What Is Faith? | Hebrews 11:1-3

To understand the characters of faith, we will need to know what faith is. Is it a feeling or an action; an attitude or conviction? While looking at definitions of the word “faith” in Greek lexicons is helpful, the Hebrew writer prefers to show us faith in the lives of God’s children. It is that faith we must emulate in our lives to be pleasing to God.

The Faith of Enoch | Hebrews 11:5, 6

Enoch is a somewhat mysterious figure to us, but the record of Hebrews 11 along with Genesis 5 gives us some insight on his family. We will consider a few points about him, including the meaning of his name, and his relatively short life of 365 years.

They Died In Faith | Hebrews 11:13-16

Abraham, Sarah, Abel, Noah, and the “elders” all died in faith. Their lives were committed to serving God and pursuing a goal He set before them, but never realized it while on earth. That is dedication. They could do so because they were “assured of them.”

The “Legends of Faith” did not get distracted with their past or the cares of this life. Why? Because they wanted something better. Imagine someone like Abraham who was “very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold” considered God’s promises better (Gen. 13:2). His treasures were in heaven, not on earth.

Great Feats and Great Suffering | Hebrews 11:33-12:2

It is hard to fathom, but the men and women of old accomplished the “impossible.” They endured great pain and suffering for the cause of God. Something we need to keep in mind is the fact that they were people, human, just like you and me. They had struggles, fears, sorrows, passions, dreams, and setbacks. Yet, they still lived in a way that honored God and changed the world. They played a part in the unfolding of the “scheme of redemption” to help move it forward for generations to follow. May our faith be as strong and resilient.