Chapter 11 Summary
- This chapter is one of the most well-known in the Bible. It is a chapter that is commonly called “The Hall of Faith.”
- The Christians that the writer is addressing were starting to lack and waver in their faith. They were developing hearts of unbelief (Hebrews 3:12). They were in danger of missing their spiritual rest (Hebrews 4:11). To help them increase in their faith, the writer provides numerous examples of servants of God who, in times past, pleased God based on faith (not by keeping the Old Law).
- In Hebrews 11:1, he defines faith. In Hebrews 11:2, he says that by faith, “men of old gained approval.” In Hebrews 11:6, he emphasizes how “without faith, it is impossible to please Him.”
- Some of the “men of old” who gain God’s approval by faith include Noah (Hebrews 11:7), Abraham (Hebrews 11:8-10), Sarah (Hebrews 11:11), Jacob (Hebrews 11:21), Joseph (Hebrews 11:22), Moses (Hebrews 11:23-28), and Rahab (Hebrews 11:31). Notice how, in each example, we learn that biblical faith is belief accompanied by action. Each person did something to demonstrate their belief and trust in God!
- The people mentioned in this chapter were not “super Christians.” They were all ordinary people who loved God and pleased him by faith. We can do the same!
Chapter 11 Questions
- What is faith (Hebrews 11:1)? Who were the “men of old” and what did they gain by having faith (Hebrews 11:2)? Also, what is impossible to do without faith (Hebrews 11:6)?
- List some of the “heroes of faith” mentioned in this chapter. What thing did they do by faith?
- In what way(s) should a chapter like this encourage us? Are there any characters mentioned who give you encouragement by their faith? Who and why?
