The 11th chapter of Hebrews is known as the "Hall of Faith". This chapter opens with a verse that is one of the most quoted in Scripture. "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." The NIV renders this, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." I particularly like the Amplified Bible, "Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses]."
I like the bracketed comment at the end. I want to have faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses. Just like the people listed in this Hall of Faith.
Seventeen times the phrase "By faith..." is used to describe people or events. The writer tells us that "Without faith it is impossible to please God...and that He rewards those who seek Him." He goes on to tell in Hebrews 11:32-38 how some conquered kingdoms, some were tortured; some enforced justice, some were mocked and flogged; some obtained promises, some were in chains and imprisoned; some stopped the mouths of lion, some were stoned; some quenched the power of fire, some were sawed in two; some escaped the sword, some were killed with the sword.
Often we Christians view those who experience the "good" half of the comparison to have been rewarded for seeking God and those who experienced the "bad" half of the comparison NOT to be rewarded by God. Yet we are told they were ALL commended for their faith - even though they did not receive what had been promised. NONE of them received what had been promised.
But that promise has now been fulfilled. "Therefore...Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith..." Hebrews 12:2
Why do we think that God's reward is earthly satisfaction in life with ease and health and plenty? If we have met Jesus, if we have been called to Him we have the greatest reward coming; we have received the promise!
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