Pastor Brian Wilkie - A Great Cloud Of Witnesses - October 18th, 2026 - Bible Study

Bible Reading

Hebrews 11:39-12:2

“And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. 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, 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.”

[35:37]

Luke 18:8

“I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

[32:31]

Matthew 9:2-6

“And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, 'Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.' And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, 'This man is blaspheming.' But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, 'Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins'—he then said to the paralytic—'Rise, pick up your bed and go home.”

[01:01:28]

Observation questions

1. In Hebrews 11:39–12:2, what actions are believers told to take as they run the race of faith, and where are they told to fix their eyes?
2. What does Hebrews say Jesus endured, and what was set before him as he endured it? [36:43]
3. According to Luke 18:8, what searching question does Jesus ask about the condition of faith when he returns? [32:31]
4. In Matthew 9:2–6, what does Jesus announce to the paralyzed man before telling him to get up and walk? [01:01:28]

Interpretation questions

1. The “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 12 follows a long list of people who trusted God through suffering and loss. How can their lives encourage believers today without requiring the idea that departed saints are watching every moment? [39:22]
2. Jesus endured the cross and disregarded its shame. Why can ridicule, misunderstanding, or public embarrassment make Christian witness difficult, even when no one is facing physical persecution? [38:01]
3. Hebrews calls believers to lay aside both sin and every weight. What might be the difference between a clear sin and a “weight” that slows a person’s faithfulness?
4. Jesus forgave and healed the paralytic without forcing the man into a neat religious script. What does this show about Jesus’ authority, grace, and care for people whose stories do not fit expected formulas? [01:02:03]

Application questions

1. God’s faithfulness through earlier generations is both a gift and a calling. What kind of spiritual legacy would each person hope to leave for children, grandchildren, newer believers, or people not yet part of the church? [32:54]
2. Is there a place where fear of being judged, mocked, or misunderstood has made you quieter about your faith? What would it look like to keep looking to Jesus rather than letting shame decide your response? [38:41]
3. Consider the four parts of a balanced Christian life: Scripture, prayer, fellowship, and witnessing. Which area feels strongest right now, and which area may be neglected or out of balance? [50:11]
4. How can this group become a place where fellowship truly looks like good news to someone who has been hurt by family conflict, church conflict, or loneliness? [47:36]
5. What is one quiet way God has sustained, protected, forgiven, guided, or carried you through a difficult season? How might that part of your story become a simple and honest testimony? [01:04:03]
6. Some people have dramatic stories of rescue, while others have been protected from roads that could have brought deep harm. How can you give thanks for God’s work in your life without comparing your story to someone else’s? [57:05]