Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10:23

Introduction

A. Although persecution was often great during the first century, the greatest danger these saints faced was apostasy (Hebrews 3:7-4:11).

B. Paul encouraged these Christians to persevere in the faith in spite of hardships, and we need the same admonition today.

Discussion

I. God so often delivered those who were faithful to Him.

A. There were those who subdued kingdoms (Hebrews 11:33).

B. There were those who quenched violent fire and stopped the mouths of lions (Hebrews 11:34; Daniel 3:17-18, 6:23).

C. There were those who escaped the sword and were delivered in underdog fights (Hebrews 11:34; 1 Samuel 17:51).

D. There were widows whose children were raised from the dead (Hebrews 11:35; cf. 1 Kings 17:17-24; 2 Kings 4:32-37).

II. But what about the “others”?

A. There were “others” who were mocked and scorned (Hebrews 11:36; cf. Jeremiah 20:2, 37:15, 38:4).

B. There were “others” who were forced to wander about and hide in caves (Hebrews 11:37; cf. 1 Kings 18:4, 19:9).

C. There were “others” who fell to the sword (Hebrews 11:37, cf. 2 Kings 23:29).

D. There were “others” who did not accept deliverance (Hebrews 11:35; cf. Daniel 3:15-18).

A. Do we still have faith in God when things don’t turn out the way we would like for them to?

B. Even if things aren’t going so well today, we need to remember that God loves us and has great things in store for us.