Hebrew 11: The relationship of faith and grace

Do you recall those school or church sessions where you shared stories and examples during show and tell? 

Nostalgia might bring back memories of grasping concepts better through relatable tales. 

Now, consider the notion of faith. This can be perplexing to apply in your life due to doubt and limited understanding of God's Word.

In the Bible, Hebrew 11 is known as the Hall of Faith. This is like a show and tell of faith journeys, showing the concept's definition through real stories. 

However, it does not just end there. This chapter also delves into the connection between faith and grace.

With this being said, we will decode faith according to Hebrew 11 and establish its relationship with grace to provide you with an understanding of how to live your life as a Christian.

Hall of Faith in Hebrew 11

Within the Bible, many were highlighted as faith exemplars. However, in Hebrew 11, here are the specific ones mentioned.

Abel

Abel is the son of Adam and Eve. Through his faith, he was able to offer a more pleasing sacrifice than his brother Cain. 

His offering was accepted because it demonstrated his genuine devotion and trust in God's ways.

Enoch

Enoch's faith was unique in that he walked closely with God and was even taken by God, sparing him from experiencing death. 

This close communion showcased his deep faith. Moreover, it highlighted the purpose of human existence, a profound relationship and fellowship with God.

Noah

Noah's faith manifested as godly fear and obedience. 

Despite the ridicule and disbelief of others, he diligently followed God's instructions to build the ark. 

It showcased his unwavering trust in God's promises, even when they seemed distant and implausible.

Abraham

Abraham's faith was not only demonstrated through his journey to Canaan, leaving behind the familiar and embracing the unknown. 

However, it was also previously shown in his willingness to sacrifice his long-awaited son, Isaac. 

Abraham's faith wasn't just about his obedience. It was about his reliance on God's grace to fulfill what seemed impossible. 

His willingness to give up his most precious possession displayed his submission to God's will, acknowledging that God's plans and ways are higher than our own.

Isaac

Initially, Isaac tried to deviate from God's sovereign plan, but he failed to manipulate his circumstances, blessing Jacob instead of Esau. 

It was during the moment of revelation in which he realized and acknowledged God's ultimate control.

Jacob 

Jacob's faith was centered on God's promises to his descendants. 

His life's trials and blessings led him to place his trust in God's faithfulness for the future of his family.

Moses

Moses's faith enabled him to choose obedience to God over the approval of man. 

His courage to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt demonstrated his deep trust in God's guidance and deliverance.

Rahab

Rahab's faith was expressed through her willingness to aid the Israelite spies, despite the personal risk. 

Her choice to align with God's people showcased her faith in God's plan and protection.

Sarah

Sarah's faith journey was not without its doubts. Yet she eventually came to understand that God's faithfulness superseded human imperfections. 

Through the birth of Isaac, despite her old age, she learned to rely on God's promises.

Definition of faith

From the lives of these Bible figures, we can draw several conclusions about the definition of faith. 

Here are some of them.

Faith is holding on to God’s promises

Think about Abraham. He held tight to the promise of a new city called Canaan, even though it wasn't where he and his family would settle down forever. 

They were looking forward to another city, one built by God Himself, not people (Hebrews 11:10). This city meant something more than just a place. It stood for something special between them and God. 

While they didn't fully get to see this promise come true during their lives, they held onto God's promises because they saw them as a special invitation from Him.

Accordingly, faith is being sure about something you're hoping for, even if you can't see it right in front of you. 

Faith is moving forward in response to God’s calling 

Think of it like this: when you trust God, you're taking steps even when you don't know everything ahead of time. 

Just like Abraham followed God's call and moved toward Canaan, faith pushes you forward into a future that's brightened by His presence. 

It is about taking brave steps into what you don't know, trusting that God is guiding you all the way.

Definition of grace

First, grace is a special favor from God that you don't have to earn or deserve. This is because, Jesus, who embodies grace, released us from following strict rules of the Law. 

He granted us power over sin and promised forgiveness whenever we fall short.

Second, grace is unchanging.

It is a firm concept in Reformed theology that Christ, his blessings to us, and his coming are the heart of the covenant of grace. This core remains constant because Christ remains unchanged.

Third, grace is also about redemption

In Hebrew 11, the primary message is not just about showcasing people of faith. This is about showing how foolish it is to return to old traditions. 

Through Christ, we now have what others have been seeking by faith— salvation. In various forms, Christ was revealed and made accessible to the people. 

Lastly, grace is divine guidance.

God was present in and beneath the types and shadows. He guided His people in the wilderness and led them through the Red Sea. 

In other words, Our Shepherd was not only present during His Son’s incarnation; he's always been our Shepherd, guiding us through life's challenges.

Relationship of faith and grace

The Book of Hebrews serves as a guide to help us understand how faith and grace are intertwined. 

Grace is the foundational step in this cycle. It is the starting point of the relationship between God and individuals, representing God's initiative and love toward humanity.

Faith is then the response of an individual to the grace of God. It involves believing in God's promises, accepting the truth of Jesus Christ, and entrusting one's life to God's care. 

Moreover, as a result of receiving God's grace, believers are called to live out their faith in their daily lives. 

Such a faithful response involves actions, attitudes, and behaviors that align with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. 

It is a demonstration of the transformative power of faith, leading individuals to live in ways that reflect God's love, mercy, and justice. This response is an outward manifestation of the inner change that faith brings about.

By actively participating in God's purpose and plan, we express our gratitude for the salvation we have received through grace.

Just as those highlighted in the Hall of Faith clung to their unwavering trust in God despite challenges, we are also called to maintain our faith.

However, faith is also often described as a gift from God as well, enabling humans to recognize and accept God's grace.

Faith in action

The teachings of Hebrews 11 underscore faith in action, revealing how it is intricately linked with grace. 

Through the stories of those who've gone before, you learn that faith propels people to do extraordinary deeds. 

Their actions stem from trusting in God's promises, which is where grace comes in. 

Just as they acted in faith due to God's grace, you are encouraged to live out your faith through actions that demonstrate your reliance on God's plans and His unmerited favor.

More from Crossmap:

Narcissism in the Bible: How to avoid excessive self-love