Category: Faith

The last pre-Abrahamic paragon of faith mentioned by the Hebrew writer is Noah. To read the account of Noah’s life (including the flood) go to Genesis 6:8 – 9:29). There are many aspects of his life that are worthy of examination: The wickedness present in his age; his influence over his family; his preaching; his deliverence; his worship to God; God’s directions to him post-flood; God’s promises to him and his descendants.

The Hebrew writer chose to show how Noah’s amazing faith led to obedience. Moved with godly fear, he “prepared an ark for the saving of his household.” The writer says that this obedient faith “condemned the world.” This truth is affirmed by Jesus, who said the same of the queen of the south, and the men of Nineveh who would rise up in that generation to condemn it. (cf. Matthew 12:41-42). The contrast between faithful obedience and rebelliousness is clear.

Further, Noah’s faith made him an “heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” His blessing from God is not exclusive. It is shared by all those listed in Hebrews 11, and us too, as we become “heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:16) as we obtain this faith.

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).

The eleventh chapter of Hebrews is perhaps the best known chapter of the whole book. Given several names, a favorite is “God’s Hall of Fame of Faith.” The text begins with an explanation of faith itself.

Is it the substructure or foundation of our hope as Christians. Our faith is founded upon God’s promises. It is not merely a superstition or blind supposition, it is grounded in all that God has revealed and proved to mankind through the ages. All of the miracles, fulfilled prophecies, and ultimately the demonstration of God’s power over death in the resurrection of the Christ, give us an anchor or rock for our hope. We believe! We know! God will grant us eternal life!

Faith is the evidence needed to validate all things spiritual. Physical things are easy. To consistently focus on heaven and our future existence is harder. God has supplied the answers. We can know. This sustained the “elders” those who went before. It will sustain us as well.

The unbeliever wonders at our existence. He grapples with how we came to exist, why we are here. The Christian knows the answer – God!

A discussion of Philippians 3:3-11, identifying what uniquely has proper value for mankind, Jesus Christ.  It is necessary that we differentiate between Him and all else!

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An examination of Romans 10, where Paul establishes clearly the limitations of justification by the Old Law of Moses, as contrasted with salvation through faith in Christ. 

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Our faith needs to permeate every aspect of our lives.  Our homes, our schooling, our jobs, our interactions socially.  We should emanate the reflected light of our Lord!

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God chose to save the world through the gospel, the truth concerning the advent, life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus to the right hand of the Father reigning on His throne.  When we hear that gospel, our actions or lack thereof will determine whether we are saved . What must we do?

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Note:  PPTX presentation and verses supplied by Emberly Cox, age 9.

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The Hebrew writer ends this chapter with a “cause and effect” argument using his reference to the rebellion of the Jews as as they left the land of Egypt. He calls it again a rebellion (cf. 15), and asks, “who, having heard rebelled?” (16). It was in fact the entire generation that was guilty of rebellion, despite God’s assurance of protection and victory.

That was the cause, “having heard” they “rebelled.” The effect followed. They angered God and it led to the refusal of God to grant to that generation the rest of Canaan. An entire generation was sentenced to a fruitless wandering until all died in the wilderness. God swore punishment to those who did not obey Him. But, when the explanation is given, verse 19 states, “So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.”

True biblical faith is described in scripture as faith that leads to obedience. “By faith Abraham obeyed…” (11:8). If someone professed faith in God or His Son, but is not willing to obey, it is not the faith that God prescribes. It is empty and its impact is God’s judgment!

An examination of Paul’s wonderful sermon preaching on Mars Hill in Acts 17.

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The Noble Bereans (Acts 17:11) are examined to determine why their approach in examining Paul’s preaching was commended by God.  May be we noble like the Bereans!

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