◄ Hebrews 11 ►
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Faith and Assurance (Genesis 1:1–2; John 1:1–5) 1Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. 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. The Faith of Abel, Enoch, Noah (Genesis 4–9) 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. 5By faith Enoch was taken upa so that he did not see death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.”b For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. 6And without faith it is impossible to please God. For anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. 7By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. The Faith of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 15–22; Romans 4:1–12) 8By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going. 9By faith he dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. 10For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. 11By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child, because she considered Him faithful who had promised. 12And so from one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. 13All these people died in faith, without having received the things they were promised. However, they saw them and welcomed them from afar. And they acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. 14Now those who say such things show that they are seeking a country of their own. 15If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16Instead, they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. 17By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac on the altar. He who had received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son,c 18even though God had said to him, “Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned.”d 19Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death. The Faith of Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph (Genesis 27–50) 20By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future. 21By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. 22By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. The Faith of Moses (Exodus 2–15; Acts 7:20–22) 23By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after his birth, because they saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were unafraid of the king’s edict. 24By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25He chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin. 26He valued disgrace for Christ above the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward. 27By faith Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible. 28By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch Israel’s own firstborn. 29By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to follow,e they were drowned. The Faith of Many (Joshua–Malachi) 30By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days. 31By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient. 32And what more shall I say? Time will not allow me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets, 33who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, 34quenched the raging fire, and escaped the edge of the sword; who gained strength from weakness, became mighty in battle, and put foreign armies to flight. 35Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused their release, so that they might gain a better resurrection. 36Still others endured mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. 37They were stoned, they were sawed in two,f they were put to death by the sword. They went around in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, oppressed, and mistreated. 38The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and hid in caves and holes in the ground. 39These were all commended for their faith, yet they did not receive what was promised. 40God had planned something better for us, so that together with us they would be made perfect. Footnotes: 5 a Literally transferred or translated 5 b Genesis 5:24 (see also LXX) 17 c Or only begotten son or unique son 18 d Genesis 21:12 29 e Literally made an attempt 37 f NE, WH, BYZ, and TR include they were put to the test, Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Hebrews 11 Summary Faith and Assurance Verses 1–3 – Faith Defined and Rooted in Creation Faith supplies “the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see” (11:1). By it the ancients gained God’s approval, and by it we understand that the universe was fashioned by God’s word so that the visible came from the invisible. Verses 4–7 – Early Examples: Abel, Enoch, Noah Abel offered a better sacrifice and still “speaks” though dead. Enoch pleased God and was taken without dying. Noah believed God’s warning, built the ark, and condemned a disbelieving world while becoming heir of righteousness. Verses 8–12 – Abraham and Sarah: Trusting the Promise Abraham obeyed the call, lived as an alien in the promised land, and awaited a city with foundations built by God. Sarah received strength to conceive, and from the couple came descendants “as countless as the