True Faith
Introduction
The book of Hebrews was originally written to 1st century Jewish Christians who were in danger of drifting away from Christ. They were tempted to go back to their familiar Jewish practices. So the writer tells them about the superiority of Jesus and the superiority of the priesthood he exercises.
Now in this last section of Hebrews Christians are urged to live in obedience to God’s Word; that is, to live by faith.
Reflect
- Verse 1 is a description of what faith does and how it works. However ‘faith’ by itself is nothing; faith is only as good as its object. What is the object of our faith?
- Think of something that you confidently hope for as a Christian. What assurance do you have that this will happen? Why?
- How is the description of faith in verse 1 evident in our understanding of creation? (v 3)
Having true faith means we will confidently obey God’s Word no matter what our circumstances and no matter what consequences may result. It is being sure that God will keep His promises.
Reflect
- How did Abraham demonstrate that he had true faith (v 8)?
- Why was Abraham able to live in tents ‘like a stranger in a foreign country’? (v 9,10)
- Why do you think that God caused Isaac to be conceived by a couple who were well past child–bearing age? How many other amazing/miraculous births can you think of that are recorded in the Bible?
Having true faith means we will wait for God to fulfil his promises in his good time. Abraham was future focussed.
Reflect
- What stands out to you most in these verses about Abraham’s faith?
Having true faith means we will obey God even when we don’t fully understand His purposes.
Something to think about
Skim read through the rest of Hebrews 11. Think about the person or situation that resonates the most with you. Perhaps you could share your thoughts with a friend today.
Something to sing about
By Faith and See the Man are just two of many songs that reflect the true faith we see in Hebrews 11.