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?
