What does "God is not ashamed to be called their God" mean for believers? The Heart of Hebrews 11:16 “But they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” (Hebrews 11:16) At the close of the great “faith chapter,” the Spirit lifts the curtain on God’s own attitude toward those who trust Him: He gladly claims them. He is not embarrassed or reluctant; He delights to say, “They are Mine.” What “Not Ashamed” Conveys • Absolute acceptance—God publicly identifies with His people. • Familial pride—He speaks of them the way a father beams over his children (Isaiah 49:15). • Covenant faithfulness—He honors promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 17:7; Exodus 3:6). • Royal endorsement—He throws His name and reputation behind those who heed His word (Numbers 6:27). Why God Was Pleased with the Patriarchs • They believed unseen promises (Hebrews 11:1). • They lived as foreigners on earth, refusing to settle for less than what God had pledged (Hebrews 11:9–10). • They embraced a heavenly homeland, valuing eternity over comfort (Hebrews 11:13–15). Because of that posture of faith, God prepared “a city” for them—New Jerusalem—demonstrating His joy in rewarding steadfast trust (Revelation 21:2–3). What This Means for Believers Today • The same welcome—All who trust Christ share the patriarchs’ standing; God is equally unashamed to call us His (Galatians 3:7). • Unshakeable identity—Our worth is anchored in being called “My people” by the Lord of glory (1 Peter 2:9–10). • Motivation for holiness—Knowing He proudly owns us fuels a desire to live in ways befitting His name (Titus 2:11–14). • Confidence in suffering—Even when the world shames believers, God’s approval overrules every earthly verdict (Romans 8:31–39). Confirming Truths in the Rest of Scripture • Exodus 3:6: “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” God freely attaches His name to theirs. • Matthew 22:32: Jesus quotes the same words, proving that God still claims them long after their earthly lives ended. • Psalm 16:3: “As for the saints in the land, they are the glorious ones in whom all My delight is found.” • 2 Timothy 2:19: “The Lord knows those who are His.” His intimate knowledge equals ownership. • Revelation 3:12: He writes His name on overcomers, a permanent mark of association. Living in a Way That Honors Our God • Adopt a pilgrim mindset—hold possessions loosely, citizenship in heaven tightly (Philippians 3:20). • Cultivate obedient faith—take God at His word even when fulfillment seems distant. • Display distinct values—let choices reveal hope anchored beyond this world (Colossians 3:1–4). • Reflect His character—since He is not ashamed of us, we refuse to be ashamed of Him or His gospel (Romans 1:16). God’s open declaration, “I am their God,” transforms the believer’s identity, security, and mission. The One who reigns unashamedly puts His name on us; by His grace we walk in ways that honor the Name we bear. |
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