The Assurance of Faith and the Promise of Resurrection

What does the author of Hebrews mean when he writes, "faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen"? This statement emphasizes the utmost confidence that we place in God's promises, along with a deep trust in His Word. Faith is not merely a feeling but a demonstration of our belief in the fulfillment of God's promises, even when those promises are not yet realized. The author of Hebrews considers faith to be a strong assurance that complements our hope in an eternal life.

Illustrating Faith with Examples

Take the example of a doctor who can cure a person. We have faith in the doctor's ability to heal us, but unless we have that faith and act upon it, we receive no benefit. It is the same with faith in God's promises. Have we taken the necessary steps to trust His word and act upon it?

Similarly, while we cannot see gravity, we can observe its effects when we jump. In the same way, we cannot see the resurrection with our physical eyes, but we can see the evidence in the Bible. The author of Hebrews mentions that all the resurrections mentioned in the Bible, from Moses to Jesus, were instances of individuals being brought back to life on earth. There were no references to a heaven or any other post-life experiences. This reality underscores the possibility and reality of a future resurrection.

Understanding Faith: More Than Words and Actions

The term 'faith' extends beyond mere belief in the life of Christ and performing His requests. Faith involves a deep commitment to the Word of God. It means living your life in accordance with what Christ has asked of you, especially during times of tribulation. Through continuous prayer and reliance on God's word, you can experience His protection and see the fruition of your faith in the gospel.

A Friend in Jehovah: Abraham’s Obedience and Triumph

Consider the life of Abraham. Despite living for 175 years, he died satisfied with his life. The Bible describes his end as peaceful, but this does not mean he was content with the end of his existence. Rather, Abraham was confident in his friendship with Jehovah, the God of Israel.

According to Hebrews 11:10, Abraham was awaiting the establishment of a heavenly city. He had faith that one day, he would see the Kingdom of God ruling over this earth. This was more than a mere thought; it was a firm conviction that brought comfort and hope to Abraham. The resurrection of Christ was an illustration of this promise, which Abraham was eagerly anticipating.

Abraham’s example is a powerful reminder of the rewards of loyal service to God. While he may have suffered during certain moments, such as the pain of preparing to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham's faith laid the foundation for a deeper understanding of God's love and His provision of the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus Christ. John 3:16 confirms the incredible act of love and the suffering that went into providing a ransom for the world.

Imitating Faithful Examples

Each of us can strive to imitate Abraham's faith. As we deepen our relationship with God, we not only gain integrity but also a greater understanding of the rewards of loyal service. Hebrews 6:10-12 highlights the importance of continued faith and the promise that God will be our friend forever. Let us be inspired by the examples of those who placed their trust in God and followed His commandments with conviction.