Hebrews 11
BSB1 Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. 2 This is why the ancients were commended. 3 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. 4 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. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he did not see death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. 6 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. 7 By 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. 8 By 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. 9 By 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. 10 For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. 11 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. 12 And 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. 13 All 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. 14 Now those who say such things show that they are seeking a country of their own. 15 If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 Instead, 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. 17 By 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, 18 even though God had said to him, “Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned." 19 Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death. 20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning the future. 21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. 22 By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. 23 By 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. 24 By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin. 26 He valued disgrace for Christ above the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible. 28 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. 29 By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to follow, they were drowned. 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days. 31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient. 32 And what more shall I say? Time will not allow me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets, 33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, 34 quenched 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. 35 Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused their release, so that they might gain a better resurrection. 36 Still others endured mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawed in two, they were put to death by the sword. They went around in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, oppressed, and mistreated. 38 The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and hid in caves and holes in the ground. 39 These were all commended for their faith, yet they did not receive what was promised. 40 God had planned something better for us, so that together with us they would be made perfect.
Study Notes — Hebrews 11
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Hebrews 11
- Themes from Hebrews 11
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Hebrews 11
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Hebrews 11 begins by defining faith as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, as stated in Hebrews 11:1. The author then proceeds to give examples of faith from the Old Testament, starting with the creation story and the early patriarchs, such as Abel, Enoch, and Noah. The chapter highlights the faith of Abraham, who was called to leave his home and family to go to a land that God would show him, as seen in Hebrews 11:8-10. It also mentions the faith of Moses, who chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season, as stated in Hebrews 11:24-26. The chapter concludes by emphasizing that all these examples of faith are a testament to the power of God and the importance of trusting in Him, as seen in Hebrews 11:39-40.
Context for the Chapter
Hebrews 11 is part of a larger argument in the book of Hebrews that Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God and the only mediator between God and humanity. The chapter is situated in the middle of the book, following the discussion of the priesthood of Christ and preceding the emphasis on the importance of perseverance in our faith. The chapter is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, as it looks back to the Old Testament examples of faith and forward to the ultimate reward that Christ will bring.
Heart Application
As we read through Hebrews 11, we are challenged to examine our own faith and to trust in God, even when the circumstances seem impossible. We are encouraged to look to the examples of the Old Testament saints and to follow in their footsteps, trusting in the same God who was faithful to them. We are also reminded of the importance of perseverance in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, as we look to the ultimate reward that Christ will bring.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Hebrews 11 is a chapter that shows us what faith looks like in real life. It gives us examples of people in the Bible who trusted in God, even when things seemed impossible. We can learn from their examples and trust in God too, as seen in Hebrews 11:6. By looking to the ultimate reward that Christ will bring, we can persevere in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure.
Voices from the Church
“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. It is the anchor of the soul, which holds us fast to the Rock of Ages.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“Faith is not a mere notion or opinion, but a firm and sure confidence in the promises of God, which is wrought in the heart by the Holy Spirit.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Faith (Hebrews 11:1-3) — The author defines faith and provides examples of its power, as seen in the creation story and the early patriarchs.
- The Faith of the Patriarchs (Hebrews 11:4-22) — The author highlights the faith of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah, as seen in Hebrews 11:4-12.
- The Faith of Moses and Others (Hebrews 11:23-31) — The author emphasizes the faith of Moses, who chose to suffer affliction with the people of God, as seen in Hebrews 11:24-26.
- The Faith of the Prophets and Others (Hebrews 11:32-38) — The author mentions the faith of the prophets and others who were tortured, imprisoned, and killed for their faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:32-38.
- Conclusion (Hebrews 11:39-40) — The author concludes by emphasizing that all these examples of faith are a testament to the power of God and the importance of trusting in Him.
Core Doctrines
- Justification by Faith
- Hebrews 11 emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God, as stated in Hebrews 11:6. It highlights the necessity of believing in God's existence and His reward for those who seek Him.
- The Perseverance of the Saints
- The chapter emphasizes the need to persevere in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, as seen in the example of Moses in Hebrews 11:24-26.
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter highlights the consistency of God's character and His faithfulness to His people throughout history, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
- The Importance of Trust in God
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God, even when the circumstances seem impossible, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
Lessons from Hebrews 11
- The Importance of Faith — Hebrews 11 teaches us that faith is essential for pleasing God and for living a life that is pleasing to Him, as seen in Hebrews 11:6.
- The Power of Faith — The chapter shows us that faith can overcome even the most daunting obstacles, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
- The Consistency of God's Character — The chapter highlights the consistency of God's character and His faithfulness to His people throughout history, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
- The Importance of Perseverance — The chapter emphasizes the need to persevere in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, as seen in the example of Moses in Hebrews 11:24-26.
- The Ultimate Reward — The chapter reminds us that our faith is not in vain, but that we will receive an ultimate reward from God, as seen in Hebrews 11:39-40.
