Hebrews 11:1-7

¹ “Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen. ² For by it the people of old gained approval.³ By faith we understand that the world has been created by the word of God so that what is seen has not been made out of things that are visible. ⁴ By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he was attested to be righteous, God testifying about his gifts, and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks. ⁵ By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death; and he was not found because God took him up; for before he was taken up, he was attested to have been pleasing to God. ⁶ And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for the one who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him. ⁷ By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.”

Verse 1: Faith is described as having confidence in the things we hope for and assurance in the things we cannot see. It is a trust and belief in the promises of God, even when we cannot physically see the fulfillment of those promises. The author is highlighting faith because it stands as a contrast to the law. The law is about works. However, the New Covenant is about faith in Jesus.

Verse 2: The author of Hebrews highlights that the people of old, the ancients, were commended for their faith. They trusted in God and His promises, and their faith was recognized and honored. This demonstrates that God has always wanted his people to relate to him on the basis of faith.

Verse 3: The author emphasizes that it is through faith that we understand that God created the universe by His command. The visible world we see was brought into existence by the invisible power and authority of God.

Verse 4: The author highlights the faith of Abel, who offered a better sacrifice to God than his brother Cain. Abel’s faith and righteousness were recognized by God, and even though he is no longer alive, his faith continues to speak and inspire others.

Verse 5: Enoch’s faith pleased God to such an extent that he was taken from this life without experiencing death. His faith and pleasing relationship with God were evident, and he serves as an example of faithfulness.

Verse 6: The author emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God. Without faith, it is impossible to have a genuine relationship with him. Believing in God’s existence and trusting in His promises are essential for those who seek him.

Verse 7: Noah’s faith is highlighted as he obeyed God’s warning about the coming flood and built an ark to save his family. His faith in God’s word and his obedience condemned the world’s unbelief. Noah’s faith made him an heir of righteousness, demonstrating the importance of faith in God’s redemptive plan.