Foreword
We cannot have hope by just looking at the current reality. However, when we listen to and believein God’s Word, we can have hope. Faith comes from hearing the Word of Christ (Rom 10:17).
If we do not read, see, or hear God’s Word, we cannot have faith. People believe in the Jesus they’ve heard and learned about, the Jesus they’ve created in their own minds. But they don’t believe in the Bible, which conveys God’s heart, thoughts, and will. When we listen to God’s word, we come to believe, and we begin to hope for what seems hopeless.
Even though we are created beings—weak, powerless, and without ability—if we rely on the Word of God, it is not I who lives, but the Word of Christ within us, which displays the power and authority of creation.
In Hebrews chapter 11, we see the forefathers of faith, from Abel to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. What are they telling us? “I held onto my faith and hope. So do not doubt, and believe like I did.” They are testifying to the results of their faith. The Bible is not just an abstract concept but a reality, the truth. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Noah did not experience the judgment of the flood. But when he heard that all would be judged according to the Word, he believed and obeyed, building the ark. By God’s power, he prepared the ark and saved his household, by which he was able to condemn the world (Heb 11:7).
September 26, 2010 | Sunday Worship Service
“This Is Faith” (Hebrews 11:1-2)