The "Hall of Faith"

* A "hall of fame" is "a building or museum established to honor persons judged outstanding in their field." The term may also refer to "a list of such outstanding persons." Hebrews 11 provides a list of persons "commended for their faith" (11:2, 39). Thus Hebrews 11 has often been called the "Hall of Faith" chapter. However, the purpose of Hebrews 11 is not to glorify these persons, but to offer them as good examples of faith.

* In this series, we will consider various examples of faith. From these examples, we will learn valuable and practical lessons concerning genuine biblical faith.

What is "Faith?"

1. How would you define "faith?"

2. How is "faith" described in Hebrews 11:1?

• "Now faith is being ________________ of what we ________________ for

and _________________ of what we do ________ _________" (Hebrews 1:1, NIV).

Faith Involves the Unseen

* Faith involves the future. "Faith is being sure of what we hope for …"

* Faith involves the spiritual.

Faith is in God

* God exists (11:6).

* God is the Creator.

† "By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." (11:3, NIV)

* God is to be trusted (11:1, 39-40).

• God is to be trusted because He is the purposeful Creator, and He is sovereign, all-knowing, loving, righteous, all-powerful, and faithful to His promises.

? How can we know these things about God?

* God is to be pursued and obeyed.

† "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (11:6, NIV)

Faith Has Basis

* Faith is based on God's self-revelation.

* Faith is based on God's promises.

• Some of God's promises have already been fulfilled. Others will be fulfilled in the future.

• The people in the "Hall of Faith" persevered in faith even though "none of them received what had been promised" (Hebrews 11:39).

• God's promises are ultimately fulfilled "in Christ." (Hebrews 11:40; Corinthians 1:18-20)

* Faith is reasonable.

Why Do We Lack Faith?

3. Why do people lack biblical faith? Why do some people not believe? As Christians, why do we often lack faith?

4. What are the consequences of a lack of faith?

Reflection/Application

Read Hebrews 11 and review this handout. Ask yourself these questions: In what areas or situations am I lacking faith right now? What can I do about it? Continue in this series.