Themes from Hebrews 11
- Faith and Trust — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and having faith in His power and promises, as seen in Hebrews 11:1-6.
- Perseverance and Endurance — The chapter highlights the need to persevere in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, as seen in the example of Moses in Hebrews 11:24-26.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter emphasizes the consistency of God's character and His faithfulness to His people throughout history, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter teaches us that obedience to God is essential for living a life that is pleasing to Him, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
- The Ultimate Reward — The chapter reminds us that our faith is not in vain, but that we will receive an ultimate reward from God, as seen in Hebrews 11:39-40.
Questions for Meditation
- What does it mean to have faith, according to Hebrews 11:1?
- How does the example of Abraham's faith challenge or encourage you?
- What does it mean to please God, according to Hebrews 11:6?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of perseverance in our faith?
- What does the chapter teach us about the character of God?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Faith (Hebrews 11:1-3)
| Hebrews 11:1 | The author defines faith as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. |
| Hebrews 11:2 | The author provides examples of the power of faith, as seen in the creation story and the early patriarchs. |
2. The Faith of the Patriarchs (Hebrews 11:4-22)
| Hebrews 11:4 | The author highlights the faith of Abel, who offered a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain. |
| Hebrews 11:5 | The author mentions the faith of Enoch, who was taken up to heaven without experiencing death. |
| Hebrews 11:6 | The author emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God, as stated in Hebrews 11:6. |
| Hebrews 11:7 | The author highlights the faith of Noah, who built an ark to save his family and two of every kind of animal from the flood. |
| Hebrews 11:8 | The author emphasizes the faith of Abraham, who was called to leave his home and family to go to a land that God would show him. |
| Hebrews 11:9 | The author mentions the faith of Isaac and Jacob, who were also called to trust in God's promises. |
| Hebrews 11:10 | The author highlights the faith of Abraham, who looked forward to the city that God would build. |
| Hebrews 11:11 | The author mentions the faith of Sarah, who was able to bear children because she trusted in God's promise. |
| Hebrews 11:12 | The author emphasizes the faith of Abraham, who was able to have many descendants because he trusted in God's promise. |
| Hebrews 11:13 | The author highlights the faith of the patriarchs, who all died in faith, not having received the things promised. |
| Hebrews 11:14 | The author mentions the faith of the patriarchs, who admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. |
| Hebrews 11:15 | The author emphasizes the faith of the patriarchs, who were looking for a heavenly country. |
| Hebrews 11:16 | The author highlights the faith of the patriarchs, who were not afraid to die, because they knew that God would raise them up. |
| Hebrews 11:17 | The author mentions the faith of Abraham, who was willing to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. |
| Hebrews 11:18 | The author emphasizes the faith of Abraham, who was promised that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. |
| Hebrews 11:19 | The author highlights the faith of Abraham, who was able to see the resurrection of his son Isaac. |
| Hebrews 11:20 | The author mentions the faith of Isaac, who blessed Jacob and Esau. |
| Hebrews 11:21 | The author emphasizes the faith of Jacob, who blessed each of Joseph's sons. |
| Hebrews 11:22 | The author highlights the faith of Joseph, who spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. |
3. The Faith of Moses and Others (Hebrews 11:23-31)
| Hebrews 11:23 | The author highlights the faith of Moses' parents, who hid him for three months because they saw that he was no ordinary child. |
| Hebrews 11:24 | The author mentions the faith of Moses, who refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter. |
| Hebrews 11:25 | The author emphasizes the faith of Moses, who chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. |
| Hebrews 11:26 | The author highlights the faith of Moses, who considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt. |
| Hebrews 11:27 | The author mentions the faith of Moses, who persevered because he saw Him who is invisible. |
| Hebrews 11:28 | The author emphasizes the faith of Moses, who kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel. |
| Hebrews 11:29 | The author highlights the faith of the Israelites, who passed through the Red Sea as if on dry land. |
| Hebrews 11:30 | The author mentions the faith of the Israelites, who marched around Jericho for seven days and then saw its walls collapse. |
| Hebrews 11:31 | The author emphasizes the faith of Rahab, who welcomed the spies and sent them out safely, and so was not killed with those who were disobedient. |
4. The Faith of the Prophets and Others (Hebrews 11:32-38)
| Hebrews 11:32 | The author mentions the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. |
| Hebrews 11:33 | The author highlights the faith of those who conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised. |
| Hebrews 11:34 | The author emphasizes the faith of those who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword. |
| Hebrews 11:35 | The author mentions the faith of women who received back their dead, raised to life again. |
| Hebrews 11:36 | The author highlights the faith of those who were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. |
| Hebrews 11:37 | The author emphasizes the faith of those who faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. |
| Hebrews 11:38 | The author mentions the faith of those who were destitute, persecuted, and mistreated. |
5. Conclusion (Hebrews 11:39-40)
| Hebrews 11:39 | The author concludes by emphasizing that all these examples of faith are a testament to the power of God and the importance of trusting in Him. |
| Hebrews 11:40 | The author mentions that God had planned something better for us, so that only together with us would they be made perfect. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of faith in Hebrews 11:1?
