The List

The List

Q: Whose name is missing from this verse? “It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of _____, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets.”

• a. Daniel
• b. Paul
• c. Gideon

There are many names that could be listed in Hebrews 11 but aren’t. How did God decide who would be listed and who wouldn’t? We don’t know. (This list in Hebrews 11 is known as the Hall of Faith, which we started discussing on December 6.) Many people are listed by name, and others are listed by their accomplishments.

Can you think of the Bible characters who fit the descriptions given at the end of Hebrews 11? “By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight” (verses 33-34).

The people mentioned in Hebrews 11 are there because of their faith in God, but each showed their faith in a different way. Some followed God to foreign lands, stood up to ungodly leaders, believed God could do the impossible, and pushed on in the face of danger.

If God made a new Hall of Faith today, whom might he choose? The athlete who gives God the glory for his talent? The doctor who prays before performing surgery? The missionary who goes into a hostile country? How about you? Would your name be on the list?

For You

Would your name be on God’s Hall of Faith list? You don’t have to be an adult to live by faith. You can do it each day as you choose to be honest when taking a test, as you stand up for the girl who’s being bullied, as you invite classmates to church, or as you help someone in need.

Answer: c

How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets.   Hebrews 11:32

(The Whole Story: Hebrews 11)