Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen.”
I actually enjoy walking through a cemetery and looking at the head markers. No, I am not morbid, but it is interesting to reflect on what you find out about the lives of those who have gone before us. The most fascinating ones are the really old dates (especially any in the 17 or 1800’s) but the brief description of what their life stood for is always interesting to reflect on.
This Sunday we are turning to one of the final chapters in our study “Knowing God,” and we will for the next three weekends look carefully at the last three chapters of Hebrews. Technically speaking, this section begins with Hebrews 10:19 and goes through the final thoughts in chapter 13. (Please note, that when the Bible was written it did not have chapters and verses divided up like we have today, therefore sometimes chapters don’t always begin a new train of thought!).
Hebrews 11 is a standout chapter in all of the Bible. It is often referred to as the “Heros of the Faith” or the “cemetery of the Biblical Hall of Fame” chapter. It is like a very fast summary of the stories of major characters from the Old Testament. When this was written to a Jewish audience, the characters and their lives were quickly recognized. I have always loved this chapter because of how it seems to tie all the old stories in one beautiful poetic way. It is a little like walking through a cemetery and getting a glimpse on the headstone of what their life stood for. Every one of the characters listed begins with the phrase… “By faith they…” But what is most fascinating is that each of the “Heros” are actually such greatly flawed people. So… if they are so flawed, why are they in the Cemetery Hall of Fame? And in the end, what does it mean to me and to you?
This is where we are going for the next three Sunday’s. Read ahead from Hebrews 10:19 all the way to the end of the book in chapter 13. This week especially concentrate on Hebrews chapter 11. Ask yourself this question in preparation…
“What are the characteristics of faith that helped these individuals reach the Biblical Hall of Fame as a Hero of our Faith?” Then ask this important question…
“How does this help shape my life of faith?
See you Sunday morning as we walk through this Biblical Cemetery Hall of Fame.
I will see you this Sunday!