According to Hebrews 11:1, faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
What is the ultimate reward that Christ will bring?
The ultimate reward that Christ will bring is the fulfillment of God's promises and the perfection of our faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:39-40.
How does the chapter emphasize the importance of perseverance in our faith?
The chapter emphasizes the need to persevere in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, as seen in the example of Moses in Hebrews 11:24-26 and the examples of the prophets and others in Hebrews 11:32-38.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hebrews 11:1 → Genesis 1:1 | The creation story is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:1 and Genesis 1:1. |
| 2 | Hebrews 11:4 → Genesis 4:1-16 | The story of Abel is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:4 and Genesis 4:1-16. |
| 3 | Hebrews 11:5 → Genesis 5:18-24 | The story of Enoch is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:5 and Genesis 5:18-24. |
| 4 | Hebrews 11:6 → John 1:1 | The importance of faith in pleasing God is emphasized in Hebrews 11:6 and John 1:1. |
| 5 | Hebrews 11:7 → Genesis 6:1-9:29 | The story of Noah is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:7 and Genesis 6:1-9:29. |
| 6 | Hebrews 11:8 → Genesis 12:1-3 | The story of Abraham is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:8 and Genesis 12:1-3. |
| 7 | Hebrews 11:24 → Exodus 2:1-10 | The story of Moses is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:24 and Exodus 2:1-10. |
| 8 | Hebrews 11:32 → Judges 6:1-8:35 | The story of Gideon is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:32 and Judges 6:1-8:35. |
| 9 | Hebrews 11:33 → 1 Samuel 17:1-58 | The story of David is an example of the power of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:33 and 1 Samuel 17:1-58. |
| 10 | Hebrews 11:39 → Romans 8:28 | The ultimate reward that Christ will bring is the fulfillment of God's promises and the perfection of our faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:39 and Romans 8:28. |
Sermons on Hebrews 11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Craving for the Presence - Part 1 by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of craving the presence of the Lord amidst challenging times, highlighting the need to prioritize seeking God's presence over solely relying o |
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(Alabama) the Prodigal by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher shares a heart-to-heart talk about the story of the Prodigal Son from the Bible. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the uncond |
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Choosing Rather to Suffer by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of dedication and sacrifice in our pursuit of righteousness. He uses examples of athletes who train for hours every day to ach |
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Laws of Spiritual Progress - Part 1 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker discusses two lessons they have learned about making spiritual progress. The first principle they emphasize is the importance of taking a step of faith |
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(1 Peter - Part 21): As Strangers & Pilgrims, Abstain From Fleshly Lusts by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that as Christians, we are pilgrims journeying home and our only real enemies are within us. God has changed the external world and protecte |
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(Hebrews) 2-Moses by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Moses and his commitment to serving God. The speaker highlights Moses' dedication by mentioning his 40 days of fasting and his |
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(Hebrews) 1-Overview-2 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the feeling of God's hiddenness and the darkness that comes when God withdraws his favor. He emphasizes the need for God's truth to set us fr |
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(Hebrews) 3-Cain and Abel by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher discusses various topics related to faith and obedience to God. He mentions the story of Noah and the ark, highlighting how God's plan was perfect and |
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But Suppose God Doesn't Do It by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the book of Daniel. He highlights how their faith in God allowed them to be delivered from |
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Set Your Affections Above - Part 1 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on 2nd Corinthians chapter 4 and highlights the idea that everything in the universe is for the sake of believers. The speaker emphasizes that a |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Hebrews 11
In Hebrews 11, the apostle Paul provides a comprehensive overview of the nature of faith and its practical application in the lives of believers. He defines faith as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, and then proceeds to give numerous examples of men and women in the Bible who demonstrated extraordinary faith, despite the challenges and pressures they faced. The chapter is a testament to the power of God and the importance of trusting in Him, and it reminds us that our faith is not in vain, but that we will receive an ultimate reward from God. As Matthew Henry notes, 'Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. It is the anchor of the soul, which holds us fast to the Rock of Ages.' The chapter emphasizes the importance of perseverance in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, and it reminds us that God is faithful to His people and will fulfill His promises to us. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Faith is not just a feeling
The examples of faith in Hebrews 11 demonstrate that faith is a living, active trust in God that transforms our lives and enables us to overcome challenges.
God is the same yesterday, today, and forever
The chapter highlights the consistency of God's character and His faithfulness to His people throughout history, as seen in the examples of the Old Testament saints.
The importance of perseverance
The chapter emphasizes the need to persevere in our faith, even in the face of adversity and pressure, as seen in the example of Moses in Hebrews 11:24-26.