Rev. E. Anderson
This is a simple outline for you to think about and meditate on. The introduction, main thoughts and conclusion need further material to be added. It is an outline for you to expand, develop more fully and fill in to spiritual profit and inspiration.
MEN OF FAITH
Reading Hebrews 11
DIVINE PURPOSE: to create and cultivate men of great faith who will be able to render invaluable service to Him and to mankind. The emphasis in Hebrews 11 is on individuals who were people of faith in their generation and demonstrated it in a great way that brought the commendation of God upon their lives and deeds.
CHRIST’S MISSION: Besides coming to effect a great salvation for humanity, He also sought and worked to produce a team of men who would be great men of faith that would impact their day and subsequent generations. He, above all, was the perfect and absolute example to note and emulate.
What characterizes men of faith?
1/. A GREAT BELIEF AND ASSURANCE IN THE EXISTENCE AND PRESENCE OF GOD
As Hebrews 11: 6 states: they “believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him”. The issue has to whether God is or not is fully settled and they live in the knowledge and anticipation that He will make Himself known and do things for and through them
2/. AN OUTSTANDING CONVICTION TO THE REALITY AND DYNAMIC OF GOD’S WORD
There is a settled persuasion in their beings that God not only speaks the truth but whatever He says He will do will be done. If He promises on any front in any way, they absolutely know that He keep and fulfill His spoken word. God’s word is alive in them in promise and the prophetic and there is a keen anticipation all will be brought to pass. Abraham is a good example on this.
3/. AN AWARENESS OF THE NUMEROUS PROMISES GOD HAS LEGATED AND WILLS TO BE FURTHER FULFILLED
Men of faith become conversant with all that God has given in sacred covenant, treating such as a trustworthy legacy to be brought to pass. The Bible consists of two parts, the Old and New Testaments which abound with God assuring of what He both plans and will do. This sacred volume is full of guarantees to those who learn to believe His covenants – 2 Corinthians 1: 20; 2 Peter 1: 4
4/. A REALISATION THAT THERE WILL BE MOMENTS WHEN THEY NEED TO BELIEVE FOR THE IMPOSSIBLE TO OCCUR – FAITH TESTED AND READY FOR IT
God often permits the negative to arise and for people to learn to believe and trust what God has said even the most depressing and discouraging situations. Faith is challenge by doubt and unbelief but men of faith do not permit such to have its say or sway. Caleb was a person with such assurance that when severely tested would not permit such to dominate and dictate – Numbers 14: 6-9.
5/. A CONTINUAL TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE OF GOD’S SOVEREIGNITY IN THEIR MINISTRY AND AFFAIRS
There is the calm knowledge that God is always in charge and control and will answer every situation no matter how extreme. Because of this, they are able to witness and testify to the unfailing power and ability of God. Their testimony is continually being added to, and increasingly so.
CONCLUSION
It is time that we responded to God in this and allow Him to make great believers of us and to witness faith at work.
