Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

Hebrews 11 is traditionally known as the “Faith Chapter”, here the author goes through many heroes of the Bible and how their faith in God saved them. It’s to demonstrate that we can’t be saved without faith. All throughout the Bible from Abraham to Paul , it was faith that saved these men, not their own righteousness or works.  For it by grace you have been saved through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9)

The original Greek word for faith is “Pistis” meaning belief, trust, expectation. Faith is not wishful thinking or hoping. Faith is truly having confidence in God that you are saved by the works of Christ, and truly having confidence that God will deliver you

For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. Hebrews 11:2-3

It’s with faith or confidence that we know the universe was created by God. The universe didn’t randomly create itself from nothingness, or was created by a group of aliens. The evidence of God’s creation is clearly seen in the world, that we are without excuse (Romans 1:20) 

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. Hebrews 11:4-5

Why did God reject Cain and accept Abel’s sacrifice? Because Cain lacked true faith! Why did Enoch escape death and was raptured to Heaven? Was it because Enoch was a sinless man? No , for we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) Enoch’s faith pleased God

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6

Without faith it’s impossible to please God! Thats a strong statement we should ponder in our hearts. Yes Christ died for the sins of the world, but without faith you wont be saved. You need to fully trust and believe (faith) that Jesus is your Lord and paid the penalty for your sins!

I encourage you to read the entire chapter of Hebrews 11, as the author demonstrates how all the patriachs of the Bible were saved by faith Amen!