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Hebrews 11:3
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- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Through faith we understand - By worlds, τους αιωνας, we are to understand the material fabric of the universe; for αιων can have no reference here to age or any measurement of time, for he speaks of the things which are Seen; not being made out of the things which do Appear; this therefore must refer to the material creation: and as the word is used in the plural number, it may comprehend, not only the earth and visible heavens, but the whole planetary system; the different worlds which, in our system at least, revolve round the sun. The apostle states that these things were not made out of a pre-existent matter; for if they were, that matter, however extended or modified, must appear in that thing into which it is compounded and modified, consequently it could not be said that the things which are seen are not made of the things that appear; and he shows us also, by these words, that the present mundane fabric was not formed or reformed from one anterior, as some suppose. According to Moses and the apostle we believe that God made all things out of nothing. See the note on Gen 1:1, etc. At present we see trees of different kinds are produced from trees; beasts, birds, and fishes, from others of the same kind; and man, from man: but we are necessarily led to believe that there was a first man, who owed not his being to man; first there were beasts, etc., which did not derive their being from others of the same kind; and so of all manner of trees, plants, etc. God, therefore, made all these out of nothing; his word tells us so, and we credit that word.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we understand--We perceive with our spiritual intelligence the fact of the world's creation by God, though we see neither Him nor the act of creation as described in Gen. 1:1-31. The natural world could not, without revelation, teach us this truth, though it confirms the truth when apprehended by faith (Rom 1:20). Adam is passed over in silence here as to his faith, perhaps as being the first who fell and brought sin on us all; though it does not follow that he did not repent and believe the promise. worlds--literally, "ages"; all that exists in time and space, visible and invisible, present and eternal. framed--"fitly formed and consolidated"; including the creation of the single parts and the harmonious organization of the whole, and the continual providence which maintains the whole throughout all ages. As creation is the foundation and a specimen of the whole divine economy, so faith in creation is the foundation and a specimen of all faith [BENGEL]. by the word of God--not here, the personal word (Greek, "logos," Joh 1:1) but the spoken word (Greek, "rhema"); though by the instrumentality of the personal word (Heb 1:2). not made, &c.--Translate as Greek, "so that not out of things which appear hath that which is seen been made"; not as in the case of all things which we see reproduced from previously existing and visible materials, as, for instance, the plant from the seed, the animal from the parent, &c., has the visible world sprung into being from apparent materials. So also it is implied in the first clause of the verse that the invisible spiritual worlds were framed not from previously existing materials. BENGEL explains it by distinguishing "appear," that is, begin to be seen (namely, at creation), from that which is seen as already in existence, not merely beginning to be seen; so that the things seen were not made of the things which appear," that is, which begin to be seen by us in the act of creation. We were not spectators of creation; it is by faith we perceive it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain,.... The apostle proceeds to examples of faith, and begins with Abel: it may seem strange that Adam and Eve are not mentioned; this omission is not because they were not believers; but either because of the fall and ruin of mankind by them; or because the apostle speaks only of such who had received some eminent testimony by faith, and therefore passes by many believers, and hastens to Abraham, the father of the Jews. The superior excellency of Abel's sacrifice to Cain's, lay both in the matter, and in the manner of it; the one was offered heartily to the Lord, the other only in show; the one was offered in faith, the other not; Abel looked through his sacrifice to the sacrifice of Christ, not so Cain. Abel's sacrifice was a lamb, a type of Christ, the Lamb of God; a firstling, a figure of him who is the firstborn of every creature; one of the fattest of his flock, expressive of the excellency of Christ; and this was offered up at the end of days, as Christ at the end of the world; and the superior excellency of the sacrifice of the one to that of the other, appears from God's regard to the one, and not to the