How we cite our quotes:
Quote #7
Others were tortured, refusing to accept release, in order to obtain a better resurrection. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death, they were sawn in two, they were killed by the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, persecuted, tormented—of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. (Hebrews 11:35-38, NRSV)
Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. (Hebrews 11:35-38, KJV)
Ah, role models. Even back in the Hebrew Bible, people were being killed for their faith in God. Suffering is nothing new, and the author says that readers should look to these martyrs as examples of faith and goodness in the face of adversity. It's a pretty tall order.
Quote #8
Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2, NRSV)
Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2, KJV)
Sure, the crucifixion was shameful, pain-filled ordeal, but it led to good things. That's a pretty sweet throne up there in Heaven.
Quote #9
Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. (Hebrews 13:3, NRSV)
Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. (Hebrews 13:3, KJV)
Have a little empathy, says the author. Other Christians are suffering, and the author wants his readers to remember that. Translation: imagine yourself in their shoes and think of how you would feel.