From the negative example—the wilderness rebellion (Hebrews 3 and 4)—we progress to the positive examples of Hebrews 11. The “Hall of Faith” proves faith’s essential role for pleasing God in all ages (Hebrews 11:6). The chapter begins with two of the themes illustrated by these heroes of faith: “assurance” in “things not seen.”
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation (Hebrews 11:1-2).
Though not stated explicitly, another theme emerges due to the very nature of faith: active obedience. Despite things unseen, faith is so sure that it takes the step God commands. Notice the frequency with which “by faith” is followed by a verb.
- By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice… (Hebrews 11:4).
- By faith Enoch was taken up after being commended as having pleased God (Hebrews 11:5). (Interestingly, the commendation in Genesis 5:22, 24 simply says, “Enoch walked with God.”)
- By faith Noah constructed an ark (Hebrews 11:7).
- By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called (Hebrews 11:8).
- By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac (Hebrews 11:17).
- By faith Isaac invoked future blessings (Hebrews 11:20).
- By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph (Hebrews 11:21).
- By faith Moses left Egypt (Hebrews 11:27).
- By faith he kept the Passover and sprinkled the blood (Hebrews 11:28).
- By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land (Hebrews 11:29).