While last week's passage covers the span of Genesis 1-11, this passage covers the narrative of Genesis 12-50, through the foundation of the relationship between the LORD and Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Again, the pattern established in 11:1-2 continues in this section. Faith is demonstrated when people act in (1) the assurance of things they hope to happen (by God's hand) and/or (2) the conviction of things not seen. When God's people act in this way there is a commendation that is received.
The LORD's calling of Abraham to go "to the land that I will show you" falls in line with this assurance/confidence, just as Sarah's confidence in the promised offspring in spite of her old age, God's preservation of Isaac when offered for sacrifice (Gen 22), and all the other examples in this passage.
Realistically, those mentioned here didn't experience the earthly commendation. While there is truth in the practicality of the need for an eternal perspective(!), it can be hard when we stand in the face of hardships, temptations, and struggles. This is where the original audience of Hebrews stood and where we are. The hard reality is that to walk in faith means we are living without seeing that which we hope for. Milwaukee Churches have the opportunity to do much the same. The very nature of faith rests upon the hope that these things will come to pass.
Where to Land the Plane
The passage speaks throughout of the OT patriarchs looking toward a city that has been prepared for them. We must walk in view of the same truth. We need to be assured that Jesus has indeed gone to prepare a place for us (John 14:1-7). That through his death, resurrection, and ascension, Christ has secured our place with him in eternity. This is the faith that the patriarchs had— and in spite of their adversity and imperfections, they walked in faith. Will we? How is the Faith of Abraham an example to Churches in Milwaukee?
The LORD's calling of Abraham to go "to the land that I will show you" falls in line with this assurance/confidence, just as Sarah's confidence in the promised offspring in spite of her old age, God's preservation of Isaac when offered for sacrifice (Gen 22), and all the other examples in this passage.
Realistically, those mentioned here didn't experience the earthly commendation. While there is truth in the practicality of the need for an eternal perspective(!), it can be hard when we stand in the face of hardships, temptations, and struggles. This is where the original audience of Hebrews stood and where we are. The hard reality is that to walk in faith means we are living without seeing that which we hope for. Milwaukee Churches have the opportunity to do much the same. The very nature of faith rests upon the hope that these things will come to pass.
Where to Land the Plane
The passage speaks throughout of the OT patriarchs looking toward a city that has been prepared for them. We must walk in view of the same truth. We need to be assured that Jesus has indeed gone to prepare a place for us (John 14:1-7). That through his death, resurrection, and ascension, Christ has secured our place with him in eternity. This is the faith that the patriarchs had— and in spite of their adversity and imperfections, they walked in faith. Will we? How is the Faith of Abraham an example to Churches in Milwaukee?
No comments:
Post a Comment