Memorial Day, do not think only about those who have fought and sacrificed for our freedom but also about those saints who have gone before us. More importantly, REMEMBER the ultimate sacrifice for our sins by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Then you will have a BLESSED MEMORIAL DAY!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese