HEROES OF FAITH | ABRAHAM

0. Introduction

a) Hebrews 11 is often called the "Hall of Faith" or the "Faith Hall of Fame." In this noted Bible chapter, the writer of the book of Hebrews introduces an impressive list of heroic figures from the Old Testament--remarkable men and women whose stories stand out to encourage and challenge our faith. Some of these heroes of faith are well-known Bible personalities, while others remain anonymous.

b) Let's look at Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith.

1. ABRAHAM - The Father of the Jewish Nation

a) Abraham receives much more than a brief mention among the heroes of faith. A good deal of emphasis (from Hebrews 11:8-19) is given to this biblical giant and father of the Jewish nation.

b) One of Abraham's most notable feats of faith occurred when he willingly obeyed God's command in Genesis 22:2: "Take your son, your only son--yes, Isaac, whom you love so much--and go to the land of Moriah. Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you." (NLT)

c) Abraham was fully prepared to slay his son, while fully trusting God to either resurrect Isaac from the dead, or provide a substitutionary sacrifice. At the last minute, God intervened and supplied the necessary ram. The death of Isaac would have contradicted every promise God had made to Abraham, so his willingness to perform the ultimate sacrifice of killing his son is probably the most dramatic example of faith and trust in God found in the entire Bible.