Keys of Truth: Hebrews (Chapter 11)

Chapter summary:
The theological foundation laid, the author now describes the life of faith he expects his Christian readers to lead. First he reminds them that throughout sacred history faith in God has been the key to the achievement of Bible heroes. Faith has always involved confidence in the unseen (11:1-3). It has also been expressed in action: whether by those who lived before the Flood (vv. 4-7), by Abraham and Sarah (vv. 8-19), by the patriarchs (vv. 20-22), by Moses (vv. 23-28), or by the Exodus generation (vv. 29-31). These and others (vv. 32-38) won commendation for their faith, even though what God has given us is much better than what He provided for them (vv. 39-40). Christ has died for us. We exercise faith—and live for Him.

The believer’s personal application: How can faith be expressed in my daily life?

INSIGHT
"Faith" (11:1):
While the object of faith by its very nature cannot be seen, the writer will go on to remind us that its presence has a vital impact on our lives and character. Real faith produces startling results.

“An example” (11:3):
Creation is one of those things that by its nature cannot be seen (cf. v. 1). No one was there; no evidence available today can demonstrate origins. Throughout history various theories of origins have abounded, including the modern theory of macroevolution or theorized large-scale evolution. The believer, however, shapes his or her view of origins by revelation, and so understands all came into being by God's command. It is a peculiar thing that everyone holds his or her view by "faith," for no one can adduce, or offer evidence of proof. Only the believer who trusts God's Word really understands. So the faith that produces heroes is not a subjective thing, but confidence in God and His Word.

“We come to know God through faith” (11:6):
Stripped down to its basics, faith is confidence in God and His existence; believing with corresponding action. God "rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Only those who know God as a Person that loves, will dare to truly seek Him.

“Faith exhibited: persistent obedience” (11:7-16):
The writer goes on to further develop our grasp of this illusive thing called "faith." Noah and Abraham both show us that faith is exhibited as an obedient and persistent response to God's Word. For Noah faith meant a 120-year commitment despite popular ridicule to the construction of a great boat. For Abraham faith meant a lifetime living a nomadic life—and seeing his son and grandson live that same kind of life. Faith obeys God and keeps on obeying.

“Faith exhibited: an exalted vision” (11:17-23):
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Moses' parents all looked beyond present circumstances to a future shaped by God's promise. Abraham's vision is most stunning. Told to sacrifice his son Isaac, he was so totally convinced that God would keep His promise to give him offspring by Isaac that he concluded God would raise his son from the dead. Abraham knew that the vision God gave of the future would come true—as he continued to obey God.

“Faith exhibited: difficult choices” (11:24-28):
As "son of Pharaoh's daughter" Moses was in line to inherit Egypt's throne. Yet he chose to cast his lot with the slave people of his parents, valuing God's promises more than earthly treasures. Faith transforms our values and shapes our choices.

“Faith exhibited: victories and defeats” (11:29-38):
Faith is no guarantee of earthly success, though faith has won great victories. Our faith guarantees that we will please God, and ultimately He will reward us.

“Faith's fulfillment” (11:39-40):
It's easy to wonder at the Bible's heroes of faith. Especially when we realize they had relatively little knowledge of God. We should be motivated by the fact that we know Jesus; living a life of faith every day.