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Hebrews 11:5
Verse
Context
The Faith of Abel, Enoch, Noah
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 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.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
By faith Enoch was translated - It is said, in Gen 5:24, that Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him. Here the apostle explains what God's taking him means, by saying that he was translated that he should not see death; from which we learn that he did not die, and that God took him to a state of blessedness without obliging him to pass through death. See his history explained at large in the above place, in Gen 5:22-24.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Faith was the ground of his pleasing God; and his pleasing God was the ground of his translation. translated-- (Gen 5:22, Gen 5:24). Implying a sudden removal (the same Greek as in Gal 1:6) from mortality without death to immortality: such a CHANGE as shall pass over the living at Christ's coming (Co1 15:51-52). had this testimony--namely of Scripture; the Greek perfect implies that this testimony continues still: "he has been testified of." pleased God--The Scripture testimony virtually expresses that he pleased God, namely, "Enoch walked with God." The Septuagint translates the Hebrew for "walked with God," Gen 6:9, pleased God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But without faith it is impossible to please him,.... Or do things well pleasing in his sight; or any of the duties of religion, in an acceptable way; as prayer, praise, attendance on the word and ordinances, or any good works whatever; because such are without Christ, and without his Spirit; and have neither right principles, nor right ends: for this is not to be understood of the persons of God's elect, as considered in Christ; in whom they are well pleasing to him before faith; being loved by him with an everlasting love; and chosen in Christ, before the foundation of the world; See Gill on Rom 8:8. for he that cometh to God; to the throne of, his grace, to pray unto him, to implore his grace and mercy, help and assistance; to the house of God, to worship, and serve him, and in order to enjoy his presence, and have communion with him; which coming ought to be spiritual and with the heart; and supposes spiritual life; and must be through Christ, and by faith: wherefore such a comer to God, must believe that he is; or exists, as the Arabic version; and he must not barely believe his existence, but that, as it is revealed in the word: he must believe in the three Persons in the Godhead; that the first Person is the Father of Christ; that the second Person is both the Son of God, and Mediator; and that the third Person is the Spirit of them both, and the applier of all grace; for God the Father is to be approached unto, through Christ the Mediator, by the guidance and assistance of the Spirit: and he must believe in the perfections of God; that he is omniscient, and knows his person and wants; is omnipotent, and can do for him, beyond his thoughts and petitions; is all sufficient, and that his grace is sufficient for him; that he is immutable, in his purposes and covenant; that he is true and faithful to his promises; and is the God of grace, love, and mercy: and he must believe in him, not only as the God of nature and providence, but as his covenant God and Father in Christ: and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him; who are such, as are first sought out by him; and who seek him in Christ, where he is only to be found; and that with their whole hearts, and above all things else: and, of such, God is a rewarder, in a way of grace; with himself, who is their exceeding great reward; and with his Son, and all things with him; with more grace; and, at last, with eternal glory, the reward of the inheritance.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:5 Enoch was taken up to heaven and thus did not face a normal death (see Gen 5:21-24). • “he disappeared, because God took him”: Gen 5:24.
Hebrews 11:5
The Faith of Abel, Enoch, Noah
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 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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) Genesis 6:8-12
By J. Vernon McGee2.6K04:21GEN 3:15GEN 4:3GEN 6:3GEN 6:8HEB 11:5HEB 11:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of man's promise of a Redeemer and the need for humanity to look for a Savior. The story of Cain and Abel is used as an example of two contrasting systems of belief, representing the lost and the saved, the self-righteous and the broken-spirited. The preacher explains that God decided to send the flood because the earth had become corrupt and filled with violence, with humanity turning away from God's purpose. However, Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord because he was a just and righteous man who walked with God. His faith in God's warning led him to prepare an ark, demonstrating his trust in God's plan. The preacher also mentions that when the church is taken out, every believer will be included because it is for believers.
(Genesis #7) Enoch Walked With God
By J. Glyn Owen2.1K48:42EnochGEN 3:19GEN 4:17GEN 5:24MAT 6:33HEB 11:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the transformative power of walking with God. He uses the example of Zacchaeus, who was changed after spending just an hour with Jesus. The preacher emphasizes that even a short time in the presence of God can have a profound impact on a person's life. The sermon also explores the concept of a companionship between God and man, highlighting the principles implied in such a relationship.