stars.” Verses 13–16 – Pilgrims Looking for a Better Country These died in faith, greeting promises from afar. They confessed they were strangers on earth and longed for a heavenly homeland. God is not ashamed to be called their God. Verses 17–19 – The Test on Mount Moriah Abraham offered Isaac, reasoning that God could raise the dead. He received his son back figuratively, proving faith’s triumph over fear. Verses 20–22 – Blessings Spoken by the Patriarchs Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph each foretold the future with confidence that God’s word would outlast their own lifetimes. Verses 23–29 – Moses: Refusing Egypt, Embracing Suffering Moses’ parents hid him by faith. Grown, he chose ill-treatment with God’s people over Egypt’s treasures, left Egypt unafraid of the king, kept the Passover, and passed through the Red Sea on dry ground. Verses 30–31 – Jericho Falls and Rahab Stands Faith brought down Jericho’s walls after seven days, and Rahab was spared because she welcomed the spies in peace. Verses 32–38 – A Roll Call of Courage and Suffering Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets conquered kingdoms, shut lions’ mouths, quenched fire, and received back the dead. Others were tortured, mocked, flogged, chained, stoned, sawn in two, and destitute—“men of whom the world was not worthy.” Verses 39–40 – Awaiting the Perfect Fulfillment All were commended yet did not receive the complete promise, because God had prepared something better for us so that together we would be made perfect. Hebrews 11, often known as the "Hall of Faith," is a powerful chapter in the New Testament, highlighting the role and importance of faith in the life of a believer. The chapter uses examples from the Old Testament to show how faith guided and empowered men and women to perform God's will, even amidst great trials. Historical Setting of Hebrews 11 The letter was sent to Jewish believers wavering under hardship. By highlighting ancestors they revered, the writer urges them—and us—to press on. Each account answers the unspoken question, “Is faith worth the cost?” The resounding reply: “Yes, always.” Faith: Assurance, Not Wishful Thinking • Hebrews 11:1 pairs “assurance” and “certainty,” stressing solidity. • Romans 4:20-21 shows Abraham “fully convinced” God could perform what He promised. • 2 Corinthians 5:7 reminds believers to walk by faith, not by sight. Biblical faith rests on God’s unchanging character. Creation Ex Nihilo Supported by Scripture Hebrews 11:3 links directly to Genesis 1:1—God spoke, and matter appeared. Psalm 33:6-9 echoes the same. Archaeologically, every ancient culture wrestles with origins, but only Scripture claims creation from nothing by a personal God, setting the biblical worldview apart. Blood Sacrifice: Abel as a Foreshadowing Genesis 4:4 records Abel offering “the firstborn of his flock.” This anticipates Leviticus sacrifices and ultimately Christ’s atoning death (Hebrews 12:24, “the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word”). Even early stone altars discovered in the Ancient Near East point to widespread sacrificial systems that the biblical account clarifies and purifies. Walking with God: The Testimony of Enoch Genesis 5:24 simply states Enoch “walked with God.” Jude 14-15 cites him prophesying judgment. His translation into heaven prefigures the believer’s hope of being caught up (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Noah’s Ark and Global Judgment Genesis 6–9 records Noah constructing a vessel roughly 450 feet long. Ancient flood accounts from Mesopotamia, India, and even the Americas mirror a memory of a cataclysm, lending anthropological support. Noah’s faith condemned a scoffing generation (2 Peter 2:5). Patriarchal Era: Cultural and Archaeological Insights • Ur of the Chaldees (Genesis 11:31) has been excavated, revealing advanced urban life around Abraham’s time. • Migration texts such as the Mari tablets confirm nomadic movements matching Genesis 12–25. • Cave tombs in Hebron correspond to the “Machpelah” purchase (Genesis 23). Abraham’s Journey: Trust Beyond Borders Hebrews 11 highlights tents and altars (Genesis 12:8; 13:18). Living in a tent underlines impermanence; building an altar shows permanence in worship. Parallel: 1 Peter 2:11 calls believers “sojourners and exiles,” mirroring Abraham’s stance. Sarah’s Faith and the Miracle Child Though she laughed at first (Genesis 18:12), Sarah judged Him faithful who promised (Hebrews 11:11). Isaac’s birth against biological odds points to Luke 1:37, “Nothing will be impossible with God.” Mount Moriah: Geography and Typology Genesis 22 positions the sacrifice on Moriah, traditionally the Temple Mount area. Later, 2 Chronicles 3:1 notes Solomon building the temple there. The location ties Abraham’s substitute ram to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ in Jerusalem (John 19:17). Patriarchal Blessings and Prophetic Accuracy The blessings of Isaac (Genesis 27), Jacob (Genesis 48–49), and Joseph’s bones (Genesis 50:25; Joshua 24:32) all unfolded centuries later. Faith speaks future truth into the