1. A number of Old Testament characters mentioned in Hebrews 11 illustrate how faith will enable a person to be in good standing with God. 2. In vs.4-28 we read about the faith of nine individuals, including Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Moses. 3. In vs.29-30 we read about the faith of the Israelites as a group. 4. According to Hebrews 3:16-19, the Israelites did not always demonstrate great faith. 5. However, on these two occasions they did. a. (vs.29) By faith they passed through the Red Sea. b. (vs.30) By faith they conquered Jericho. Discussion: I. (vs.29) BY FAITH THE ISRAELITES PASSED THROUGH THE RED SEA
A. (Exodus 12-13) The Israelites left Egypt and began their journey to Canaan. B. Their passing through the Red Sea is recorded in Exodus 14. 1. (vs.1-4) God directed the Israelites to camp by the sea. 2. (vs.5-9) The Egyptians pursued after the Israelites. 3. (vs.10-14) The Israelites became afraid, but Moses assured them that God would deliver them from the Egyptians. 4. (vs.15-22) God directed the Israelites to go forward, and they passed through the Red Sea on dry ground. 5. (vs.23-31) God destroyed the Egyptians as they attempted to go through the sea. II. (vs.30) BY FAITH THE ISRAELITES CONQUERED JERICHO
A. After forty years the Israelites finally entered Canaan (Joshua 1-5). B. Their victory over Jericho is recorded in Joshua 6. 1. (vs.1-5) God gave Joshua instructions for taking Jericho. 2. (vs.6-21) The Israelites followed God's instructions and took the city.
