The Hall of Faith
Hebrews 11
When you are feeling weak, read Hebrews chapter 11. Bible publication editors have given it a variety of names such as “The Triumph of Faith” and “Faith in Action” because it includes 39 references to what or why faith activates and how faith accomplishes God’s will. Sixteen of those examples involve Old Testament people who trusted God as revealed by their actions and/or words, even when the measurable material data indicated they should not!
Where to begin? Let’s begin where the chapter begins, with the definition of faith: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1, NASB)
The word “faith” in the Greek language originates from a word indicating persuasion. But this “faith” is not initiated by an intellectual argument. Instead, it is a divinely given confidence that often stands in the face of – and opposes — what the eyes see and reason discerns. (I like to call that “sticking it to the devil” who seems to be oriented around what is seen, felt, and desired by the old sinful, selfish, self).
Almost all our confirmands in my 30 years have memorized Ephesians 2:8-10. Many people know verses 8 and 9: “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith; that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one should boast.” The Gospel of Luke teaches that faith is beyond intellect – “beyond” in the sense that it is above it, better than reason, and often incongruent with apparent reason. You know, sticks don’t divide a Sea, virgins do not conceive children, and a cross does not impale sin.
So what can “persuade” when appearances argue against faith and support a logic that opposes it? Consider the most important aspect of faith: trusting God for His forgiveness. What factors “persuade” us to trust Him. One? A guilt that overwhelms logic (“I could never pay for all of this myself”). Another? The promises kept which move our hearts to trust that God’s promises are real and trust–worthy! And, finally, it’s the work of God the Holy Spirit, through the Word, which like a conception of new life, passively creates a divine faith in our divine and human God-Redeemer, Jesus.
Yes, the incarnation is another one of those truths that defies the brain but kindles the soul: “the Word became flesh… For God so loved that He gave.…” God’s love breaks through to a hopeless heart! He draws us to Himself.
Children have little to do with their conception, but their parents sure do! “Our Father Who art in heaven…” has had this passion from eternity to create and redeem us and then re-create us through the gift of faith. (Ephesians 2:10)
Prayer:Our Father Who art in heaven, from Your eternal love You have conceived me and my faith. Praise!
Thank You for this gift of faith which surpasses understanding and enabled me to become Your child.
May I stand under the grace of Jesus, my Savior, confident now in Your gift of faith, and confident at Your return.
In Your Name, Amen.