(Through the Bible) Hebrews 11
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:15:58GEN 12:1GEN 22:1ACT 8:26HEB 11:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses how God often leads us one step at a time, which can be challenging for us. He uses the examples of Abraham and Philip to illustrate this point. Abraham was told by God to leave his land without knowing where he was going, while Philip was commanded to leave a successful revival and go to a desert place. The speaker emphasizes that we were created for God's pleasure and that the material world we see is made up of invisible atoms. He concludes by highlighting the power of faith and how it is through faith that the elders obtained a good report.
Living a Broken Life Before God
By Gerhard Du Toit1.6K39:28BrokennessROM 12:1HEB 11:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of task-oriented praying and intercessory prayer. He refers to the story in Luke chapter 11 about a friend who comes to borrow three loaves of bread at midnight. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will and praying according to it. He also highlights the need for a vision of God and the burden of God in our lives. The sermon concludes with a reference to Moses and the burning bush, emphasizing the importance of brokenness and purity of heart in prayer.
Walking With God in Your Generation (Norwegian)
By Zac Poonen1.3K59:25GEN 5:22ISA 58:13LUK 21:24ACT 2:171CO 14:1HEB 4:9HEB 11:5HEB 11:72PE 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking with God and living a life that pleases Him, drawing inspiration from the examples of Enoch and Noah. It challenges young people to have a radical conversion like Enoch, to desire to prophesy, and to condemn the world by their way of life. The speaker highlights the need for strict yet loving parenting, involving children in building the church, and responding wholeheartedly to the call of God.
Pleasing God - Pt. 2
By Kay Smith95949:01Pleasing GodPSA 37:4PSA 119:105PRO 16:7JER 29:13MAT 6:33HEB 11:5JAS 4:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking and knowing God as a personal being. They encourage the audience to study the Bible and other Christian literature to understand how God interacts with individuals. The speaker also highlights the life of Jesus as a way to understand God's character and actions. They emphasize the need to diligently seek God and share personal testimonies of how God has answered their prayers and done the impossible in their lives.
(Genesis) Genesis 5:11-6:22
By Joe Focht6901:05:08GEN 6:7MAT 6:33HEB 11:51PE 3:18JUD 1:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accepting Jesus as the Son of God and believing in his sacrifice on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. The speaker also warns about the impending global judgment and the need for personal salvation. The sermon discusses the corruption and violence on earth, attributing it to the mingling of fallen angels and humans, resulting in the birth of giants. The speaker urges listeners to share the message of salvation with their loved ones and emphasizes the accountability of every individual to God.
Two Men Who Did Not Die Enoch and Elijah
By Svend Christensen45340:191KI 17:1HEB 11:52PE 2:5JUD 1:14In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing the story of Elijah's translation in 2 Kings chapter 2. He emphasizes that Elijah was taken up to heaven without experiencing death, which is a promise for all Christians. The preacher then turns to 1 Corinthians chapter 4 and urges the audience to make a decision about their faith. He emphasizes that if they believe in the Lord and Jesus Christ as the Savior, they must follow Him wholeheartedly and not serve two masters. The sermon concludes with a reminder that everyone is a sinner and needs to be saved from their sins in order to be in the presence of God.
Enoch Walked With God
By Leonard Ravenhill7450:19Walking With GodEnochFaithHEB 11:5Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of faith through the example of Enoch, who walked with God for 300 years and pleased Him. He highlights that faith is the key to pleasing God, as stated in Hebrews 11, and that Enoch's life exemplifies a deep, personal relationship with God amidst a corrupt world. Ravenhill contrasts Enoch's faith and righteousness with the ungodliness surrounding him, illustrating that true worship leads to a life of obedience and testimony. He urges believers to prioritize their walk with God over mere church activities, stressing that genuine faith requires sacrifice and commitment. Ultimately, Enoch's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that honors God in every circumstance.
Are You Seeking God's Approval or God's Blessing?
By Zac Poonen5159:02Seeking God's ApprovalApprovalLiving a Righteous LifeEPH 2:8HEB 11:5JAS 2:20Zac Poonen emphasizes the distinction of CFC from other churches, highlighting that it was founded to restore God's original standards, particularly in overcoming sin rather than merely seeking blessings. He challenges the congregation to reflect on whether they are pursuing God's approval or just His blessings, urging them to prioritize a life that pleases God over one that seeks material prosperity. Poonen uses the example of Enoch, who walked with God and was taken up to heaven, to illustrate the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. He stresses that true faith is demonstrated through works and that believers should focus on their spiritual growth and readiness for Christ's return. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to follow Jesus and to live a life of righteousness, rather than merely seeking blessings.
