1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
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 has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
we (v.1) — Hebrews
we also (v.1) — refers to running a race, not the witnesses
cloud of witnesses (v.1) — those referred to in chapter 11
cloud (v.1) = one covering the entire sky
witnesses (v.1) — those testifying about faith — examples of faith, not spectators
weight (v.1) — not just sin, but anything that burdens the runner
snares (v.1) = cleverly placed around — trip up
race (v.1) — Psalm 19:5
set before (v.1) — lie in full view
looking (v.2) = looking earnestly — looking away from everything else — Jesus is the perfect example of faith.
our (v.2) — not in the original
author and finisher (v.2) — leader (author), one who completes (finisher) — chief leader — Jesus Christ is the pattern and motivation for our faith.
for the joy (v.2) = instead of — Jesus renounced the joy He had for the shame and suffering of the cross. — Philippians 2:6-8
sat down (v.2) — tense indicates action with permanent effects — a finished work