Hebrews 11 Study Notes

Pistis carries a spectrum of meaning in the NT. It can refer to something completely trustworthy. Christ’s resurrection is the proof (i.e., trustworthy evidence) that God will one day judge the world (Ac 17:31). Pistis may also refer to a pledge (1Tm 5:12). It sometimes means the state of being faithful or trustworthy. God’s faithfulness ensures he will fulfill his promises (Rm 3:3). Pistis may express belief with complete trust. The NT refers to the faith of OT characters (Rm 4:9,11-13,16; Heb 11:4-33,39) and of Christians (Heb 6:1; 10:39). In the Gospels, faith is often expressed as reliance on the Lord’s power over nature, illness, and spiritual powers (Mt 8:10; Mk 2:5; Lk 8:25). Christian piety involves faith accompanied by works (Jms 2:14,17, etc.). Finally, pistis may refer to the doctrine one believes. Christians should contend for the faith (i.e., the body of apostolic doctrine) delivered to them (Jd 3,20).

Throughout the chapter, the author provided examples of people in the OT who exercised faith. He focused most heavily on Abraham and Moses. To complete the list with a crescendo (vv. 32-40), he recounted an inspiring litany of the fruit of faith displayed in the virtuous life, faithful death, and anticipated resurrection of numerous OT heroes. Although their faith was approved, they did not receive what God had promised. The purpose of this delay was to ensure that they would not be perfected apart from Jesus Christ.