Living by Faith: Exploring Hebrews Chapter 11 - Part 2

Pastor Martin Saine continues teach through Hebrews 11.
By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.
By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.

The passage provided discusses the theme of faith as exemplified by various figures from biblical narratives, focusing primarily on Noah and Abraham. It begins with Hebrews 11:7, highlighting Noah's faith in building the ark and his obedience to God's command amid a corrupt world. The narrative then shifts to 1 Peter 3:18-20, emphasizing Christ's redemptive work and its connection to the story of Noah, drawing parallels between the ark and baptism.

Moving on to 2 Peter 2:1-5, the passage warns against false prophets and emphasizes God's judgment on the ungodly, contrasting it with the salvation of Noah and his family. This is followed by a discussion on the relationship between faith and works, citing James 2:14-20, and emphasizing the importance of active faith.

The passage also includes references to Ezekiel 14:12-23, which underscores the personal nature of faith and its implications for individuals amidst judgment. It concludes with a warning about the coming judgment, drawing parallels between the days of Noah and the second coming of Christ as described in Matthew 24.

Transitioning to Abraham's story, the passage highlights his faith in leaving his homeland and dwelling as a foreigner in the promised land, trusting in God's promises despite not seeing their fulfillment in his lifetime. It concludes with a reflection on the faith of Abraham and Sarah, emphasizing their trust in God's promise of descendants despite their old age.

Throughout the passage, there is an overarching theme of faith as a personal and active trust in God's promises, demonstrated through obedience, endurance, and reliance on divine providence. It encourages believers to emulate the faith of these biblical figures as they await the fulfillment of God's promises, eagerly anticipating the return of Christ and the realization of heavenly citizenship