other, Gen 4:3 from whence it may be observed, that sacrifices were of divine institution, and were very early types of Christ; and that there always were two sorts of worshippers, spiritual and carnal ones, whom God can distinguish, for he seeth not as man seeth; that the acceptance of persons is in Christ, and is previous to their offerings; that whatsoever works do not spring from faith are unacceptable to God; that no dependence is to be had on birth privileges, or outward actions; and that electing and distinguishing grace very early took place, and appeared. By which he obtained witness that he was righteous; not righteous by his offering, nor by his faith, but by the righteousness of Christ, which his faith in his sacrifice looked unto; though it was by his faith that he obtained, or received a witness in his own conscience, from the Spirit of God, testifying that he was a justified person; and in consequence of this, he had an outward testimony bore to him in the Scriptures, that he was a righteous person hence he is called righteous Abel, Mat 23:35. God testifying of his gifts: not of his own gifts, temporal or spiritual, but of Abel's gifts, which he offered to the Lord; that is, his sacrifices; of these he testified, when he showed respect either by an audible voice, declaring his acceptance of them; or by sending down fire from heaven, upon his sacrifice, which in later times was a symbol of acceptance. And by it, he being dead, yet speaketh; good men die, and some of them die a violent death, as did Abel, yet he speaks in the Scriptures, which have a voice in them, Luk 16:29 or by his blood, which calls for vengeance; or rather by, or because of his faith, though he is dead, "he is yet spoken of", as the word may be rendered.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:3 That the entire universe was formed at God’s command is a basic belief of Jewish and Christian theology (see Gen 1:1-3). God created everything that we now see. A life of faith understands that, by analogy, God’s promises are real and will be called into reality by God himself, even if they are unseen at present.
Hebrews 11:3
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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) Evolution vs Creation
By J. Vernon McGee3.4K22:05GEN 1:26JOB 38:7PSA 19:1ISA 43:7MAT 6:33ROM 1:20HEB 11:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of evolution and its contrast with the biblical account of creation. He emphasizes that the true origin of the universe is unknown and that various theories exist, but ultimately, it is God who created everything out of nothing. The preacher criticizes some scientists' theories, such as the idea that humans originated from garbage or raw materials. He asserts that true freedom comes from choosing Jesus Christ as one's savior and that the creation of the world can only be understood through speculation or revelation.
Audio Sermon: Backsliding
By William MacDonald2.5K1:01:01PSA 51:10PSA 103:12PRO 28:13JOL 2:25JON 3:1ROM 7:181CO 9:27HEB 11:3JAS 4:81JN 1:9This sermon delves into the theme of backsliding, exploring the consequences and the way back to God's grace. It emphasizes the importance of confession, forsaking sin, and seeking restoration in relationships. The speaker highlights the need for a thorough spiritual house cleaning, including mending broken relationships and living daily in fellowship with the Lord. The message reassures believers of God's willingness to restore and redeem, offering a second chance to those who come back to Him.
Seminar 1 - the Age of the Earth
By Kent Hovind1.5K2:00:43GEN 1:11CO 6:182TI 3:16HEB 11:3JAS 1:27This seminar delves into profound questions about the purpose of life, the origin of humanity, and what happens after death. Dr. Hogan presents compelling evidence for a young Earth creation, aligning with the six-day creation account in Genesis. The speaker emphasizes the importance of faith in the infallible Word of God and addresses societal issues like premarital sex and the sanctity of marriage.
Origin of Man in Relation to the Theory of Evolution
By John Murray1.3K47:17EvolutionGEN 1:1PSA 33:6PSA 90:2PSA 91:3JHN 1:1COL 1:15HEB 11:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses three fundamental principles of Christian faith. The first principle is the belief in the word of God as the foundation of understanding. The preacher emphasizes that the visible world was created by the unseen word of God. The second principle is the recognition of the supernatural and miraculous intervention of God in our lives. While this intervention may not be continuous, it is a continuous exercise of God's will and power in maintaining reality. The third principle is the acknowledgement that natural processes and laws exist, but they do not limit or explain away the supernatural. The preacher concludes by highlighting the ultimate example of the supernatural in history, which is the incarnation of the Son of God.
