The faith of Abraham is discussed in three significant New Testament passages. ROMANS 4 shows how Abraham’s faith saved him. HEBREWS 11 shows why Abraham’s faith saved him. JAMES 2 shows when Abraham’s faith saved him.
Before the Law of Moses … Before the written Word … Before the life of Jesus … What exactly did Abraham have faith in? Hebrews 11:6 (ESV) And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Hebrews 11:8 Abraham’s faith was obedient and active. Being sure of God is not the same thing as understanding all that God knows! Abraham’s faith in God was not a leap in the dark. The life that he lived because of that faith was.
Hebrews 11:9-10 Abraham’s faith was a rule of life. Abraham allowed faith to change him and his family. Abraham acted in faith that God rewards them that diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:11-12 Abraham and Sarah believed that God kept His promises. The result of this faith was a blessing beyond reckoning. The “impossible” happened because Abraham believed that it could.
Hebrews 11:13-16 Abraham believed in the present reality of future promises – “having seen them and greeted them from afar.” Abraham was a man on earth “living” in Heaven. Their homeland was not Ur of Chaldees or even Canaan.
Hebrews 11:17-19 Abraham in faith passed the test. Abraham believed in the power of God to give life and to always keep His promises. Likewise, there is a new life waiting for you.