present. Moses and the Exodus: Historical Traces • Egyptian texts reference Semitic laborers in the Delta. • Papyrus Ipuwer describes plagues resembling Exodus events. • Sinai inscriptions mention “Yah” (short for Yahweh), possibly left by early Hebrews. By faith, Moses chose reproach over riches, lining up with Jesus’ words in Matthew 16:26. Jericho’s Walls: Archaeological Observations Excavations (Kenyon, Garstang) found collapsed walls dating to Late Bronze Age I. While scholars debate layers, the evidence of sudden destruction and burned grain fits the Joshua 6 account, matching Hebrews 11:30. Rahab: From Canaanite to Ancestor of Messiah Joshua 2 recounts her hiding the spies. Matthew 1:5 lists her in Jesus’ genealogy, underscoring the reach of grace. James 2:25 cites her works as proof of living faith, harmonizing with Hebrews. Judges and Kings: Faith Under Pressure • Gideon trusted a bare-bones army (Judges 7). • Barak obeyed through Deborah’s word (Judges 4). • Samson, despite failures, sought God at the end (Judges 16:28). • David faced giants and kingdoms yet penned worshipful Psalms (Psalm 23). Their accounts prove God honors imperfect yet genuine trust. Prophets Who Suffered 1 Kings 19 shows Elijah hunted; Jeremiah 38 records imprisonment; tradition says Isaiah was sawn in two under Manasseh (alluded to in Hebrews 11:37). Faith does not guarantee comfort but secures eternal commendation. “Men of Whom the World Was Not Worthy” This phrase flips worldly values. 1 John 2:17 says the world is passing away; faith ties believers to what lasts. Philippians 3:20 stresses our citizenship in heaven. Completion in Christ Hebrews 11:40 leads to 12:2—Jesus is “the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” The Old Covenant saints looked forward; we look back to the cross and forward to His return, sharing one unbroken chain of trust (Galatians 3:29). Faith and Works: Harmony with James 2 James 2:22 states faith was “working together with” Abraham’s actions. Hebrews lists deeds springing from faith, proving that genuine belief naturally produces obedience. Living by Faith Today • Listen to God’s word (Romans 10:17). • Obey promptly, like Abraham. • Persevere under pressure, like Moses. • Welcome outsiders, like Rahab. • Keep eyes on the unseen city, like every pilgrim in Hebrews 11. The same God who sustained them remains faithful now (Hebrews 13:8). Encouragement for Endurance Hebrews 12:1 picks up the baton: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses… let us run with endurance.” Their accounts are not museum pieces but living testimonies urging every generation to trust God no matter the cost. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 2:17 So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead. This verse complements Hebrews 11 by emphasizing that genuine faith is demonstrated through action. Romans 4:20-21 Yet he did not waver through disbelief in the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God was able to do what He had promised. This passage highlights Abraham's unwavering faith. 2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. This verse reinforces the concept of living by faith, as exemplified in Hebrews 11. Teaching Points Definition of Faith Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. This foundational verse sets the stage for understanding faith as both a confident expectation and a conviction in the unseen. Faith of the Ancients The chapter highlights the faith of Old Testament figures such as Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah, emphasizing that by faith they received commendation from God (Hebrews 11:2). Faith and Obedience The faith of Abraham, who obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going (Hebrews 11:8), illustrates that true faith is accompanied by obedience to God's call. Endurance in Faith The chapter underscores the endurance of faith, as seen in Moses, who persevered because he saw Him who is invisible (Hebrews 11:27). Faith empowers believers to endure trials and remain steadfast. Faith and Future Promises Hebrews 11:13-16 speaks of those who died in faith, not having received the things promised, yet they saw them from afar and embraced them. This teaches us that faith looks beyond the present to the fulfillment of God's promises. Practical Applications Cultivate Assurance Strengthen your faith by regularly meditating on God's promises and trusting in His character, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Act in Obedience Like Abraham, be willing to step out in faith and obey God's leading, even when the path is unclear. Persevere Through Trials Draw inspiration from the endurance of biblical figures, and rely on God's strength to persevere through life's challenges. Focus on Eternal Promises Keep your eyes fixed on the eternal promises of God, allowing them to shape your perspective and priorities. People 1. Abel Abel is commended for offering a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, demonstrating righteousness through his faith. "By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God