Bible Question:
must believe that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. Do you think that this refers to something after salvation in the sense that after we are saved we must continue to believe that he is worth further pursuit. A believe without which we will never seek Him thus living in a way that pleases Him. Or do you think this is drawing out the fact that for salvation you must not only have faith that He exists but you must also have faith that He will carry out His promised reward of "salvation." Both are true I believe, the question is which do you think the author of Hebrews is trying to convey. In Love, Beja |
Bible Answer: Dear Beja, Salvation is IN CHRIST, not ouside of Him somewhwere, and we are sealed in Him by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). So it is not a thing to be lost, but a Person we are in continually. Hebrews 11:6 is speaking of how to please Him: by faith. When we walk in a way which does not please Him, we don't change the status of our salvation, because we are still in Christ and remain justified. That is a final accomplishment. If we do what pleases God, He shows His appreciation for our love and service by rewarding us. We please Him and He rewards us. Salvation is NOT a reward, but a GIFT (Ephesians 2:4-10). So these rewards are in addition to salvation. This "hall of faith" in Hebrews 11 was meant to refresh them from their discouragement when they were under heavy persecution. |