What is the meaning of Hebrews 11:14? Now • The word places us squarely in the flow of Hebrews 11, the “Hall of Faith.” • It links back to verses 13-13, where Abraham and the patriarchs “confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth” (Hebrews 11:13). • Like a spotlight, “Now” focuses our attention on the immediate implication of their confession, inviting us to pause and consider what comes next. those who say such things • “Such things” refers to the faith-filled declarations of verses 13-13: acknowledging pilgrim status, refusing to settle for earthly security, admitting dependence on God. • Scripture consistently honors believers who speak out of faith rather than sight—see 2 Corinthians 4:13 and Romans 10:10. • Words matter; Jesus said, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). These patriarchs vocalized their hope, proving its reality. show that • Their testimony is evidence, not conjecture. • Faith is invisible, yet it produces visible markers—actions and words—just as James 2:18 notes: “I will show you my faith by my deeds.” • The phrase underscores accountability: what we profess publicly unveils our true allegiance (Luke 9:26; Revelation 12:11). they are seeking • “Seeking” is an ongoing pursuit, not a casual interest (see Colossians 3:1-2, “Set your minds on things above”). • It signals deliberate priority shifts: – Valuing eternal promises over temporary comfort (Matthew 6:19-21). – Pressing forward in hope even when promises seem distant (Romans 8:24-25). • Their search is active, hungry, and expectant, mirroring the attitude of David: “Your face, LORD, I will seek” (Psalm 27:8). a country of their own • Not an earthly homeland but “a better country—a heavenly one” (Hebrews 11:16). • Jesus prepared it: “In My Father’s house are many rooms” (John 14:2-3). • This homeland is: – Permanent—unlike tents in Canaan (2 Corinthians 5:1). – Holy—free from sin, sorrow, and death (Revelation 21:3-4). – Familial—where God is “not ashamed to be called their God” (Hebrews 11:16). • Believers today join the same quest (Philippians 3:20; 1 Peter 2:11). summary Hebrews 11:14 reveals that the patriarchs’ spoken faith exposed their true longing: a heavenly homeland crafted by God. Their words proved an active, enduring search for something better than earth could offer. Their example urges us to speak, live, and long likewise, fixing our hope on the eternal country God has prepared for all who trust Him. |
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