The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
New International Version (NIV): These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.
English Standard Version (ESV): And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised.
Introduction
The eleventh chapter of Hebrews is often referred to as the “Hall of Faith”. It contains an inspiring list of figures who demonstrated faith in God despite facing great trials and tribulations. Today, we are focusing on the culminating verse of this chapter, Hebrews 11:39. This verse drives home the point that faith is not about receiving everything we want in this life, but about trusting God, even when we don’t see the fulfillment of His promises.
These were faithful individuals who laid the groundwork for our faith today, yet they did not see in their lifetime the promise of Christ—the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan for humanity. Each of these individuals had a unique story, a unique struggle, and a unique faith, but they all shared a belief in God’s goodness and his promise of salvation.
Historical Context
The book of Hebrews is one of the most intriguing books in the New Testament. While the identity of its author remains a mystery, many scholars attribute it to Paul or one of his contemporaries. The book was written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution, to encourage them to persevere in their faith and to recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the ultimate High Priest.
Key Word Analysis
Let’s look at three key phrases: “commended for their faith”, “did not receive”, and “what was promised”.
Commended for their faith: This phrase in Greek is “emarturēthēsan dia tēs pisteōs”, bearing the essence of a testimony or witness to one’s faith. It holds the weight of approval, affirmation and validation.
Did not receive: The Greek word used here is ouk elabon, which signifies not taking hold of, or not obtaining something promised.
What was promised: This phrase in Greek is hēn epaggelian, referring to God’s promise of salvation, ultimately fulfilled by Jesus.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals that God’s promises are sure and steadfast, even when we do not see them fulfilled in our lifetime. The spiritual heroes of the Old Testament trusted God without seeing the promise of the Messiah fulfilled. Their faith was not about what they could receive, but about their unwavering belief in God’s goodness and faithfulness.
Life Application
In our lives today, we too may not see all of God’s promises fulfilled. We may face trials and tribulations, but we are encouraged to maintain our faith, just like the Old Testament heroes. Even if we do not see the complete picture, we can trust in God’s ultimate plan for us.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“Beloved, just as those who came before you trusted in My Father’s promises, so too must you have faith. The fulfillment of His promise may not be seen in your lifetime, but trust in His perfect plan. Your inheritance is not of this world but in My Kingdom. Keep your faith steadfast, for your reward is with Me.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, strengthen our faith in the face of trials. Help us to trust in Your promise, even when we cannot see its fulfillment. Like the saints of old, may our lives be a testament to Your faithfulness. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Why didn’t the people mentioned in Hebrews 11 see God’s promise fulfilled?
Ans: The promise they did not receive in their lifetimes was the coming of Jesus Christ, the salvation of mankind which was fulfilled after their time.
Ques: What does being ‘commended for their faith’ mean?
Ans: Being ‘commended for their faith’ means they were acknowledged, approved, and affirmed for their unwavering belief and trust in God.
Ques: How can I apply this verse to my life?
Ans: You can apply this verse by trusting in God’s promises, even when you can’t see them fulfilled, knowing that His plans are perfect and beyond our comprehension.
Ques: What is the central message of Hebrews 11:39?
Ans: The central message is that faith in God is not about receiving everything we want in this life, but about trusting God, even without seeing the fulfillment of His promises.
Related Verses
Hebrews 11:1: Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. It echoes the sentiment of verse 39 by defining what faith is.
Hebrews 11:6: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. This verse connects by emphasizing the importance of faith in our relationship with God.
2 Corinthians 5:7: For we live by faith, not by sight. This verse relates to Hebrews 11:39 in its call for believers to live by faith and not just by what we can see.
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👉 Join now. No fluff. Just Jesus.