gave approval to his gifts." (Hebrews 11:4) 2. Enoch Enoch is noted for his faith that pleased God, resulting in him being taken up to heaven without experiencing death. "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death, and he could not be found, because God had taken him away." (Hebrews 11:5) 3. Noah Noah, in reverent fear, built an ark to save his family, becoming an heir of righteousness through faith. "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family." (Hebrews 11:7) 4. Abraham Abraham obeyed God's call to go to a place he would later receive as an inheritance, living as a foreigner in the promised land. "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance." (Hebrews 11:8) 5. Sarah Sarah, by faith, received the power to conceive, even when she was past the age, because she considered God faithful. "By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child because she considered Him faithful who had promised." (Hebrews 11:11) 6. Isaac Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning their future, acting in faith regarding things to come. "By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future." (Hebrews 11:20) 7. Jacob Jacob, when dying, blessed each of Joseph's sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. "By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff." (Hebrews 11:21) 8. Joseph Joseph spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions concerning his bones. "By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones." (Hebrews 11:22) 9. Moses Moses, by faith, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing to be mistreated with God's people. "By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter." (Hebrews 11:24) 10. Rahab Rahab, the prostitute, welcomed the spies in peace and was not killed with those who were disobedient. "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient." (Hebrews 11:31) Places 1. Egypt Mentioned in Hebrews 11:26-27, Egypt is where Moses was raised and later led the Israelites out of bondage. The passage highlights Moses' faith in leaving Egypt, "By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible." 2. Red Sea Referenced in Hebrews 11:29, the Red Sea is where the Israelites crossed on dry land, escaping the Egyptian army. The verse states, "By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were drowned." 3. Jericho Found in Hebrews 11:30, Jericho is the city whose walls fell after the Israelites marched around them for seven days. The scripture notes, "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days." 4. Canaan While not directly named in Hebrews 11, Canaan is implied as the Promised Land that Abraham and his descendants were to inherit. Hebrews 11:9 refers to Abraham living "in the land of promise, as in a foreign land," which is understood to be Canaan. Events 1. Creation by God's Command "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." (Hebrews 11:3) This verse emphasizes the belief that the universe was created by God's word, highlighting the concept of creation ex nihilo, or "out of nothing." 2. Abel's Offering "By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God gave approval to his gifts." (Hebrews 11:4) Abel's faith is demonstrated through his offering, which was accepted by God, contrasting with Cain's. 3. Enoch's Translation "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death: 'He could not be found, because God had taken him away.'" (Hebrews 11:5) Enoch's faith led to his being taken up by God, bypassing death, as noted in Genesis. 4. Noah's Ark "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family." (Hebrews 11:7) Noah's faith is shown in his obedience to God's warning about the flood, leading to the construction of the ark. 5. Abraham's Call "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance." (Hebrews 11:8) Abraham's faith is evident in his willingness to leave his homeland and go to an unknown land. 6. Sarah's Conception "By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child." (Hebrews 11:11) Sarah's faith is highlighted in her ability to conceive Isaac despite her old age. 7. Abraham's Offering of Isaac "By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac on the altar." (Hebrews 11:17) Abraham's faith is tested when he is asked to sacrifice his son Isaac, demonstrating his trust in God's promises. 8. Isaac's Blessing "By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future." (Hebrews 11:20) Isaac's faith is shown in his blessings to his sons, foretelling their futures. 9. Jacob's Blessing "By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons." (Hebrews 11:21) Jacob's faith is evident in his blessings over his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh. 10. Joseph's Instructions "By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones." (Hebrews 11:22) Joseph's faith is shown in his belief in God's promise to bring Israel out of Egypt. 11. Moses' Parents' Courage "By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was a beautiful child." (Hebrews 11:23) The faith of Moses' parents is demonstrated in their defiance of Pharaoh's edict. 