Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith
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.
Listen to the "Verse by Verse" episode covering this scripture.
Christians have the priceless privilege of looking to Jesus as our leader (the Greek word translated “author” here is the same one translated “captain” in Hebrews 2:10). He is also our finisher, the One who perfects us.
Jesus Christ was willing to endure not only the pain of crucifixion, but the shame that was associated with sinners being hung on a tree (Galatians 3:13; Deuteronomy 21:23).
He looked beyond the terrible trial and was inspired to continue. He knew He would not only return to His Father, but that He would make it possible for more sons and daughters to share in the joy of God’s family.
For more about how we are to follow Jesus Christ’s example, see “Christ in Us: How Does He Live in You?” See also our article “I Am the Alpha and the Omega.”