By: Emma Seay
Hebrews 12:1-3 says “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
For the last session, on Friday, February 12th, Dr. Scott Duvall, Professor of New Testament and J. C. and Mae Fuller Chair of Biblical Studies, solely focused on what the Lord was communicating through the author of Hebrews particularly about how to persevere even when sin entangles us.
“Overall, I thought the session was very organized and I liked the way Dr. Duvall was able to break down the passage and point out the key important aspects of this passage in Hebrews,” said Kristopher Torres, sophomore Christian Studies major from Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
Even though it was very refreshing to just dive into Scripture and exegete this passage especially at the end of a week full of learning new information, Duvall did a great job on interpreting what the author of Hebrews was trying to say while also helping the audience learn how to apply it to their everyday lives.
“I really liked how Duvall said that sometimes you have to say no to things, even good things that glorify God,” said Torres. “Because in my life I am bombarded with different things, even though some of them may be good, I don’t want to be trapped by busyness but instead focusing on rest and fixing my eyes on Jesus.”
This talk was definitely a good ending to the Bold Approach theme of Christian Focus Week. After a week filled with volunteering with different events in Campus Ministries or with learning to manage time with school work, a social life, and a time to serve on this campus, sometimes we have to give up some of the fun activities in order to fully rest.
“I learned that it is okay to put aside things that are just okay for things that are great and persevering in my Walk with Christ,” said Torres.
Overall this week has been a week full of challenges and spiritual encouragement for students on Ouachita’s campus. Hopefully after such a great week full of conviction to Boldly Approach the throne of God, students’ hearts will continue to open and yearn for God’s will.
