The Faith of Abel, Enoch, and Noah (Hebrews 11:4, 5, 7)
Introduction:
1. Hebrews 11 is "the great faith chapter of the Bible." 2. In this chapter several fundamental principles relating to faith are addressed. a. Faith is described (vs.1). b. Faith enables us to understand things that we have not seen (vs.3). c. Faith is essential (vs.6). d. Faith will enable a person to obtain a good report (vs.2). 3. This chapter also tells about the faith that was demonstrated by a number of men and women in the Old Testament. 4. These great examples of faith need to be studied carefully today because they provide encouragement for Christians (Hebrews 12:1). 5. In this lesson we are concentrating on the faith of Abel (vs.4), Enoch (vs.5), and Noah (vs.7).
Discussion:
I. (vs.4) THE FAITH OF ABEL
A. Abel "offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain" (see Genesis 4:3-5). B. By doing so Abel "obtained witness that he was righteous." 1. Jesus referred to him as "righteous Abel" (Matthew 23:35). 2. Abel's works are described as "righteous" (1 John 3:12). C. Abel's faith illustrates the importance of offering excellent sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Peter 2:5).
II. (vs.5) THE FAITH OF ENOCH
A. Enoch was one of two men who did not have to face death (see Genesis 5:21-24). B. Before Enoch was translated it was reported that "he pleased God." C. Enoch's faith illustrates the importance of serving the Lord diligently so we can be prepared for the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:58).
III. (vs.7) THE FAITH OF NOAH
A. Noah was "warned of God of things not seen as yet" (see Genesis 6:17). B. Noah's fear moved him to prepare the ark so he and his family would be spared from the flood (see Genesis 6:13-16, 22; 7:1-5). C. Noah's faith illustrates the importance of being prepared for the Lord's return (Matthew 24:36-39).
