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 is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Looking unto, х aforoontes (G872)] - 'from afar' (note, Hebrews 11:26); fixing the eyes upon Jesus seated on the throne of God.
Author - `Prince-leader.' х Archeegon (G747)] "Captain (of salvation)," Hebrews 2:10; "Prince (of life)," Acts 3:15. Going before us as Originator of our faith, and the Leaner whose matchless example we are to follow always. The examples of faith in Hebrews 11:1-40 are to be followed only so far as they followed Christ (Hebrews 11:26; Hebrews 13:8: cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1). On His "faith," cf. Hebrews 2:13; Hebrews 3:2.
Finisher, х teleioteen (G5051)] - 'perfecter' (Hebrews 11:40).
Of our faith - Greek, 'of the faith,' including both His faith (as exhibited in what follows) and ours. He fulfilled the ideal of faith, and so, both as a vicarious offering and an example, He is the object of faith.
For the joy that was set before him - namely, of presently after sitting down at the right hand of the throne of God as a Prince and Saviour, to give repentance and remission of sins. The coming joy disarmed of its sting the present pain.
Cross ... shame - the great stumblingblock to the Hebrews. 'Despised' - i:e., disregarded.