Renewing Your Mind Podcast Summary
Episode: Run the Race with Endurance
Release Date: June 26, 2025
Host/Author: Ligonier Ministries
Speaker: R.C. Sproul

Introduction: Embracing the Call to Endurance

The episode "Run the Race with Endurance" from Ligonier Ministries' Renewing Your Mind podcast features longtime theologian R.C. Sproul delivering a profound message centered on Hebrews 12. Sproul opens with a compelling exhortation to transition from mere walking to running with endurance in the Christian faith.

R.C. Sproul [00:00]: "Let's not go back, let's not be slack. Let's pick up the pace, let's move ahead. Let's move from walking to run and running with endurance, looking not backwards, not to the side, but looking at the finish line and watching for Jesus."

This powerful call sets the tone for the discussion, emphasizing the importance of steadfastness and focus on the ultimate goal—Jesus.

The Heroes of Faith: Lessons from Hebrews 11

Sproul delves into Hebrews chapter 11, often referred to as the "Hall of Faith," which chronicles the lives of numerous Old Testament figures who exemplified unwavering faith. He highlights the concluding verse of Hebrews 11:13, expressing deep emotional resonance each time he revisits it.

R.C. Sproul [01:35]: "They embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland."

Sproul underscores how these individuals, such as Abraham and Moses, dedicated their lives to pursuing godliness, obeying, and trusting God, even without seeing the fulfillment of His promises within their lifetimes.

Moses: A Portrait of Enduring Faith

A significant portion of the episode is devoted to Moses, one of the most prominent figures in the Bible. Sproul narrates Moses' transformation from a privileged prince in Pharaoh's court to a shepherd in the wilderness, exemplifying true faith and obedience.

R.C. Sproul [06:15]: "Moses is skilled. He's trained virtually as a knight. He punches the guard and he kills him... But somebody saw it and tried to blackmail him. And so, because Moses acted with integrity, risking his status, his position, his life in the royal court, he lost everything overnight."

Sproul paints a vivid picture of Moses' internal struggle and the external consequences of his courageous act to save a Hebrew slave. This act of faith resulted in Moses becoming a fugitive, raising questions about God's plan and his purpose during his time in exile.

R.C. Sproul [13:45]: "Then God speaks, said Moses, Moses, put off your shoes. This is holy ground. I have a job for you. You have a date with destiny."

This moment at the burning bush marks the turning point where Moses receives his divine calling to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, showcasing the rewards of enduring faith despite prolonged periods of hardship and uncertainty.

The Essence of Faith: Trust and Faithfulness

Sproul emphasizes that faith is not merely about trusting God for future promises but also about being faithful in daily obedience. He highlights that true faith manifests in consistent actions aligned with God's will.

R.C. Sproul [19:30]: "Faith always yields the fruit of obedience. These were people whom God could count on. Not only people who trusted God, but God could trust them because they were faithful people."

He further explores how the author of Hebrews celebrates these faithful individuals not to serve as direct models but to inspire and encourage believers to remain steadfast in their own spiritual journeys.

R.C. Sproul [22:10]: "We see elements of virtue that are inspiring to us. We see ways in which they honored God and pleased God and the way in which God used them."

Sproul addresses common misconceptions about faith, particularly the idea that being faithful means withdrawing from life's engagements. Instead, he asserts that biblical faithfulness often involves courageous and valiant actions, even in the face of adversity.

R.C. Sproul [23:50]: "The Bible celebrates faithful soldiers, people who were valiant in the midst of warfare... Because faith can do."

Conclusion: Running the Race with Endurance

In his concluding remarks, Sproul reinforces the primary message of running the Christian race with unwavering endurance. He urges believers to lay aside every weight and sin, maintaining focus on Jesus, the ultimate example of faith and perseverance.

R.C. Sproul [24:05]: "Let's run with endurance the race that is set before us, not for falling out every six feet, but running it with endurance, looking to Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith."

Sproul encapsulates the essence of Hebrews 12 by drawing parallels between the Old Testament heroes and the believer's journey today. He calls for a collective movement towards the promised land, inspired by the "cloud of witnesses" who have run the race before.

R.C. Sproul [24:13]: "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us... watching for Jesus, who has gone before us through the heavens... and who stands at the door and beckons us to keep coming, keep moving to the promised land."

Key Takeaways

• Endurance in Faith: The Christian journey requires steadfastness and the ability to persevere through challenges while keeping the ultimate goal in sight.

• Inspiration from the Past: The lives of Old Testament figures serve as powerful examples of what it means to live by faith, demonstrating both trust in God and consistent obedience.

• Active Faithfulness: True faith is evidenced by active and courageous actions, not passive belief. It involves making difficult choices that honor God, even at personal cost.

• Focus on Jesus: Maintaining focus on Jesus as the ultimate example and source of strength is crucial for running the race with endurance.

This episode of Renewing Your Mind offers a rich and engaging exploration of Hebrews 12, encouraging believers to embrace a life of enduring faith inspired by biblical heroes and centered on Jesus Christ.