Hebrews 11:2
For by it the elders obtained a good report.
Hebrews 11:2 (KJV)
Context
Hebrews 11 is often called the “Hall of Faith” because it highlights the faith of Old Testament men and women. The chapter opens by defining faith in Hebrews 11:1, and verse 2 then serves as a bridge into the examples that follow.
“For by it”
The word “it” points back to faith, the central theme of the chapter. Faith is presented as the essential element of the spiritual life, the means by which believers please God and receive His commendation.
“The elders obtained”
The “elders” are the heroes of faith from the Old Testament—Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and others. They are the men and women who demonstrated remarkable trust in God throughout their lives, and their examples are detailed in the following verses of Hebrews 11.
“A good report”
The phrase “a good report” can also be translated as “were commended” or “gained approval.” It means these elders received a good testimony from God; they were approved by Him for their faith. Their trust and obedience were recognized and acknowledged by God, and they received His commendation.
Meaning
Faith is the means by which the elders obtained a good report. They were not approved because of their own perfection, but because they trusted God and acted on that trust. This verse emphasizes that divine approval comes through faith, not through human achievement or the praise of others.
The good report they received was ultimately from God. They were chosen, justified, accepted, and counted as friends of God because of their faith. Their lives also bore witness before men, both good and evil, through their faith, holiness, and good works.
Biblical connections
The examples that follow in Hebrews 11 show what this faith looked like in practice. Abel offered a more excellent sacrifice, Enoch pleased God, Noah built the ark, Abraham obeyed and left his homeland, and Moses chose to suffer with the people of God. Each of these actions flowed from faith in God’s promises.
Application
Embrace faith: Hebrews 11:2 reminds believers of the vital role faith plays in their relationship with God. It encourages them to trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances are challenging.
Seek God’s approval: Instead of seeking recognition from others, believers should strive to please God. Just as the elders obtained a good report through faith, believers should seek God’s commendation by living a life of faithfulness.
Draw inspiration from the Old Testament examples: The lives of these elders provide encouragement and guidance for believers today. Studying their faith can strengthen our own trust in God and help us live in a way that pleases Him.
Reflection
Faith is not merely intellectual agreement; it is trust that shapes how we live. The elders’ good report came because they believed God and acted on that belief. Their example calls us to examine our own lives: Are we living by faith, seeking God’s approval above all else?
