The Treasures of HebrewsSample

“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 ESV)

In this well-known chapter, the writer explains how faith works. A righteous person will live by faith. They will be saved. But how?

The answer is wide-ranging. In response to the hypothetical question, 'How then?', the writer goes to great lengths to highlight the full scope of the Old Testament. Consider the faith of Abel, Enoch, and Abraham. ‘How, then?’ Read and hear their stories. Abraham left his home and family to live in a city with foundations. Moses chose to suffer alongside the people of God. He chose a difficult life with God over a life of luxury and corruption in Pharaoh's court. Rahab hid the spies and thus saved herself from destruction.

This is faith. Faith that knows, but does not see. The fulfilment of the promises given to them was still far in the future. But they were given these promises, and they believed in them. But now, a much better time has come. This is how the writer ends the chapter.

Are you aware of the privileges of this age? You no longer have to wonder whether a Saviour will come. He is here. We don't have to wonder how our sins can be forgiven because Jesus came to make the ultimate sacrifice by giving His life. God's promises are true! So lay aside the burden of sin and run the race of faith.