Chapter Summary

Superiority of the way of faith. Instances of faith.

Discussion Questions for Hebrews, Chapter 11

1. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. How do you personally understand and experience this definition of faith in your own life?
2. The chapter begins by stating that by faith, we understand that the universe was created by the word of God (Hebrews 11:3). How does the creation account in Genesis inform our understanding of God's power and sovereignty, and how does it inspire faith in His promises?
3. Hebrews 11 highlights the faith of individuals such as Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Sarah. What common threads or characteristics do you notice among these examples of faith, and how can we apply their faithfulness to our own lives?
4. Reflecting on Hebrews 11:6, which states that without faith it is impossible to please God, how does faith serve as the foundation of our relationship with God and our obedience to His will?
5. Hebrews 11:8-19 recounts Abraham and Sarah's journey of faith, from their obedience to God's call to the birth of Isaac. How does their story illustrate the challenges and rewards of trusting in God's promises, even when they seem impossible?
6. Hebrews 11:24-27 describes Moses' choice to identify with God's people and endure suffering rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. How does Moses' example challenge us to prioritize our allegiance to God and His kingdom over temporary worldly comforts?
7. The chapter lists various instances of triumph through faith, including victories over enemies, deliverance from danger, and miraculous provisions (Hebrews 11:32-34). How do these examples of faith inspire us to trust God's provision and protection in our own lives?
8. Hebrews 11:35-38 describes believers who endured suffering, persecution, and martyrdom because of their faith. How does their example of steadfastness in the face of adversity encourage us to persevere in our own faith journey, even in times of trial?
9. Reflecting on Hebrews 11:39-40, which speaks of Old Testament heroes of faith who did not receive what was promised, how does their story point to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ, and how does it inform our perspective on waiting and hoping in God's timing?
10. The chapter concludes by affirming that these heroes of faith, though commended for their faith, did not receive the full fulfillment of God's promises in their lifetime, as God had something better planned for us (Hebrews 11:39-40). How does this realization shape our understanding of the interconnectedness of the Old and New Testaments and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan throughout history?

Key Words/Phrase

Faith, v. 1.

Characters

God, Christ, Abel, Cain, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sara, Joseph, Moses, Pharaoh's daughter, Rahab, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthae, David, Samuel.

Strong Verse(s)

1, 6.