New International Version By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. New Living Translation By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen. English Standard Version By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Berean Standard Bible By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Berean Literal Bible By faith we understand the ages to have been completed thoroughly by the word of God, in order for that being seen not to have come into being out of the things being visible. King James Bible Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. New King James Version 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. New American Standard Bible By faith we understand that the world has been created by the word of God so that what is seen has not been made out of things that are visible. NASB 1995 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. NASB 1977 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. Legacy Standard Bible By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. Amplified Bible By faith [that is, with an inherent trust and enduring confidence in the power, wisdom and goodness of God] we understand that the worlds (universe, ages) were framed and created [formed, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose] by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. Berean Annotated Bible By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command {rhēmati}, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Christian Standard Bible By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible. Holman Christian Standard Bible By faith we understand that the universe was created by God’s command, so that what is seen has been made from things that are not visible. American Standard Version By faith we understand that the worlds have been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen hath not been made out of things which appear. Contemporary English Version Because of our faith, we know that the world was made at God's command. We also know that what can be seen was made out of what cannot be seen. English Revised Version By faith we understand that the worlds have been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen hath not been made out of things which do appear. GOD'S WORD® Translation Faith convinces us that God created the world through his word. This means what can be seen was made by something that could not be seen. Good News Translation It is by faith that we understand that the universe was created by God's word, so that what can be seen was made out of what cannot be seen. International Standard Version By faith we understand that time was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are invisible. NET Bible By faith we understand that the worlds were set in order at God's command, so that the visible has its origin in the invisible. New Heart English Bible By faith, we understand that the ages were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen has not been made out of things which are visible. Webster's Bible Translation Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which appeared. Weymouth New Testament Through faith we understand that the worlds came into being, and still exist, at the command of God, so that what is seen does not owe its existence to that which is visible. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBy faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. World English Bible By faith we understand that the universe has been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen has not been made out of things which are visible. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionBy faith we understand the ages to have been prepared by a saying of God, in regard to the things seen having not come out of things appearing. Berean Literal Bible By faith we understand the ages to have been completed thoroughly by the word of God, in order for that being seen not to have come into being out of the things being visible. Young's Literal Translation by faith we understand the ages to have been prepared by a saying of God, in regard to the things seen not having come out of things appearing; Smith's Literal Translation By faith we perceive that the times were adjusted by the word of God, so that things seen have been born not of things brought to light. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBy faith we understand that the world was framed by the word of God; that from invisible things visible things might be made. Catholic Public Domain Version By faith, we understand the world to be fashioned by the Word of God, so that the visible might be made by the invisible. New American Bible By faith we understand that the universe was ordered by the word of God, so that what is visible came into being through the invisible. New Revised Standard Version By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleFor it is through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen came to be from those which are not seen. Aramaic Bible in Plain English For by faith we understand that the worlds were fashioned by the word of God, and these things that are seen came into being out of those things which are unseen. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentBy faith we understand that the ages were set in order by the word of God, so that the things which are seen, have not come into being from things that appear. Godbey New Testament By faith we understand that the worlds were created by the word of God, and that which was seen was not made from things which are manifest. Haweis New Testament By faith we understand that the worlds were exactly formed by the word of God, so that the visible objects were not made out of things which now appear. Mace New Testament 'Tis by faith we learn that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the visible world was not made out of any thing that did appear. Weymouth New Testament Through faith we understand that the worlds came into being, and still exist, at the command of God, so that what is seen does not owe its existence to that which is visible. Worrell New Testament By faith we perceive that the ages have been constituted by the word of God, so that what is seen has not arisen out of things that appear. Worsley New Testament By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, for the things which are seen were not made of things which appear. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible (Voice ▾ Musical ▾) Context Faith and Assurance…2This is why the ancients were commended. 3By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. 4By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous when God gave approval to his gifts. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead.… Cross References By faith we understand 1 Corinthians 2:14 The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. Romans 10:17 Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. that the universe was formed Hebrews 1:2 But in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe. Psalm 33:6 By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the stars by the breath of His mouth. 2 Peter 3:5 But they deliberately overlook the fact that long ago by God’s word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water, at God’s command, Psalm 148:5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He gave the command and they were created. Psalm 33:9 For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm. Genesis 1:3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. so that what is seen 2 Corinthians 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. Colossians 1:16 For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. was not made out of what was visible. Romans 4:17 As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the presence of God, in whom he believed, the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being what does not yet exist. John 1:3 Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Treasury of Scripture Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. faith. Hebrews 1:2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 2:1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. Jump to Previous Ages Appear Appeared Appearing Apprehend Clear Command Created Events Exist Existence Faith Fixed Formed Framed God's Order Origin Owe Prepared Regard Seem Understand Universe Visible Word World WorldsJump to Next Ages Appear Appeared Appearing Apprehend Clear Command Created Events Exist Existence Faith Fixed Formed Framed God's Order Origin Owe Prepared Regard Seem Understand Universe Visible Word World WorldsHebrews 11 1. What faith is.6. Without faith we cannot please God. 7. The examples of faithfulness in the fathers of old time. By faith we understand Faith receives God’s revelation about realities beyond human observation, including the origin of all things. 1Co 2:14 The natural man does not accept the things that… that the universe was formed The entire created order, heaven and earth, came into being according to God’s purpose. Heb 1:2 But in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son… at God’s command, Creation resulted from God’s spoken will; He did not depend on matter, force, or assistance outside Himself. Psa 148:5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He gave… so that what is seen The physical world, with all its order and life, is visible evidence of a Creator. 2Co 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen… was not made out of what was visible. God brought creation into existence out of nothing, without preexisting visible material, establishing His absolute power over all that exists. Rom 4:17 As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations”… Persons / Places / Events 1. GodThe Creator who, by His command, formed the universe. This highlights His omnipotence and sovereignty. 2. The Universe The entirety of creation, which was brought into existence by God's word. It serves as a testament to His power and divine nature. 3. Faith The means by which believers understand the creation of the universe. It is a central theme in Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Faith Chapter." Teaching Points The Power of God's WordGod's command is powerful and effective, bringing the universe into existence. This underscores the authority and reliability of His word in our lives. Faith as Understanding Faith is not blind belief but a confident understanding of God's actions and promises. It allows us to perceive the unseen realities of God's creation and purpose. Creation Ex Nihilo The concept that the universe was made from nothing ("ex nihilo") highlights God's unique creative power, distinguishing Him from all other beings. The Seen and Unseen The physical world is a reflection of spiritual realities. Believers are called to trust in the unseen, eternal truths of God, even when they are not immediately visible. Living by Faith Just as we understand creation by faith, we are called to live our daily lives by faith, trusting in God's promises and His sovereign plan. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Hebrews 11:3?2. How does Hebrews 11:3 encourage us to trust God's creation of the universe? 3. What does "the universe was formed at God's command" reveal about God's power? 4. How can we apply the faith in unseen things to our daily lives? 5. How does Hebrews 11:3 connect with Genesis 1:1 about creation? 6. How can understanding creation by faith strengthen our relationship with God? 7. How does Hebrews 11:3 support the belief in creation ex nihilo? 8. What does Hebrews 11:3 imply about the relationship between faith and understanding? 9. How does Hebrews 11:3 challenge the scientific view of the universe's origins? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Hebrews 11? (3) Through faith.--Rather, By faith, as in the following verses. The first place is not given to "the elders," for the writer's object is to set forth the achievements of faith. With these, he would say, the Scripture record is filled. Even where there is no mention of this principle we must trace it in the lives of God's servants; even where there is no history of men, there is a necessity for the exercise of faith by ourselves, and the first words of Scripture teach this lesson. That the worlds were framed.