Wonders of Creation Redemption - Part 1
By William MacDonald1.2K52:04RedemptionPSA 8:3PSA 104:24PSA 145:10PSA 147:4ISA 40:26ROM 1:20HEB 11:3In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the wonders of God in creation and emphasizes the need to have greater thoughts of God. He mentions the extraordinary coordination of mind, bones, and muscles that enable people to achieve incredible feats. The speaker also highlights the marvel of human sight and encourages gratitude for eyesight. He further discusses the masterpiece of God's creation, the human body, and mentions the intricate DNA structure and the transmission of artistic ability through generations. The sermon concludes by marveling at the body's emotions, the circulatory system, and the constant beating of the heart.
Seeking His Preeminence - Part 2
By Lehman Strauss1.1K30:28PreeminenceGEN 1:1GEN 17:5PSA 33:6PSA 33:9JHN 5:24ROM 4:17HEB 11:3JAS 1:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to the word of God. He shares a personal anecdote about his hearing checkup and how it reminded him of the significance of attentive listening. The preacher highlights the power of God's word to bring about change in people's lives and the ultimate goal of preaching and teaching the Bible. He references John 5:24, where Jesus states that those who hear His word and believe in Him have everlasting life. The preacher also discusses the self-interpretive nature of the Bible and encourages listeners to trace references and understand the context of verses. He concludes by urging the congregation to be attentive and responsive to God's word.
The Inner Groanings of Jesus
By Carter Conlon69050:15MAT 21:12JHN 11:32ACT 2:4ROM 8:26HEB 11:3This sermon focuses on the inner groanings of Jesus as seen in John chapter 11, highlighting the struggle of unbelief and the need to fully surrender to God's plan. The speaker emphasizes the importance of believing in God's supernatural power to bring life out of death and to trust in His promises for our lives. The message calls for a deep faith in God's ability to do the impossible and challenges listeners to break through barriers of unbelief and step into a supernatural life of faith and obedience.
Put God to the Test
By Shane Idleman51147:17DEU 30:19PSA 14:1ISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 8:16ROM 10:92CO 5:17EPH 2:8HEB 11:31PE 1:3This sermon delves into the evidence for creation, the harmony between science and faith, and the transformative power of a relationship with God. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the depth of God's love and the significance of the sacrifice of Jesus. The speaker addresses common questions and challenges regarding faith, morality, and the concept of hell, providing insightful explanations rooted in Scripture and historical evidence.
God - Fairytale or Fact?
By Shane Idleman956:15Relationship with GodThe Existence of GodGEN 1:1PSA 139:14ISA 40:28LUK 17:20JHN 6:35ROM 1:20EPH 1:13COL 1:271TH 5:19HEB 11:3Shane Idleman addresses the question of whether God is a fairytale or a fact, emphasizing the importance of understanding God's nature and character through a spirit-filled theology. He discusses the evidence of creation as a testament to God's existence, highlighting that the complexity of life and the universe points to a Creator. Idleman encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, warning against quenching the Holy Spirit and the consequences of a lack of spiritual fervor. He calls for a revival of passion for God and a commitment to living out one's faith actively, rather than passively attending church. Ultimately, he challenges the audience to consider their own beliefs about God and the implications of those beliefs in their lives.
Keeping Our Eyes on God's Greatness
By David Wilkerson0Trust in God's GreatnessGod's SovereigntyJOB 38:4PSA 19:1PSA 104:24ISA 40:26MAT 6:26ROM 1:20HEB 11:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of focusing on God's greatness, using the awe-inspiring experience of astronaut Charlie Duke as a metaphor for recognizing the Creator's power. He reflects on God's dialogue with Job, where God reveals His sovereignty over creation, urging Job to shift his perspective from his suffering to the majesty of God. Wilkerson highlights that by keeping our eyes on God's greatness, we can overcome fear and doubt that often cloud our hearts. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to trust in God's omnipotence and care for His creation.