12. Moses' Choice "By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter." (Hebrews 11:24) Moses' faith is shown in his choice to identify with the Israelites rather than Egyptian royalty. 13. The Exodus and Passover "By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch Israel’s own firstborn." (Hebrews 11:28) Moses' faith is evident in his observance of the Passover, protecting the Israelites. 14. Crossing the Red Sea "By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land." (Hebrews 11:29) The Israelites' faith is demonstrated in their crossing of the Red Sea, escaping the Egyptians. 15. Fall of Jericho "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days." (Hebrews 11:30) The faith of the Israelites is shown in their obedience to God's instructions, leading to Jericho's fall. 16. Rahab's Protection "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient." (Hebrews 11:31) Rahab's faith is evident in her protection of the Israelite spies, leading to her and her family's salvation. Lessons from Hebrews 11 1. Faith is the Foundation of Our Hope Hebrews 11:1 tells us, "Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This verse sets the stage for understanding that faith is not a blind leap but a confident trust in God's promises. Just as a house needs a solid foundation, our lives need faith to stand firm amidst life's storms. Faith is the bedrock that supports our hope and gives us the courage to face the unknown with confidence. 2. By Faith, We Understand Creation Verse 3 of Hebrews 11 states, "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." This reminds us that faith allows us to grasp the divine truth of creation. While science explores the how, faith reveals the who and why. Embracing this perspective helps us see the world as a masterpiece crafted by the Creator, deepening our appreciation for His handiwork. 3. Faith Leads to Righteousness Hebrews 11:4 highlights Abel's offering, "By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous." Abel's story teaches us that faith is not just belief but action that aligns with God's will. Righteousness is not earned by deeds alone but is a result of faith that pleases God. Our actions, motivated by faith, become a testimony of our relationship with Him. 4. Faith Walks with God Enoch's story in Hebrews 11:5 shows us that "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death." Enoch's life was marked by a close walk with God, illustrating that faith is a journey of intimacy with the Creator. Walking with God means living in constant communion with Him, allowing His presence to guide our steps and transform our lives. 5. Faith Pleases God Verse 6 declares, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." This lesson emphasizes that faith is essential to our relationship with God. It is through faith that we draw near to Him, trusting in His goodness and His promises. Our faith is a fragrant offering that delights the heart of our Heavenly Father. 6. Faith Builds Arks in Obedience Noah's story in Hebrews 11:7 teaches us about obedience, "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family." Noah's faith was demonstrated through his obedience to God's command, even when it seemed irrational. Faith compels us to act in obedience, trusting that God's instructions are for our ultimate good, even when we don't fully understand His plan. 7. Faith Embraces the Unknown Abraham's journey in Hebrews 11:8 shows us that "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place he would later receive as an inheritance." Abraham's willingness to step into the unknown is a powerful lesson in trusting God's guidance. Faith often requires us to leave our comfort zones, embracing uncertainty with the assurance that God is leading us to a promised future. 8. Faith Sees Beyond the Present Hebrews 11:13 reminds us that the heroes of faith "all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar." This teaches us that faith looks beyond the present circumstances to the eternal promises of God. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our true home is with God, and His promises are worth waiting for. 9. Faith Overcomes Fear Moses' parents, mentioned in Hebrews 11:23, "By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict." Their faith overcame fear, demonstrating that faith empowers us to stand firm against worldly pressures. When we trust in God's sovereignty, we find the courage to defy fear and follow His will. 10. Faith Conquers Through Perseverance The chapter concludes with a reminder of the many who "through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised" (Hebrews 11:33). This final lesson teaches us that faith is not a one-time act but a lifelong journey of perseverance. It is through enduring faith that we experience victory, knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises in His perfect timing. Let us be inspired by these examples to run our race with endurance, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Topics 1. Definition of Faith (Hebrews 11:1-3) The chapter begins by defining faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). The Greek word for "faith" is "πίστις" (pistis), which conveys trust and confidence. The passage emphasizes that faith is foundational to understanding the creation of the world by God's command. 