Hebrews 11 Study Notes
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11:1-40 This chapter compares the faith of the OT fathers with the faith exercised by Christian believers. Faith is defined as the reality of what is hoped for and the proof of what is not seen. The Greek word for “reality” is hupostasis. It has been used previously to describe the relationship of Christ to God (1:3) and the firm confidence that believers possess (3:14). Faith is not fleeting but substantial enough to generate confidence. The Greek word for “proof” indicates an inner conviction that is not based on visible matters. To please God requires faith. One must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. He is there and he responds.
Divine approval is the primary consequence of faith. Other results of faith are: (1) the declaration of righteousness; (2) the ability to look forward to the heavenly city of God; (3) the recognition that sin is a short-lived pleasure; (4) the ability to understand that faith is possible only because God is faithful; (5) the ability to accomplish great things in the world; and (6) the ability to see that even when believers are persecuted and murdered, beyond this world is a better resurrection.
pistis
| Greek pronunciation | [PIS tis] |
| CSB translation | faith |
| Uses in Hebrews | 32 (24 in Heb 11) |
| Uses in the NT | 243 |
| Focus passage | Hebrews 11:6 |
Pistis carries a spectrum of meaning in the NT. It can refer to something completely trustworthy. Christ’s resurrection is the proof (i.e., trustworthy evidence) that God will one day judge the world (Ac 17:31). Pistis may also refer to a pledge (1Tm 5:12). It sometimes means the state of being faithful or trustworthy. God’s faithfulness ensures he will fulfill his promises (Rm 3:3). Pistis may express belief with complete trust. The NT refers to the faith of OT characters (Rm 4:9,11-13,16; Heb 11:4-33,39) and of Christians (Heb 6:1; 10:39). In the Gospels, faith is often expressed as reliance on the Lord’s power over nature, illness, and spiritual powers (Mt 8:10; Mk 2:5; Lk 8:25). Christian piety involves faith accompanied by works (Jms 2:14,17, etc.). Finally, pistis may refer to the doctrine one believes. Christians should contend for the faith (i.e., the body of apostolic doctrine) delivered to them (Jd 3,20).
Throughout the chapter, the author provided examples of people in the OT who exercised faith. He focused most heavily on Abraham and Moses. To complete the list with a crescendo (vv. 32-40), he recounted an inspiring litany of the fruit of faith displayed in the virtuous life, faithful death, and anticipated resurrection of numerous OT heroes. Although their faith was approved, they did not receive what God had promised. The purpose of this delay was to ensure that they would not be perfected apart from Jesus Christ.