Faith Pleases God (7)

Faith That Pleases God: Echoes of Divine Approval

Bible Passage: Hebrews 11:4–6

Summary: Hebrews 11:4–6 highlights the significance of faith through the examples of Abel and Enoch, demonstrating that true faith pleases God and is essential for a relationship with Him.

Application: This passage encourages Christians to cultivate a faith that is not merely intellectual but heartfelt and active. It serves as a reminder that our actions, inspired by faith, can reflect our relationship with God and bring Him glory, helping us navigate doubts and fears.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that faith is the foundation of our relationship with God, emphasizing that genuine faith results in God’s favor and ultimate reward. Understanding that faith entails both belief and action can inspire believers to pursue a deeper connection with God.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader context of Scripture, this passage points to Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promise, where faith in Him leads to salvation and eternal life. Abel's sacrifice foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice, while Enoch's life exemplifies the reward of those who diligently seek God.

Big Idea: Genuine faith, expressed through actions that please God, leads to divine approval and rewards.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon, consider exploring the historical context of Hebrews and the significance of the faith examples provided. You might delve into the cultural understanding of sacrifice in Abel's time versus Christ's fulfilled sacrifice, and use Logos to examine commentaries on faith throughout Hebrews. Additionally, investigate the implications of Enoch's faith and the concept of 'pleasing God,' focusing on the text's nuances.

1. Faith's Acceptable Offering

Hebrews 11:4

Maybe you could illustrate how Abel's faith-driven sacrifice highlights the notion that faith manifests through offerings given to God. His action, motivated by genuine belief, resulted in divine approval, demonstrating that God values heartfelt devotion over mere religious formality. This point encourages believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, motivated by faith, aligning their deeds with their beliefs. Perhaps explore how Abel's sacrifice foreshadows Christ's sacrificial love, which God fully accepted, setting the stage for our redemption.

2. Faith's Divine Fellowship

Hebrews 11:5

This passage about Enoch suggests the profound truth that walking in faith results in divine fellowship and approval. Perhaps you could share how Enoch's testimony, described as 'pleasing God,' signifies the relational aspect of faith that transcends mere obligation. Emphasize the importance of daily faithfulness and trust in God, and reflect on how Christ's presence in our lives fulfills this intimate walk. Maybe encourage believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, akin to Enoch’s, knowing that faith-filled living transforms us.

3. Faith's Earnest Pursuit

Hebrews 11:6

You could highlight that this verse encapsulates the essence of faith that pleases God — believing in His existence and His reward for those who seek Him. Perhaps emphasize that faith must actively pursue God, leading to a life of trust and expectancy. Share how Christ, as the ultimate reward, fulfills God's promises, guiding believers to seek Him earnestly. This encourages a persistent, active relationship with Christ, demonstrating that faith is not static but dynamic, shaping how we live and perceive the world around us.

What examples does Hebrews 11:4–6 provide to illustrate the concept of faith?

How does Abel's sacrifice reflect the idea of genuine faith in action?

In what ways does Enoch's faith highlight the importance of a relationship with God?

What does Hebrews 11:6 say about the nature of faith that pleases God?

How can the examples of Abel and Enoch inspire us to cultivate our own faith?