Hebrews 11:2 NASB
For by it the people of old gained approval.
Our first Greek word ("gar" - G1036- and translated "for") is used here to reinforce the validity of the statement, so an alternate translation choice might be "assuredly."
Next, "by it" refers to "faith" mentioned in the previous verse. So by faith...
Next, "the people of old" translates "elders" or forefathers. Here the context solves the dilemma, the old testament saints are in view, thus "believers of the old testament" might be a better understanding.
Next, "gained approval" translates "martyreō" G3140) which is a passive verb indicating a "good testimony" was bestowed upon them. God credited their faith as righteousness.
Of course this is obviously true concerning Abraham, but what about the others listed in the chapter?
The common threads are that each trusted in the validity of God future promises, even in the face of present unlikely circumstances, or God demonstrated His acceptance of the person's faith.
Able over Cain.
Enoch was taken up.
Noah and family over the others
Sarah's faith even in light of her age.
Isaac trusted in the future fulfillment of God's promises.
Joseph trusted in the promise of the "promised land."
Moses certainly had God's acceptance as demonstrated with miracle after miracle.
Joshua trusted the land would be given into his hand, even by blowing a horn.
Rahab trusted in God at the risk of her life.
What more shall we say?
Assuredly by faith the believers of the old testament had their faith credited as righteousness as demonstrated by God's confirming actions.
For by it the people of old gained approval.
Our first Greek word ("gar" - G1036- and translated "for") is used here to reinforce the validity of the statement, so an alternate translation choice might be "assuredly."
Next, "by it" refers to "faith" mentioned in the previous verse. So by faith...
Next, "the people of old" translates "elders" or forefathers. Here the context solves the dilemma, the old testament saints are in view, thus "believers of the old testament" might be a better understanding.
Next, "gained approval" translates "martyreō" G3140) which is a passive verb indicating a "good testimony" was bestowed upon them. God credited their faith as righteousness.
Of course this is obviously true concerning Abraham, but what about the others listed in the chapter?
The common threads are that each trusted in the validity of God future promises, even in the face of present unlikely circumstances, or God demonstrated His acceptance of the person's faith.
Able over Cain.
Enoch was taken up.
Noah and family over the others
Sarah's faith even in light of her age.
Isaac trusted in the future fulfillment of God's promises.
Joseph trusted in the promise of the "promised land."
Moses certainly had God's acceptance as demonstrated with miracle after miracle.
Joshua trusted the land would be given into his hand, even by blowing a horn.
Rahab trusted in God at the risk of her life.
What more shall we say?
Assuredly by faith the believers of the old testament had their faith credited as righteousness as demonstrated by God's confirming actions.
