Hebrews 11:20-40
As we continue in chapter 11, also known as the Hall of Faith, in every example of faith, there is an action. Let’s remember that faith without action is useless and unproductive (James 2:20). Our obedience is more than reliance in theory; it’s reliance in action! In verse 40, we read that we complete them because the Christ they hoped for is the Christ who has now been received. We should show great honor to those who walk in faith, whether in the past or in the present, generations working together for God to have His kingdom way.
Ezekiel 13-15
This is a continued message of judgment for Judah. In chapter 13 is a woe, or sorrow, for false prophets, or leaders who were saying God said something that God never said. We see this today as well. Verse 7 God says about these false prophecies, “You say, ‘The Lord says,’ but I have not spoken.” Can you imagine God’s perspective when someone puts words in His mouth? Why would someone make something up? In verse 10 the reason given is because these leaders want to seduce people, or to gain influence over the people. In verse 20, God tells these false prophets that He is against their charms by which you hunt souls there like birds. To charm someone is to use gifts of charisma or position to change someone’s way of thinking or persuade them to do something they shouldn’t do. In verse 19, God says these leaders are lying to His children, something God takes seriously. God says, “I will tear them from your arms, and let the souls go, the souls you hunt like birds.”
Chapter 14 is a judgment on idolatry and persistent unfaithfulness and that judgment comes in allowing the sword, famine, wild beasts, and pestilence (massive death by disease), verse 21. In verse 23 God says, “I have done nothing without cause.” God always has purpose.
Chapter 15 is a picture of rotten wood that is good for nothing but to be burned. God compares the inhabitants of Jerusalem to wood that can’t be used for constructive purposes. If we were to relate this to the church today, we want to be the type of member that will help build up a local church by being strong and loyal to the Lord and to each other.
Take notice that we see more of the phrase “you shall know that I am the Lord” in these chapters, an emphasis that God wants His people to know Him as the Lord and their Lord.
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