Reply To: Grace And Faith 2024/2025 Discussion Board 1

[Aanuoluwa Babalola]

Hebrews 11:39 presents a sort of paradox: “These all, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise.” And we have learnt that faith always produces results. That might make the scripture above look like a contradiction on the surface level.

Yet this isn’t a contradiction but a deeper insight into the nature of God’s plan. The “promise” they didn’t receive refers to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ—the full revelation of the New Covenant and salvation. While they saw many results of their faith in their lifetimes, the complete culmination of God’s ultimate promise was yet to come.

This actually strengthens the idea that faith is powerful and always produces results. It shows that faith isn’t limited to immediate outcomes. It extends to trusting God for future, unseen realities. The unwavering belief of these Old Testament saints, even without witnessing the full scope of God’s plan, exemplifies a profound level of supernatural faith. Their lives demonstrate that faith delivers results, both in the present and in patiently waiting for God’s perfect timing and ultimate purpose.

Their faith, though powerful enough to conquer kingdoms and endure torture, was still exercised in anticipation of a greater, yet-to-be-revealed salvation. They lived and died believing in a coming Deliverer, a perfect sacrifice, and a new and better covenant. It expands our perception of faith beyond immediate gratification and present-day results.