Hebrews 11:32-40
Q.1. What are some of the amazing fruits of faith which the writer highlighted? Was this faith restricted to temporal blessings? – (Heb.11:32-35)
The writer documented many amazing exploits which had a successful outcome. We all love to hear about such triumphs of faith – 33 who by faith conquered kingdoms, performed acts of righteousness, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. 35 Women received back their dead by resurrection and others were tortured, not accepting their release, so that they might obtain a better resurrection (Heb.11:33-35). However, the writer considered that regardless of the temporal outcome, there is a better resurrection of which we must not lose sight.
Q.2. How did the writer account for the men and women of faith who suffered and died? When is true faith rewarded? – (Heb.11:36-40)
Faith does not always have a positive outcome in this life. In addressing the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2-3, the Risen Christ commends both the churches of Smyrna (see Rev.2:8-11) and Philadelphia (see Rev.3:7-13). Yet Philadelphia was fruitful and free whereas Smyrna was persecuted and included many martyrs for the faith. Such trials can cause much stress and confusion. It can be hard to rationalize why a ‘God of love’ would allow these things – 35 others were tortured, not accepting their release, so that they might obtain a better resurrection: 36 and others experienced mocking and scourging, yes, also chains and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were put to death with the sword; they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated 38 (men of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground (Heb.11:35-38). This gives a comprehensive range of the sufferings that may well be ours when we follow Christ (see Rom.8:35-39). We should never come to a premature conclusion about faith – 39 And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, 40 because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they would not be made perfect (Heb.11:39-40). The writer likely had in mind the Judgment Seat of Christ, where rewards will be granted for the faithful. The dead in Christ will rise first, then they will be closely followed by the living saints (see 1 Cor.3:10-15; 1 Thes.4:13-17).