Untitled Sermon (3)

Faith That Moves Mountains

Bible Passage: Heb 11:1-40

Summary: Hebrews 11, often called the 'Hall of Faith,' provides a rich tapestry of biblical heroes who exemplified faith in God’s promises, demonstrating that faith is not only trust but also action based on that trust.

Application: This passage encourages believers to reflect on their own faith journeys, to see how trust in God’s promises can face and overcome life’s challenges, and to inspire one another in community to live out our faith boldly.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen, showing that true faith requires both belief and action, encouraging listeners to step out in faith in their own lives.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout Scripture, Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the promises of God, the very object of our faith; Hebrews 11 presents figures who looked forward to God's promise, which is fully realized in Christ.

Big Idea: Faith in God empowers us to live courageously in uncertainty, grounded in the assurance of His promises as exemplified in the lives of biblical heroes.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon, explore the various figures mentioned in Hebrews 11 and their specific contexts to highlight their unique acts of faith. Consider using Logos to study the historical and cultural backgrounds of these figures, and examine the Greek terms used for faith to enrich your understanding of the text. Additionally, look into other passages in the New Testament that discuss faith to show its centrality in the believer's life.

1. Faith's Firm Foundation

Hebrews 11:1-6

You could explore how faith is foundational and not just a belief but an assurance and certainty in what we do not see, as exemplified by Abel and Enoch. This encourages believers to trust in God's promises despite uncertainties, highlighting that faith pleases God. The Christocentric focus is on Jesus as the ultimate object of faith, urging us to live pleasing lives for Him.

2. Faith in Action

Hebrews 11:7-12

Perhaps share how Noah and Abraham acted upon God's promises, demonstrating that faith often requires obedience and action. This can inspire listeners to act boldly in their own faith journeys, trusting God's guidance without full understanding. Jesus' fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham is crucial here, showing God's faithfulness across generations.

3. Faith's Forward Focus

Hebrews 11:13-16

Maybe highlight how the patriarchs lived as strangers on earth, demonstrating that faith involves trusting in promises even when fulfillment seems distant. This passage suggests living with an eternal perspective, longing for a heavenly country, as Christ secures for us an eternal home. It challenges believers to see beyond the present to God's eternal promises.

4. Faith Through Trials

Hebrews 11:17-31

You could discuss the trials and triumphs of figures like Abraham, Moses, and Rahab, emphasizing how faith can prevail amidst trials and seemingly impossible situations. This encourages believers to trust God during life's challenges, knowing that faith connects us to His redemptive plan. Christ is the ultimate demonstration of faith through sacrifice, guiding us in perseverance.

5. Faith’s Courageous Commitment

Hebrews 11:32-40

Perhaps conclude with the heroes who endured through persecution and hardship, demonstrating that faith can lead us to courage in the face of opposition. Remind the listeners of the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who endured the cross. This point encourages believers to persist in their faith journey, motivated by the perfecter of faith, Jesus.