--Literally, that the ages have been prepared. The remarkable expression which was used in Hebrews 1:2 is here repeated. The complete preparation of all that the successive periods of time contain is the idea which the words present. The narrative of the first chapter of Genesis ascribes the whole creation of "the heaven and the earth" to God; and associates with "a word of God" every stage in the preparation and furnishing of the earth. (See Note on Hebrews 1:2.) This is the first lesson of that record. But it does not stand alone, as is taught more plainly still by the next clause. So that things which are seen.--A slight alteration in the Greek is necessary here--"the thing seen" (or "what is seen") being the true reading. A more important point is a change in the aspect of the whole clause, which the Greek seems to require. As the English words stand, they point out the significance of the statement of Scripture respecting the creative act: we believe the writer intended rather to state the divine purpose in relation to that first creation and all subsequent acts that are included in the "preparing of the ages." "In order that what is seen should not have come into being out of things which appear." This is probably the true meaning of the clause. In the narrative of the first chapter of Genesis God would have us learn a lesson for the whole course of human history and development. As the visible universe did not take its being out of what was apparent, so what from time to time is seen does not arise of itself out of what is manifest to man's natural perceptions. Not only is the eternity of matter denied, but from the beginning a warning has been given against a materialistic philosophy. The first page of Scripture is designed to teach the constant presence and work of the Creator. This lesson we learn and apply by faith; and the result of its application is seen in many points of the history which follows. In that history the operation of faith is twofold. The writer's most obvious design is to call attention to the faith possessed by "the elders," and its wonderful triumphs; but it is in many cases by the same faith that we interpret the Scripture record so as to discover this to have been their guiding principle. But seldom does the Old Testament directly speak of faith, and hence the importance of this verse (which some have thought incongruous, since it retards the exhibition of the elders' faith) as throwing light on our interpretation of the teaching of God's word. Verse 3. - By faith we perceive that the worlds have been framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen (or, that which is seen) have (or, has) not been made of things which do appear. "By the word of God" has reference to "and God said," of Genesis 1, which chapter enunciates the primary article of all definite religions faith, viz. the existence and operation of God, as the unseen Author of the visible universe. Even without a revelation to declare this, faith's office is to apprehend it from observation of the phenomena themselves; as is intimated in Romans 1:20, where even to the Greek "the invisible things of God from the creation of the world" are said to be "clearly seen, being understood [νοούμενα: cf νοοῦμεν in the passage before us] by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead." The drift of both passages is the same, viz. this, and no more - that faith recognizes an unseen power and Godhead behind, and accounting for, the seen universe. Commentators, who - taking μὴ ἐκ φαινομένων as equivalent to ἐκ μὴ φαινομένων, and hence seeking to explain what is meant by "non-apparent things" - perceive here a reference either to the formless void (Genesis 1:2) out of which the present creation was evolved, or to the Platonic conception of eternal ideas in the Divine mind, read into the text what is not there. Hebrews 11:3 teaches that believers, relying on God’s reliable word, grasp a foundational reality: the entire universe sprang into existence by God’s sovereign command, without pre-existing matter. Everything we see reveals an invisible yet all-powerful Creator who speaks and accomplishes His purposes. Understanding creation by faith anchors our worldview, fuels our worship, and fortifies our trust that the God who formed worlds can shape our present and future.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek By faithΠίστει (Pistei) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular Strong's 4102: Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness. we understand that νοοῦμεν (nooumen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural Strong's 3539: From nous; to exercise the mind, i.e. to comprehend, heed. the τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. universe αἰῶνας (aiōnas) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 165: From the same as aei; properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity; by implication, the world; specially a Messianic period. was formed κατηρτίσθαι (katērtisthai) Verb - Perfect Infinitive Middle or Passive Strong's 2675: From kata and a derivative of artios; to complete thoroughly, i.e. Repair or adjust. by God’s command, ῥήματι (rhēmati) Noun - Dative Neuter Singular Strong's 4487: From rheo; an utterance, ; by implication, a matter or topic; with a negative naught whatever. so that εἰς (eis) Preposition Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. what τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. is seen βλεπόμενον (blepomenon) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 991: (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at. was not made γεγονέναι (gegonenai) Verb - Perfect Infinitive Active Strong's 1096: A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. out of ἐκ (ek) Preposition Strong's 1537: From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out. what τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. was visible. φαινομένων (phainomenōn) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Genitive Neuter Plural Strong's 5316: Prolongation for the base of phos; to lighten, i.e. Show. Additonal Resources Hebrews 11:3 Blue Letter BibleHebrews 11:3 Bible Gateway Hebrews 11:3 Bible.com Hebrews 11:3 NIV |
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