Hebrews 11:1

Context

At the end of Hebrews 10, the author urges readers not to cast away their confidence but to endure, saying, "But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul" (10:39). To show what this "faith" is, chapter 11 then lists Old Testament figures in turn, including Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Moses. Verse 1 opens this long list. Many interpreters regard it less as a complete definition of faith than as a summary of the characteristics of faith that these figures share.

Interpretation

• "Substance" (Greek hypostasis): The word originally means "that which stands underneath," that is, a foundation or underlying reality. Older English translations render it "substance," while many modern translations render it "assurance." The former emphasizes an objective sense, in which faith makes a hope not yet realized present and real now. The latter emphasizes a subjective sense: the firm conviction in the believer's heart. Korean translations such as the Saebeonyeok (Revised New Korean Standard Version) render the phrase "faith is the assurance of things hoped for."
• "Evidence" (Greek elenchos): The word means "proof" or "demonstration." It is read either as faith confirming that unseen things are real or as conviction concerning things not seen.
• Orientation toward the future: Interpreters stress that faith in Hebrews is an enduring faith, the faith of those who, though they had not received the promises, saw them afar off and embraced them (11:13).

Controversies and Issues

On the basis of the translation "substance," some teach that what one hopes for and declares in faith will actually come to pass (so-called "positive confession"). Critics respond that many of the figures in chapter 11 did not receive the promise during their lifetimes (11:39), and they argue that the verse describes not a principle of wish fulfillment but perseverance in trusting God's promises to the end. The major Protestant traditions connect this faith with saving faith, while holding that the emphasis of Hebrews lies on perseverance and faithfulness.

Related Passages

• Hebrews 11:6
• Hebrews 11:13-16
• Romans 8:24-25
• 2 Corinthians 4:18