• Introduction
    • The scriptures offer us comfort in times of trials. Hebrews 11-12 shows the power of faith in a faithless world. This text alone offers comfort, but a detailed study in the Old Testament of those characters mentioned offers even greater encouragement.
  • Parameters in studying Hebrews 11-12
    • Primary purpose, Hebrews 12:12-13, 3
    • God requires faith, Hebrews 11:6
    • Comfort from trusting evidence of what is not seen, either in the present (God, King Jesus, Holy Spirit) or future (eternal reward). Hebrews 11:1, 3, 8
    • People of strong faith “see” and “embrace” an invisible reward. Hebrews 11:9-10, 13
    • Enduring and persevering in trials makes faith stronger. Hebrews 12:7, 11; James 1:2-4
    • Faith grants us citizenship in an “unshaken” kingdom. Hebrews 12:28-29; Philippians 3:20-4:1
    • God offered countless “real” examples of faith to which we can relate. Hebrews 11
  • Examples of Faith in a Faithless World
    • Those of the Old Testament are our examples. God confirms their reality. I Corinthians 10:6, 11; Romans 15:4
      • Hebrews 11:1-2 – elders’ good testimony. Example: Hebrews 11:4-5, Abel and Enoch. God preserved evidence.
      • Hebrews 12:1 – great cloud of witnesses, yet more unmentioned, Hebrews 11:32. See also John 20:30; 21:25.
    • Heroes of faith, Hebrews 11:1-12:1
      • Trusted and obeyed God, Hebrews 11:1-22
      • Trusted and obeyed God during afflictions, Hebrews 11:23-12:1
    • Why they can comfort me in trying times – Hebrews 12:1-29
  • Conclusion
    • We will all face trials, individually, congregationally, nationally. But with strong faith, we can endure and be comforted that God rewards the faithful.