The eleventh chapter of Hebrews has been called the roll call of faith. It lists a great number of luminaries who obeyed God, motivated by their faith toward Him.
We are told in Romans 10:17, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Each of these individuals heard God’s word and believed it. This led to their actions and their acceptance by God.
“By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible” (Hebrews 11:3). The Bible affirms that the Word became flesh (John 1:14). That “Word” “was with God and was God” (John 1:1-4). We were not there to see it, but we believe because God in His word tells us it is so.
“By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain…” (Hebrews 11:4). Abel’s sacrifice was accepted by God because he did what God told him to do. He was a righteous man.
“By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death” (Hebrews 11:5). The text of Genesis 5:22 states that Enoch “walked with God.” Hebrews 11:5 says it was a walk of faith. The two are synonymous. Enoch was blessed by doing the will of God.
“By faith Noah, … moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became the heir of righteousness which is according to faith” (Hebrews 11:7). Note again that Abraham demonstrated his faith by building the ark; though he had “not yet seen” the cataclysm that was promised.
“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance” (Hebrews 11:8). The particular statement directly marries faith with obedience. Note: his going out would not have been an outgrowth of his faith had he not been told to leave.
“By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceived seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised” (Hebrews 11:11). The faith of a Christian is steadfast, not because of we ourselves, but because of Him who make the promise. Paul was sure he would receive the “crown of righteousness” because it was the Lord who had promised to give it to him. (cf. 2 Timothy 4:6-8).
Hebrews 11 is not just a list of the faithful. It also is a chapter that teaches us important truths about our faith. “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them…” (11).