Guarding Your Heart's Door
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfareFaithHEB 11:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of guarding our hearts against the influence of the devil, highlighting that many Christians live in misery despite outward appearances of joy. He points out that true happiness comes from a deep faith in God, as demonstrated by Enoch, who pleased God through his faith. Wilkerson warns that many believers are ensnared by Satan, lacking the power to resist his influence, and encourages them to recognize their captivity and seek freedom through a closer walk with God. He reminds us that through Christ, we have been delivered from darkness and can live in the light of His kingdom. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to spiritual growth and reliance on God's presence to overcome the enemy.
(The Supreme Priorities) 6. He Pleased God
By Zac Poonen0Pleasing GodEternal PrioritiesMAT 25:21ROM 12:11CO 9:24PHP 3:14COL 3:232TI 4:7HEB 11:51JN 2:17REV 4:11REV 22:12Zac Poonen emphasizes that the essence of a meaningful life is captured in the simple phrase 'He pleased God,' as exemplified by Enoch in Hebrews 11:5. He argues that earthly achievements and recognition pale in comparison to the eternal value of pleasing God, which should be the supreme priority of every believer. Poonen challenges the audience to reject the allure of worldly treasures and to fully commit to following Christ, even at the cost of personal sacrifice. He paints a vivid picture of the rewards awaiting those who live faithfully for God, contrasting it with the regret of those who prioritize earthly security over divine approval. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to glorifying God, assuring that true fulfillment and eternal joy come from such devotion.
The Secret of Abiding Peace, Abounding Joy, and Abundant Victory in War Times and at All Times.
By R.A. Torrey0Walking With GodSpiritual CompanionshipGEN 5:24PSA 16:11ISA 41:10AMO 3:3JHN 14:16JHN 14:21JHN 14:232CO 3:18HEB 9:22HEB 11:5R.A. Torrey emphasizes the profound significance of walking with God, as exemplified by Enoch, who enjoyed a unique relationship with the Divine that led to his being taken by God. This walk brings abiding peace, abounding joy, and abundant victory, regardless of life's challenges. Torrey outlines the essence of this walk as living in conscious communion with God, which results in joy, security, spiritual enlightenment, purity, beauty of character, usefulness, and ultimately, pleasing God. He encourages believers to trust in Christ's atoning blood, obey God's commands, and cultivate an awareness of His presence to experience this transformative relationship. The sermon concludes with the invitation to walk with God, promising eternal companionship for those who do.
He Pleased God
By David Wilkerson0FaithIntimacy With GodGEN 5:24PSA 25:14JHN 15:15ROM 8:12CO 5:8PHP 3:20COL 1:10HEB 11:5JAS 4:81JN 1:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound relationship Enoch had with God, highlighting that Enoch's faith and intimate communion with the Lord were the reasons for his translation to glory. Enoch's life exemplified a deep, pleasing connection with God, which was not marked by miracles or grand achievements but by a simple yet powerful act of walking with God for 300 years. This close fellowship was so significant that God chose to bring Enoch home, illustrating the importance of faith and intimacy in our relationship with the Lord.
Enoch Pleased God
By Zac Poonen0Pleasing GodEternal RewardsMAT 25:21HEB 11:51JN 2:17REV 4:11REV 22:12Zac Poonen emphasizes that Enoch's life is summed up in the phrase 'He pleased God,' highlighting that earthly achievements and recognition are insignificant compared to the eternal value of pleasing God. He warns against the deceitfulness of self-life and the temptation to seek worldly treasures, urging believers to fully commit to following Christ, even at the cost of earthly security. Poonen encourages a perspective shift, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from laying down our lives for Jesus and that eternal rewards await those who remain faithful. He paints a vivid picture of the day when believers will stand before God, receiving recognition for their faithfulness, and challenges listeners to evaluate their priorities in light of eternity. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to glorifying God above all else.
Steadfastness in Conduct
By Duncan Campbell0SteadfastnessConduct in FaithJOB 16:19PRO 24:21HEB 11:5HEB 13:20Duncan Campbell emphasizes the importance of steadfastness in conduct, urging believers to live in a way that reflects their faith and pleases God. He draws on biblical examples such as Enoch, Elisha, and Barnabas to illustrate how consistent and godly conduct can influence others and glorify God. Campbell warns against the dangers of neglecting prayer and the need for a disciplined life that seeks God's presence, as our actions serve as a testimony to the world. He concludes that true discipleship involves imitating Christ and living out our faith in practical ways, as our conduct can either draw others to God or lead them astray.