2. Abel's Faith (Hebrews 11:4) Abel is commended for offering a better sacrifice than Cain, demonstrating righteousness through faith. The text states, "By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did" (Hebrews 11:4). 3. Enoch's Faith (Hebrews 11:5-6) Enoch is noted for being taken up to heaven without experiencing death because of his faith. "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death" (Hebrews 11:5). The passage underscores the necessity of faith to please God. 4. Noah's Faith (Hebrews 11:7) Noah's faith led him to build an ark, saving his family from the flood. "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family" (Hebrews 11:7). 5. Abraham's Faith (Hebrews 11:8-12) Abraham is highlighted for obeying God's call to go to an unknown land and for believing in God's promise of descendants. "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place he would later receive as an inheritance" (Hebrews 11:8). 6. Sarah's Faith (Hebrews 11:11-12) Sarah is recognized for her faith in God's promise to give her a child despite her old age. "By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age" (Hebrews 11:11). 7. The Patriarchs' Faith (Hebrews 11:13-16) The patriarchs, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, are commended for living by faith, looking forward to a heavenly homeland. "All these people died in faith, without having received the things they were promised" (Hebrews 11:13). 8. Abraham's Test of Faith (Hebrews 11:17-19) Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac is highlighted as a supreme act of faith. "By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac" (Hebrews 11:17). 9. Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph's Faith (Hebrews 11:20-22) The faith of Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph is noted in their blessings and prophecies concerning future generations. "By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future" (Hebrews 11:20). 10. Moses' Faith (Hebrews 11:23-29) Moses' life is marked by faith, from his parents hiding him as a baby to his leading the Israelites out of Egypt. "By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter" (Hebrews 11:24). 11. The Israelites' Faith (Hebrews 11:30) The faith of the Israelites is demonstrated in the fall of Jericho's walls. "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days" (Hebrews 11:30). 12. Rahab's Faith (Hebrews 11:31) Rahab is commended for her faith in hiding the spies, leading to her preservation. "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient" (Hebrews 11:31). 13. Other Heroes of Faith (Hebrews 11:32-38) The chapter briefly mentions other figures like Gideon, Barak, Samson, and David, who demonstrated faith in various trials. "And what more shall I say? Time will fail me if I tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets" (Hebrews 11:32). 14. The Commendation of Faith (Hebrews 11:39-40) The chapter concludes by affirming that all these individuals were commended for their faith, yet did not receive the full promise, as God had planned something better for us. "These were all commended for their faith, yet they did not receive what was promised" (Hebrews 11:39). Themes 1. Definition and Essence of Faith Hebrews 11:1 - "Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." The chapter begins by defining faith as both assurance and certainty, emphasizing its foundational role in the believer's life. The Greek word for "assurance" (ὑπόστασις, hypostasis) conveys a sense of confidence and substance. 2. Faith as the Basis for Divine Approval Hebrews 11:2 - "This is why the ancients were commended." The text highlights that it was through faith that the elders received commendation from God, underscoring faith as the basis for divine approval. 3. Faith in Creation Hebrews 11:3 - "By faith we understand that the universe was formed by God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." This theme emphasizes belief in God's creative power, affirming that the visible world was made from the invisible, aligning with the concept of creation ex nihilo (out of nothing). 4. Faith Demonstrated through Sacrifice Hebrews 11:4 - "By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did." Abel's faith is demonstrated through his offering, which was more acceptable to God, highlighting the importance of faith in worship and sacrifice. 5. Faith Leading to Righteousness Hebrews 11:7 - "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family." Noah's faith led him to act in obedience, resulting in righteousness. The Greek word for "righteousness" (δικαιοσύνη, dikaiosynē) signifies a state of being right with God. 6. Faith as Obedience and Trust Hebrews 11:8 - "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance." Abraham's journey is a testament to faith as obedience and trust in God's promises, even without knowing the outcome. 