Faith Defined
By K.P. Yohannan0Definition of FaithTrusting GodISA 55:10MAL 3:6ACT 16:31HEB 1:3HEB 11:1HEB 11:3K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1 as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. He explains that faith serves as the building blocks of God's promises, allowing believers to trust in the invisible realities of God's Word. Yohannan illustrates that true faith acknowledges the challenges we face while choosing to believe in God's power and faithfulness, even when His ways seem illogical. He encourages believers to adopt a childlike trust in God, highlighting that faith is not about understanding every detail but about relying on God's character and promises. Ultimately, faith is the means through which we experience God's miraculous work in our lives.
Of the Being of God.
By John Gill0The Existence of GodThe Nature of GodGEN 1:1PSA 14:1PSA 73:25ECC 2:17ISA 40:26ACT 17:27ROM 1:20EPH 2:12HEB 11:31PE 5:8John Gill emphasizes the foundational importance of the Being of God in his sermon 'Of the Being of God,' arguing that the existence of God is self-evident and universally acknowledged across cultures and ages. He presents multiple arguments for God's existence, including the innate sense of Deity in humanity, the evidence of creation, and the moral conscience that points to a higher power. Gill asserts that the belief in God is not only a natural instinct but also essential for understanding morality and accountability. He addresses objections to God's existence, reinforcing that even those who claim atheism often reveal a deep-seated awareness of a divine being. Ultimately, Gill's message is a call to recognize and affirm the reality of God as the source of all truth and morality.
2 Peter 3:5
By John Gill0Divine JudgmentCreationGEN 1:1GEN 7:11JOB 37:6PSA 24:2PSA 136:6JHN 1:16HEB 11:31PE 1:232PE 3:5John Gill emphasizes the willful ignorance of those who profess Christianity yet choose to disregard the foundational truths of creation and divine judgment. He explains that the heavens and the earth were created by God's word and that the earth was once covered by water, which serves as a reminder of the flood that destroyed the ungodly. Gill highlights that despite having access to revelation and scripture, many remain oblivious to the reality of God's power and the impending judgment. He urges believers to recognize the significance of God's word in both creation and preservation, as well as the eventual destruction of the current heavens and earth. This sermon serves as a call to awareness and understanding of God's sovereignty over creation and history.
Through Faith We Understand
By William MacDonald0FaithUnderstanding God's WordMAT 17:20JHN 11:40JHN 20:29ROM 1:172CO 5:7EPH 2:8HEB 11:1HEB 11:3JAS 1:51JN 5:13William MacDonald emphasizes the principle that understanding comes through faith, contrasting the world's view of 'seeing is believing' with God's perspective of 'believing is seeing.' He illustrates this through the experiences of Billy Graham, who faced doubts about the Bible but ultimately surrendered to God's Word, accepting it by faith. This act of faith transformed Graham's ministry, allowing him to preach with authority and conviction. MacDonald encourages believers to trust in God's promises and to embrace faith as the foundation for understanding spiritual truths.
By Faith We Understand
By Andrew Murray0FaithSpiritual UnderstandingROM 1:20EPH 1:17HEB 11:3Andrew Murray emphasizes that true understanding comes from the heart through faith, rather than from reason or intellect. He explains that once faith takes hold of the heart, it enables spiritual understanding and allows us to perceive divine truths. Murray encourages believers to recognize that the created order reveals God's presence rather than obscuring it, highlighting the importance of faith in worship and action.
God's Place as Creator
By A.W. Tozer0God as CreatorRecognizing God's GloryGEN 1:1JOB 12:7PSA 19:1PSA 104:24ISA 6:3JHN 1:3ROM 1:20COL 1:16HEB 11:3REV 4:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence as both Creator and Redeemer in all aspects of life, urging us to admire Him in nature as well as in grace. He suggests that acknowledging God's creative power enhances our understanding of His redeeming grace, allowing us to expand our spiritual awareness to encompass all of creation. Tozer illustrates this with the example of William Blake, who, while observing a sunrise, perceives not just beauty but the glory of God, reminding us that the earth is filled with His majesty. By believing and obeying, we can broaden our spiritual horizons and appreciate the divine in every facet of existence.