The Walk of Faith
By A.W. Tozer0Preparation for Christ's ReturnFaithGEN 5:24HEB 11:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the spiritual lessons from Enoch's life, illustrating how he maintained a walk of faith and fellowship with God despite living in a corrupt society. Enoch's ability to resist temptation serves as an example for Christians today, reminding us that we can also walk with God in faith amidst our own challenges. Tozer encourages believers to reflect on the quality of their faith, as it will determine their readiness for Christ's return. He reassures us that, like Enoch, we can trust in God's unchanging nature and the promise of Jesus' second coming. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a bold and unwavering faith in our daily lives.
Enoch Escaped Death
By A.W. Tozer0RaptureFaithGEN 5:24MAT 24:42JHN 14:2ROM 1:171CO 15:51EPH 2:81TH 4:16HEB 11:52PE 3:9REV 3:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of Enoch's life as a model for believers in today's troubled times, illustrating that Enoch's faith led to his translation into God's presence, allowing him to escape death. This serves as a powerful reminder for Christians to heed the Word of God and live faithfully, as Enoch's experience foreshadows the future rapture of the Church. Tozer suggests that Enoch's departure may have puzzled those around him, highlighting the contrast between a faithful walk with God and the struggles of the world.
The Secret of Abiding Peace
By R.A. Torrey0Walking With GodAbiding PeaceGEN 5:24PSA 16:11ISA 41:10AMO 3:3JHN 14:16JHN 14:21JHN 14:232CO 3:18HEB 9:22HEB 11:5R.A. Torrey emphasizes the profound significance of walking with God, as exemplified by Enoch, who experienced abiding peace, joy, and victory through his close relationship with the Lord. Torrey outlines the results of such a walk, including joy, security, spiritual enlightenment, purity, beauty of character, usefulness, and ultimately pleasing God. He stresses that to walk with God, one must trust in Christ's atoning blood, obey God's commands, and cultivate a constant awareness of His presence. The sermon encourages believers to embrace this divine companionship, promising that those who walk with God will enjoy eternal fellowship with Him. Torrey's message serves as a call to deepen one's relationship with God for a fulfilling spiritual life.
Section I. It Is Desirable to Be Holy
By Jesse T. Peck0LEV 11:44JOB 1:1EZK 36:25LUK 1:62CO 3:18PHP 1:211TH 5:23HEB 11:5JAS 2:23Jesse T. Peck preaches about the possibility and desirability of achieving holiness in the sight of God. He emphasizes that God's command to be holy is achievable, as evidenced by the lives of biblical figures like Enoch, Abraham, Job, and Paul, who walked with God, exhibited faith, and maintained blameless lives. The divine promises of cleansing and sanctification, along with the prayers for sanctification found in the Bible, further support the belief that it is possible for believers to attain complete holiness through the power of God's grace.
Walking Heavenward
By H.J. Vine0ISA 40:31EPH 5:15COL 2:6HEB 11:51JN 2:61JN 2:9H.J. Vine preaches about the exemplary walk of Enoch, who pleased God and was taken by Him without experiencing death, highlighting the importance of walking in wisdom's ways well-pleasing to God. The sermon draws parallels between Enoch's walk with God and the heavenly walk of believers today, contrasting those who walk in darkness and those who walk in the light of Christ's atoning blood. The message emphasizes the need for consistency in our walk with God, relying on His strength to overcome difficulties and trials, and the joy of walking in truth and love as children of God.
I Have Loved Thee . . . I Come Quickly
By H.J. Vine0HEB 11:51JN 4:19REV 3:9REV 3:19H.J. Vine preaches on the contrasting conditions of the saints in Philadelphia and Laodicea as depicted in Revelation 3:9-11. The assembly in Philadelphia, characterized by their love for the brethren and faithful endurance, is encouraged by the promise of Christ's quick return and the assurance of an open door no one can shut. In contrast, the Laodiceans are rebuked for their lukewarmness, self-sufficiency, and spiritual poverty, yet are offered the opportunity for repentance and intimate communion with Christ.
The Binding Power of Divine Love
By Clement of Rome0PSA 32:11CO 13:4EPH 1:4HEB 11:51PE 4:81JN 5:3Clement of Rome emphasizes the profound impact of divine love in keeping God's commandments, highlighting its unmatched power to unite us with God, forgive sins, and endure all things patiently. Love, beyond human expression, sanctifies God's chosen ones and is essential for pleasing Him. Those perfected in love throughout generations dwell among the saints and will be revealed in Christ's kingdom. By seeking God's mercy, we can possess a love that transcends human biases and reproach, leading to harmony, obedience, and the remission of sins.
