The portraits of faith begin here with two individuals from the early years of men. Abel (Adam’s second son) offered a sacrifice by faith. (Note: Faith comes by hearing God’s word, cf Romans 10:17). Abel did what God directed, his older brother Cain did not. Abel’s reward – though “being dead” his righteous example still speaks to us.
Enoch, sixth generation from Adam “walked with God; and he was not, for God took him” (Genesis 5:24). Hebrews 11 explains that “walked with God” indicated Enoch’s faithful obedience pleased God. This gives us a very important truth regarding how to please God.
This is indicated in verse 6. Without faith, (generated from God’s word), it in not possible to please God. Note that here faith is not at all separated from obedience. The first aspect of faith mentioned is an acknowledgement of God’s existence. The second aspect of this faith that is mentioned in verse 6 is obedience. Consider the writer’s words, “that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
We are saved by faith. That faith is an obedient faith! (cf. James 2:17).
