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 (Philemon & Hebrews)
16: Examples of Faith (1) (Heb 11:1-16)

16: Examples of Faith (1) (Heb 11:1-16)

The Basics

Setting

We learned in the last study the necessity of persisting in our faith and the consequences for failing to do so. The passage ended with the contrast between those who draw back to perdition and those who live by faith to salvation. The subject of faith now leads us to the key chapter in the Bible on faith. Through teachings and historical examples, the author shows us why and how faith is central to the lives of believers.

Key Verse

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (11:6).

Observation

Outline

(11:1-3)

(11:4)

(11:5)

(11:6)

(11:7)

(11:8-12)

(8-10)

(11-12)

(11:13-16)

Key Words/Phrases

General Analysis

1.   Write down the action verbs in this passage that resulted from faith.

Segment Analysis

11:1-3

1a.        What kind of situations call for faith?

1b.        Many, if not all, of the examples of faith cited in the passage have to do with “things not seen.” Go through the passage and record these.

2.         What can we gain by faith, according to these verses?

2a.        Verse 1

2b.        Verse 2

2c.        Verse 3

3.         How is verse 3 an application and example of faith?

11:4

4.         Why was Abel’s sacrifice more excellent than Cain’s?

5.         What did Abel receive through his sacrifice? Relate this to verse 2.

11:5-6

6.         Enoch pleased God by faith. What did Enoch do that reflected faith in God (Gen -24)?

7.         What does faith entail (6)?

8.         Why is faith so important in our relationship with God?

9.         Based on these two verses (5-6), how should you live to show faith in God?

11:7

10.        Does your life demonstrate the same godly fear as Noah’s did?

11.        What is “the righteousness which is according to faith” (7; cf. ; 11:4)?

11:8-12

12.        What was remarkable about Abraham’s decision to leave his homeland (8)?

13a.      What kind of lifestyle did Abraham lead in the promised land?

13b.      Why did he choose such a lifestyle?

14.        On what basis can you be unwavering, as Abraham was, in the face of the impossible?

11:13-16

15a.      What promises were the faithful looking forward to?

15b.      How did they show it?

16.        In your life, how can you live as strangers and pilgrims?

17.        What does it mean that God was not ashamed to be called their God? Do you make God feel unashamed of you?

Final Thoughts

18.        What makes true faith different from “blind faith”? Suppose someone is convinced that he will be instantly rich through some windfall, is such belief “being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”? On what basis is faith built?

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