1. This morning we showed how Jesus always pleased the Father, and we are to follow His example. 2. This verse reveals the key to pleasing the Father -- "faith." 3. In our lesson we are pointing out "5 benefits of faith" from Hebrews 11. Discussion: I. FIRST, THROUGH FAITH WE CAN KNOW THINGS WE CANNOT SEE
A. (vs.1) Faith is defined as "the 'substance' [assurance] of things hoped for, the 'evidence' [conviction] of things not seen." B. With our faith based on God's Word (Romans 10:17), we can know: 1. things from the past we have not seen (vs.3; Genesis 1) 2. things in the future we have not seen (vs.13-16; John 14:2-3). II. SECOND, THROUGH FAITH WE CAN BE IN GOOD STANDING WITH GOD
A. (vs.2) Through faith the elders obtained "a good report," including: 1. Abel (vs.4) 2. Enoch (vs.5). B. (vs.6) Through faith we can please God. 1. We must believe that He exists, but believing in God alone is not sufficient (James 2:19). 2. We must also believe that He rewards those who "diligently seek Him." III. THIRD, THROUGH FAITH WE CAN FOLLOW GOD'S INSTRUCTIONS, EVEN UNDER DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES
A. (vs.7) Noah followed God's instructions to build the ark. B. Abraham followed God's instructions to: 1. leave his homeland and go to a place God would show him (vs.8-10) 2. offer Isaac as a sacrifice (vs.17-19). IV. FOURTH, THROUGH FAITH WE CAN LOOK TO THE FUTURE WITH OPTIMISM
A. (vs.20) Isaac looked to the future as he blessed his sons. B. (vs.21) Jacob looked to the future as he blessed Joseph's sons. C. (vs.22) Joseph looked to the future as he made burial plans. V. FIFTH, THROUGH FAITH WE CAN OVERCOME OBSTACLES
A. (vs.23-28) Moses overcame obstacles throughout his life. B. (vs.29-30) The Israelites overcame obstacles on several occasions. C. (vs.31) Rahab, a Gentile harlot, was spared when Jericho was destroyed. D. (vs.32-38) Many other Old Testament characters overcame difficult trials as they served God. E. (vs.39-40) A message of encouragement is given to Christians who have access to far greater blessings than the Old Testament characters listed. Conclusion:
1. Faith is the key to pleasing the Father. 2. Let us strive to increase our faith -- it provides special benefits.
