Untitled Sermon

The way, The truth, and the life.

The Assurance of Faith: Seeing the Unseen

Bible Passage: Heb 11:1–3

Summary: Hebrews 11:1-3 introduces faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen, emphasizing that true faith allows us to understand the world around us through God's perspective.

Application: This sermon can help Christians understand that faith is not just an intellectual assent but a deep-seated trust in God’s promises, encouraging them to persevere through life’s uncertainties by holding on to the convictions that faith brings, especially in challenging times.

Teaching: The message teaches that faith provides a framework through which we can comprehend God's creation and His promises, enabling us to live courageously in a world filled with doubt and confusion.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of Christianity, the theme of faith is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the author and perfecter of our faith, inviting us to see beyond our immediate circumstances to the eternal realities He represents.

Big Idea: True faith perceives and understands God’s promises and creation, enabling believers to navigate life with hope and conviction while trusting in God’s unseen hand.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the connection between faith and the creation narrative in Genesis, utilizing your Logos library. Look into different translations of Hebrews 11:1 and how they handle the Greek phrases for 'assurance' and 'conviction.' Additionally, you might find it beneficial to study how faith functioned in the lives of biblical figures listed in the rest of Hebrews 11, as these examples will anchor your teaching in real-life applications.

1. Assurance Anchors Hopes

Heb 11:1

You could introduce the idea that faith is the assurance and foundation of our hope. Perhaps explain how "assurance" can be understood as the confidence and certainty we possess because of God's promises. This point could encourage the audience to trust in God boldy, despite uncertainties, resembling the kind of faith Christ exemplified during His earthly ministry.

2. Ancestors Affirm Faith

Heb 11:2

Maybe focus on how faith enabled the elders, or ancestors, to gain a good report. Suggest that their stories testify to the power of trusting God through the unseen and unknown. This point urges believers to pursue a legacy of faith by recounting how Biblical examples received commendation through their unwavering trust in God, much like the life of Jesus Christ.

3. Awareness of Creation's Source

Heb 11:3

Perhaps discuss how by faith, we comprehend that the universe was created by the Word of God. Highlight how this understanding transforms our perspective on creation, showing God's invisible hand at work. Link this to Christ, the Logos, through whom all things were made, suggesting believers should rest in knowing the visible world is sustained by the unseen Savior.