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Sermon Introduction

After giving the Jewish believers a dire warning, all who continue to sin willfully will experience the fiery judgment of God. For those who go on sinning on purpose is like insulting the Son of God. He explained that the fiery judgment of God would be severe and eternal. The author also reminded them of their past faithfulness and that they should not let go of their confidence in Christ. He will then encourage them to live by faith and not to shrink back.

Dr. Ed Pilapil Jr.
Senior Pastor

Hebrews 11:1-3 NASB

1 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.

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.

Notes

After giving the Jewish believers a dire warning, all who continue to sin willfully will experience the fiery judgment of God. For those who go on sinning on purpose is like insulting the Son of God. He explained that the fiery judgment of God would be severe and eternal. The author also reminded them of their past faithfulness and that they should not let go of their confidence in Christ. He will then encourage them to live by faith and not to shrink back.

1. The author defined faith as the certainty or substance of things hoped. What is hoped for, in the context, is related to the heavenly promises. He mentioned that faith is sure about the promises the believers do not see. (11:1).

2. The author stated that the OT heroes gained approval or a good reputation because of their faith. He would cite several OT characters like Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, David, and Samuel

   (11:2).

3. The author declared that by faith, believers understand that God's word created the world. The invisible, who is God, made the visible realm, the physical world (11:3). Thus, living by faith is being absolutely sure of the invisible God and His promises in Christ.

Application

1. Trust in the certainty of the promises in Christ as revealed in Scripture. Do not misapply the verse by using it for self-centered desires. Thus, do not believe in prosperity preachers. True faith is applied in the promises in Christ alone.

2. Let us build our reputation in God's sight like the OT heroes of faith. The focus of the OT heroes was God, not earthly pursuits. Their objective was to please God, not people. Thus, we should focus on God and His plan rather than focusing on worldly reputation.

3. Believe that God's word created the world. Understand that the invisible, God and His word, created the visible, the earth we live in. Let us keep believing and let us keep proclaiming what we believe. Christ suffered, died, and resurrected, and that people should repent for the forgiveness of sin.

Discussion / Reflection

1. What is the definition of faith according to the author?

2. How did the people of old gain a good reputation?

3. How was the world created? Why do you believe that?