January 18. 1678. an Answer to an Objection Against the Translated State.
By Jane Lead0DAN 7:27MAT 25:1LUK 12:371CO 15:521CO 15:541TH 4:16HEB 11:52PE 3:101JN 3:2REV 20:4Jane Lead preaches about the deep and mysterious revelation she has received regarding the transformation and translation of believers before Christ's final coming and judgment. She emphasizes the need for a pure and spotless life, separated from the corrupt earthly ways, in preparation for the high coelestiality and communion with the sacred Trinity. Lead discusses the threefold coming of Christ, highlighting the importance of faith, purity, and readiness for the ultimate redemption and transmutation of believers into immortal beings. She urges believers to be vigilant, watchful, and fully prepared for the imminent return of the Lord, encouraging a life of introversion and separation from the worldly distractions.
Walking With God
By J.C. Philpot0GEN 5:22ISA 41:8AMO 3:3ROM 12:92CO 6:142CO 6:16GAL 5:22PHP 2:5HEB 11:5JAS 4:41JN 2:15J.C. Philpot delves into the concept of walking with God, emphasizing the necessity of agreement between man and God for such a relationship to exist. He explores the impossibility of God and man walking together without alignment in love, hatred, and desires. Philpot highlights the need for man to adopt God's perspective on sin and righteousness, to mirror His affections and aversions, and to cultivate a heart that resonates with God's own. Through examples like Enoch, Abraham, and the Corinthian believers, he illustrates that agreement with God leads to a harmonious walk with Him, where His presence dwells within and they journey together in unity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
By faith Enoch was translated - It is said, in Gen 5:24, that Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him. Here the apostle explains what God's taking him means, by saying that he was translated that he should not see death; from which we learn that he did not die, and that God took him to a state of blessedness without obliging him to pass through death. See his history explained at large in the above place, in Gen 5:22-24.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Faith was the ground of his pleasing God; and his pleasing God was the ground of his translation. translated-- (Gen 5:22, Gen 5:24). Implying a sudden removal (the same Greek as in Gal 1:6) from mortality without death to immortality: such a CHANGE as shall pass over the living at Christ's coming (Co1 15:51-52). had this testimony--namely of Scripture; the Greek perfect implies that this testimony continues still: "he has been testified of." pleased God--The Scripture testimony virtually expresses that he pleased God, namely, "Enoch walked with God." The Septuagint translates the Hebrew for "walked with God," Gen 6:9, pleased God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But without faith it is impossible to please him,.... Or do things well pleasing in his sight; or any of the duties of religion, in an acceptable way; as prayer, praise, attendance on the word and ordinances, or any good works whatever; because such are without Christ, and without his Spirit; and have neither right principles, nor right ends: for this is not to be understood of the persons of God's elect, as considered in Christ; in whom they are well pleasing to him before faith; being loved by him with an everlasting love; and chosen in Christ, before the foundation of the world; See Gill on Rom 8:8. for he that cometh to God; to the throne of, his grace, to pray unto him, to implore his grace and mercy, help and assistance; to the house of God, to worship, and serve him, and in order to enjoy his presence, and have communion with him; which coming ought to be spiritual and with the heart; and supposes spiritual life; and must be through Christ, and by faith: wherefore such a comer to God, must believe that he is; or exists, as the Arabic version; and he must not barely believe his existence, but that, as it is revealed in the word: he must believe in the three Persons in the Godhead; that the first Person is the Father of Christ; that the second Person is both the Son of God, and Mediator; and that the third Person is the Spirit of them both, and the applier of all grace; for God the Father is to be approached unto, through Christ the Mediator, by the guidance and assistance of the Spirit: and he must believe in the perfections of God; that he is omniscient, and knows his person and wants; is omnipotent, and can do for him, beyond his thoughts and petitions; is all sufficient, and that his grace is sufficient for him; that he is immutable, in his purposes and covenant; that he is true and faithful to his promises; and is the God of grace, love, and mercy: and he must believe in him, not only as the God of nature and providence, but as his covenant God and Father in Christ: and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him; who are such, as are first sought out by him; and who seek him in Christ, where he is only to be found; and that with their whole hearts, and above all things else: and, of such, God is a rewarder, in a way of grace; with himself, who is their exceeding great reward; and with his Son, and all things with him; with more grace; and, at last, with eternal glory, the reward of the inheritance.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:5 Enoch was taken up to heaven and thus did not face a normal death (see Gen 5:21-24). • “he disappeared, because God took him”: Gen 5:24.