Building on the Faith of Others

Bible Passage: Hebrews 11:17–22

Big Idea: Faith requires us to act on the certainty of God’s promises, even when their realization seems distant, assuring us that God's faithfulness shapes our present and future, leaving a legacy of trust for forthcoming generations.

1. Abraham’s Astonishing Sacrifice vs. 17-19

Genesis 22:1 ESV

After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.”

Genesis 21:12 ESV

But God said to Abraham, “Be not displeased because of the boy and because of your slave woman. Whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for through Isaac shall your offspring be named.

Romans 9:7 ESV

and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.”

“When we give our attention to keeping God’s precepts and leave Him to fulfill His own promises, all will be well. It was Abraham’s part to offer up his son; it was God’s part to fulfill the promise to His seed according to the covenant that He had made.”

Spurgeon, Charles. 2014. Spurgeon Commentary: Hebrews. Edited by Elliot Ritzema and Jessi Strong. Spurgeon Commentary Series. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.

2. Isaac's Insightful Blessing v. 20

3. Jacob's Generational Gift v.21

Genesis 32:10 ESV

I am not worthy of the least of all the deeds of steadfast love and all the faithfulness that you have shown to your servant, for with only my staff I crossed this Jordan, and now I have become two camps.

Genesis 32:31 ESV

The sun rose upon him as he passed Penuel, limping because of his hip.

4. Joseph's Hopeful Legacy v.22