Time and Space
By John Nelson Darby0EternityGod's NaturePSA 90:2PSA 139:7ECC 3:11ISA 57:15JHN 1:1ROM 11:33COL 1:17HEB 11:32PE 3:8REV 21:1John Nelson Darby explores the concepts of time and space, emphasizing that our understanding of time is limited to the present moment, 'now,' and that all events are relative to God's eternal existence. He argues that while we can measure time through events, God's nature is unchanging and eternal, existing beyond our finite comprehension. Darby also discusses the limitations of our understanding of space, asserting that we can only conceive of it in relation to bounded areas, and that true infinity cannot be fully grasped. He concludes that our knowledge of God transcends time and space, as He exists beyond our finite perceptions. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God's eternal nature and our relationship with Him beyond temporal constraints.
The Old and New Creation
By Horatius Bonar0CreationFaith in GodGEN 1:1PSA 104:30ISA 65:17JHN 1:2ROM 8:212CO 5:17COL 1:16HEB 11:31JN 1:2REV 21:5Horatius Bonar emphasizes the significance of faith in understanding the creation narrative in Genesis 1, asserting that God, the one true Creator, brought the universe into existence from nothing. He describes the initial chaos and darkness that existed before God's creative act, followed by the life and light that emerged through the Spirit of God. Bonar highlights the order, beauty, fruitfulness, and inherent goodness of creation, culminating in God's declaration that it was 'very good.' He reminds us that while creation is marred by sin, it will ultimately be restored in the new heavens and new earth, where righteousness dwells.
The Link Between Being and Non-Being
By Horatius Bonar0Divine CommunicationThe Power of God's WordGEN 1:3PSA 33:6JHN 1:1HEB 11:3Horatius Bonar emphasizes the profound connection between God's spoken word and creation, illustrating how God's authority and power are manifested through His speech. He explains that the act of creation is both immediate and mediate, with God's word serving as the vital link between non-being and being. Bonar highlights that God's word continues to resonate in the universe, sustaining all things and speaking to humanity through creation, scripture, providences, and the Sabbath. He urges listeners to recognize the divine voice in everyday life and the importance of responding to it. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a deeper understanding of the power of words, both divine and human, and the responsibility that comes with them.
Man: His Creation
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0GEN 1:1ECC 12:7MAT 10:28MAT 11:27MRK 8:36JHN 3:31CO 2:122CO 4:16COL 1:161TH 5:23HEB 4:12HEB 11:3Lewis Sperry Chafer discusses the importance of understanding the origin of man and all existing things, emphasizing that God has revealed these facts in the Bible, which becomes real to those saved through Christ. The division among men lies in whether God is real enough to be accepted as the Creator. The Scriptures teach that man, created in God's image, is the conclusion of all creation, with a two-fold distinction of material and immaterial aspects. The sermon delves into the distinctions between the soul and spirit of man, presenting three main theories on their origin: Pre-existence, Creation, and Traducian theories.
The Supernatural God
By A.B. Simpson0Faith in God's ProvisionGod's SovereigntyGEN 1:1ISA 40:31JER 33:3MAT 28:18PHP 4:19HEB 11:3REV 22:13A.B. Simpson emphasizes the centrality of God in the Bible, beginning with 'In the beginning God' and concluding with the revelation of Jesus Christ. He highlights that God's presence is essential for understanding our purpose and fulfilling our needs, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Abraham, Moses, and Isaiah. Simpson encourages believers to recognize God's sovereignty and all-sufficiency, asserting that true faith involves trusting in the supernatural God who can create and provide for our needs. He warns against self-sufficiency and pride, urging a humble reliance on God's power and presence in our lives. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with God, leading to a transformative experience of His glory.
What Faith Does
By R. Stanley0HEB 11:3R. Stanley preaches on the characteristics and actions of faith, emphasizing the importance of obtaining a good testimony, understanding the creative power of God's Word, offering the first and best to God, seeking to please God in everything, and believing that God answers diligent prayer. Faith also involves taking God's warnings seriously, obeying God without questioning, stepping out to possess new territories, living with eternity in view, and looking to God alone while laughing at impossibilities.
The Soul, the Spirit and the Evil Spiritual Powers
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareIdentity in ChristLUK 22:3JHN 10:10ACT 26:18ROM 8:372CO 10:3EPH 6:122TH 2:11HEB 11:31JN 4:4JUD 1:6T. Austin-Sparks addresses the complex relationship between the soul, spirit, and evil spiritual powers, emphasizing that while the soul can be influenced by demonic forces, true identity and victory for believers lie in their spiritual union with God through Christ. He explains that many suffer from mental and physical afflictions that can lead to feelings of despair and self-doubt, but these do not define their status as children of God. Sparks distinguishes between demon domination and possession, warning that the enemy seeks to exploit the soul's vulnerabilities. Ultimately, he encourages believers to recognize their spiritual reality and the power of Christ over all evil forces, asserting that true service and warfare are rooted in this spiritual understanding.
Natural Law in the Spiritual World
By Henry Drummond0JOB 12:7PSA 19:1PRO 3:5JHN 1:3ROM 1:201CO 2:14COL 1:17HEB 11:3Henry Drummond preaches about the potential unity of Natural Law in the Spiritual World, challenging the traditional separation between the two realms. He argues that just as the laws of nature have transformed knowledge into science, the spiritual laws should also be subject to the same scrutiny and integration. By seeking to understand and apply natural laws to the spiritual realm, Drummond aims to provide a scientific basis for faith and morality, bridging the gap between science and religion. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the harmony and continuity between the natural and spiritual worlds, suggesting that a deeper understanding of spiritual truths can be achieved through the lens of scientific principles.
The Sermon on the Mount - Part 1
By St. Augustine0MAT 4:21MRK 1:19LUK 6:40ROM 9:221CO 1:102CO 13:11GAL 6:11TH 3:10HEB 10:5HEB 11:31PE 5:10The preacher from Greek Word Studies delves into the meaning of 'katartízō,' which signifies fitting or joining together to mend or repair, restoring to a former condition. This term is used in various contexts in the New Testament and the Septuagint, emphasizing equipping, restoring, and making whole. The essence of 'katartízō' is to prepare, equip, and supply what is lacking, ultimately restoring individuals to their intended purpose and completeness, especially in the face of trials and suffering.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Through faith we understand - By worlds, τους αιωνας, we are to understand the material fabric of the universe; for αιων can have no reference here to age or any measurement of time, for he speaks of the things which are Seen; not being made out of the things which do Appear; this therefore must refer to the material creation: and as the word is used in the plural number, it may comprehend, not only the earth and visible heavens, but the whole planetary system; the different worlds which, in our system at least, revolve round the sun. The apostle states that these things were not made out of a pre-existent matter; for if they were, that matter, however extended or modified, must appear in that thing into which it is compounded and modified, consequently it could not be said that the things which are seen are not made of the things that appear; and he shows us also, by these words, that the present mundane fabric was not formed or reformed from one anterior, as some suppose. According to Moses and the apostle we believe that God made all things out of nothing. See the note on Gen 1:1, etc. At present we see trees of different kinds are produced from trees; beasts, birds, and fishes, from others of the same kind; and man, from man: but we are necessarily led to believe that there was a first man, who owed not his being to man; first there were beasts, etc., which did not derive their being from others of the same kind; and so of all manner of trees, plants, etc. God, therefore, made all these out of nothing; his word tells us so, and we credit that word.