7. Faith in the Promise of Future Generations Hebrews 11:11 - "By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was barren and beyond the proper age." Sarah's faith in God's promise led to the birth of Isaac, illustrating faith in God's ability to fulfill promises against all odds. 8. Faith in the Face of Death Hebrews 11:13 - "These all died in faith, without having received the things promised." The patriarchs died in faith, not having received the promises, but seeing them from afar, demonstrating faith's enduring nature even unto death. 9. Faith as a Pilgrimage Hebrews 11:16 - "Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one." The faithful viewed themselves as pilgrims on earth, seeking a heavenly homeland, which reflects the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal perspective of faith. 10. Faith in Testing and Sacrifice Hebrews 11:17 - "By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac." Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac is a profound example of faith under testing, trusting in God's provision and promises. 11. Faith in Deliverance and Victory Hebrews 11:29-30 - "By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land... By faith the walls of Jericho fell." These events highlight faith's role in divine deliverance and victory over seemingly insurmountable obstacles. 12. Faith in Suffering and Perseverance Hebrews 11:35-38 - "Others were tortured and refused their release... They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground." The chapter concludes with examples of those who suffered for their faith, emphasizing perseverance and the eternal reward for enduring trials. Prayer Points Pray for Strengthened Faith Ask God to deepen your faith and help you trust Him more fully in every area of your life. Pray for Obedience Seek God's guidance and courage to obey His will, even when it requires stepping into the unknown. Pray for Endurance Request God's sustaining power to persevere through trials and remain faithful to Him. Pray for an Eternal Perspective Ask God to help you focus on His eternal promises and live with a heavenly mindset. As we study Hebrews 11, may we be inspired by the faith of those who have gone before us and be encouraged to live lives marked by unwavering trust in our faithful God. Answering Tough Questions 1. Hebrews 11:3 – If the universe was made by God’s command out of nothing, how does this relate to scientific models such as the Big Bang? 2. Hebrews 11:5 – If Enoch never saw death, how can this be reconciled with the universal human mortality observed throughout history? 3. Hebrews 11:11 – If Sarah conceived in her old age, how does this align with modern medical understanding of fertility limits? 4. Hebrews 11:29 – If the Israelites truly crossed the Red Sea on dry ground, why is there no conclusive archeological or historical evidence of this event? 5. Hebrews 11:30 – If Jericho’s walls fell solely by faith, how do we explain the inconsistencies with archeological timelines and data about the city’s destruction? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How would you define faith based on Hebrews 11:1? 2. How has your understanding of faith been challenged or affirmed by Hebrews 11? 3. Discuss the link between faith and obedience as evidenced by the characters in Hebrews 11. 4. How did Noah, Abraham, and Moses exhibit faith despite not seeing the fulfillment of God's promises in their lifetimes? 5. How might understanding the world as framed by God's word affect your perspective on current global events? 6. In today's context, what might it look like for you to step out in faith as Abraham did? 7. What kind of "sacrifices" might faith ask of us in modern life? 8. How can Sarah's faith in God's promise inspire women today, particularly those facing seemingly insurmountable challenges? 9. Why do you think faith is considered an essential aspect of a believer's life? 10. How does Rahab's story challenge the societal definition of a hero of faith? 11. How can we maintain faith during times of persecution or hardship, as shown in verses 32-38? 12. How does the faith of these biblical figures challenge the cultural norm that results should be immediate? 13. How can the examples of faith in Hebrews 11 inspire you in your personal walk with God? 14. How does the concept of faith presented in Hebrews 11 contrast with the worldly view of faith? 15. Considering the experiences of these Old Testament figures, how does their faith inform our understanding of God's "better plan" mentioned in Hebrews 11:40? 16. What steps can you take to develop a faith similar to those listed in Hebrews 11? 17. What are some practical ways to demonstrate faith in your community? 18. How can understanding the stories of these faithful characters equip us for evangelism? 19. How does the understanding of faith in Hebrews 11 shape your perception of hope and future? 20. How can you apply the lessons from Hebrews 11 to your present-day living? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions