July 8, 2018

Faith and Fulfillment (Hebrews 11:32-40)

Pastor: Ben Muresan Series: Hebrews: Christ Is Superior Topic: Hebrews Scripture: Hebrews 11:32–40

First Scripture Reading: Judges 6:1-32

Second Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 1:1-25

Sermon Text: Hebrews 11:32-40

Hebrews 11 is a selective catalogue of Old Covenant saints who believed the promise that God would send a redeemer to save his people from their sins. This “hall of faith” begins with Abel, who worshipped God by faith. It proceeds through the patriarchs, Israel’s bondage in Egypt, the Exodus, and the conquest of the Promised Land. And now, toward the end, the author of Hebrews seems to become aware that if he proceeds as he has been, he will soon run out of parchment. Instead of describing the specific aspects of each person’s faith, he now provides a general summary in verses 32-35 of the triumphant faith of God’s people as they “conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises,” and accomplished many other great exploits. However, lest we believe that true faith is only evidenced by miraculous conquests and deliverances, the author of Hebrews also reminds us that many faithful Old Covenant saints also suffered. Rather than conquering by faith, it seems like they were conquered by evil. Yet even their suffering was by faith because they persevered, believing that God would fulfill his promises. Though they lost their lives, they did so for the sake of Christ. And in losing their lives, they found eternal life (Matthew 16:25).

other sermons in this series