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we understand--We perceive with our spiritual intelligence the fact of the world's creation by God, though we see neither Him nor the act of creation as described in Gen. 1:1-31. The natural world could not, without revelation, teach us this truth, though it confirms the truth when apprehended by faith (Rom 1:20). Adam is passed over in silence here as to his faith, perhaps as being the first who fell and brought sin on us all; though it does not follow that he did not repent and believe the promise. worlds--literally, "ages"; all that exists in time and space, visible and invisible, present and eternal. framed--"fitly formed and consolidated"; including the creation of the single parts and the harmonious organization of the whole, and the continual providence which maintains the whole throughout all ages. As creation is the foundation and a specimen of the whole divine economy, so faith in creation is the foundation and a specimen of all faith [BENGEL]. by the word of God--not here, the personal word (Greek, "logos," Joh 1:1) but the spoken word (Greek, "rhema"); though by the instrumentality of the personal word (Heb 1:2). not made, &c.--Translate as Greek, "so that not out of things which appear hath that which is seen been made"; not as in the case of all things which we see reproduced from previously existing and visible materials, as, for instance, the plant from the seed, the animal from the parent, &c., has the visible world sprung into being from apparent materials. So also it is implied in the first clause of the verse that the invisible spiritual worlds were framed not from previously existing materials. BENGEL explains it by distinguishing "appear," that is, begin to be seen (namely, at creation), from that which is seen as already in existence, not merely beginning to be seen; so that the things seen were not made of the things which appear," that is, which begin to be seen by us in the act of creation. We were not spectators of creation; it is by faith we perceive it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain,.... The apostle proceeds to examples of faith, and begins with Abel: it may seem strange that Adam and Eve are not mentioned; this omission is not because they were not believers; but either because of the fall and ruin of mankind by them; or because the apostle speaks only of such who had received some eminent testimony by faith, and therefore passes by many believers, and hastens to Abraham, the father of the Jews. The superior excellency of Abel's sacrifice to Cain's, lay both in the matter, and in the manner of it; the one was offered heartily to the Lord, the other only in show; the one was offered in faith, the other not; Abel looked through his sacrifice to the sacrifice of Christ, not so Cain. Abel's sacrifice was a lamb, a type of Christ, the Lamb of God; a firstling, a figure of him who is the firstborn of every creature; one of the fattest of his flock, expressive of the excellency of Christ; and this was offered up at the end of days, as Christ at the end of the world; and the superior excellency of the sacrifice of the one to that of the other, appears from God's regard to the one, and not to the other, Gen 4:3 from whence it may be observed, that sacrifices were of divine institution, and were very early types of Christ; and that there always were two sorts of worshippers, spiritual and carnal ones, whom God can distinguish, for he seeth not as man seeth; that the acceptance of persons is in Christ, and is previous to their offerings; that whatsoever works do not spring from faith are unacceptable to God; that no dependence is to be had on birth privileges, or outward actions; and that electing and distinguishing grace very early took place, and appeared. By which he obtained witness that he was righteous; not righteous by his offering, nor by his faith, but by the righteousness of Christ, which his faith in his sacrifice looked unto; though it was by his faith that he obtained, or received a witness in his own conscience, from the Spirit of God, testifying that he was a justified person; and in consequence of this, he had an outward testimony bore to him in the Scriptures, that he was a righteous person hence he is called righteous Abel, Mat 23:35. God testifying of his gifts: not of his own gifts, temporal or spiritual, but of Abel's gifts, which he offered to the Lord; that is, his sacrifices; of these he testified, when he showed respect either by an audible voice, declaring his acceptance of them; or by sending down fire from heaven, upon his sacrifice, which in later times was a symbol of acceptance. And by it, he being dead, yet speaketh; good men die, and some of them die a violent death, as did Abel, yet he speaks in the Scriptures, which have a voice in them, Luk 16:29 or by his blood, which calls for vengeance; or rather by, or because of his faith, though he is dead, "he is yet spoken of", as the word may be rendered.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:3 That the entire universe was formed at God’s command is a basic belief of Jewish and Christian theology (see Gen 1:1-3). God created everything that we now see. A life of faith understands that, by analogy, God’s promises are real and will be called into reality by God himself, even if they are unseen at present.