Hebrews 11:8-19

5 Lessons on Faith from the Life of Abraham

Faith doesn't always know what's next (8)
--Genesis 12:1
--God has a plan/vision for His people, but we don't always get the details
--Faith is moving towards that vision step by step
--God's Word is a lamp for our feet, it shows enough light for your next step

Faith doesn't feel quite at home in this world (9-10, 13c-16)
--We start as aliens to God (Colossians 1:21)
--Then we become aliens to the world (1 Peter 2:11)
--So we aren't interested in earthly treasure
--The church misses this point when it focuses on buildings and earthly traditions

Faith believes God can do the impossible (11-12)
--But Abraham laughed at God! (Genesis 17:15-19)
--But Sarah laughed at God! (Genesis 18:10-15)
--Therefore, faith wasn't (and isn't) the absence of doubt
--Faith is the presence of belief & obedience

Faith doesn't always receive NOW (13ab)
--Abraham was 100 when he finally received a son
--Abraham obtained very little land
--Physical healing NOW is the exception (hence the term 'miracle')
--Our faith is largely future based, earthly answers are just glimpses of heaven

Faith obeys even when it doesn't make sense (17-19)
--Abraham waited for Isaac for many years
--Even still, Abraham held him loosely
--Abrham believed God could do the incredible