This is whyThe phrase "This is why" refers back to the preceding verse, which discusses faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. It sets the stage for understanding that faith is the foundation for the commendation of the ancients. This concept of faith is central to the entire chapter, which is often referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame."
the ancients
The "ancients" refers to the Old Testament figures who lived by faith. These include Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and others mentioned later in the chapter. These individuals are examples of living by faith before the coming of Christ. Their lives are documented in the Hebrew Scriptures, providing a historical and spiritual lineage for the early Christian audience, who would have been familiar with these stories.
were commended
The ancients were "commended" for their faith, meaning they received approval or praise from God. This commendation is not based on their works or adherence to the law but on their faith, which aligns with the broader biblical theme that righteousness comes through faith. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Romans 4:3, where Abraham's faith is credited to him as righteousness. The commendation of the ancients serves as a testament to the enduring nature of faith and its importance in the relationship between God and humanity.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The EldersRefers to the patriarchs and matriarchs of the faith, such as Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and others mentioned in
Hebrews 11. These individuals are commended for their faith and serve as examples for believers.
2.
FaithThe central theme of
Hebrews 11, described as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. It is by faith that the elders received commendation from God.
3.
CommendationThe "good report" or testimony that the elders received from God due to their faith. This commendation is not just a human acknowledgment but a divine approval.
Teaching Points
Faith as the FoundationFaith is the foundation upon which believers build their relationship with God. It is through faith that we receive God's commendation, just as the elders did.
Living by FaithThe lives of the elders demonstrate that faith is not passive but active. Believers are called to live out their faith in tangible ways, trusting in God's promises even when they are not yet visible.
Divine ApprovalTrue commendation comes from God, not from human accolades. Our focus should be on living a life that pleases God, seeking His approval above all else.
Legacy of FaithThe elders left a legacy of faith that continues to inspire believers today. We are encouraged to consider the impact of our faith on future generations.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Hebrews 11:2?
2. How does Hebrews 11:2 inspire us to live by faith today?
3. What does "commendation" in Hebrews 11:2 teach about God's approval of faith?
4. How can we emulate the faith of the "ancients" mentioned in Hebrews 11:2?
5. How does Hebrews 11:2 connect with other biblical examples of faith?
6. In what ways can Hebrews 11:2 strengthen our daily walk with God?
7. How does Hebrews 11:2 define faith in the context of biblical history?
8. Why is the testimony of the ancients significant in Hebrews 11:2?
9. What does Hebrews 11:2 suggest about the role of faith in receiving God's approval?
10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Hebrews 11?
11. Where did the taken one go?
12. What is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable?
13. Is keeping secrets aligned with biblical teachings?
14. Who was Uriah the Hittite in the Bible?What Does Hebrews 11:2 Mean
ThisThe single word points back to the definition of faith in Hebrews 11:1—“Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see”. The writer anchors the entire chapter on that truth. Faith, not human effort, explains every victory recounted in Scripture (Ephesians 2:8-9; 2 Corinthians 5:7; John 20:29).
is whyHere the author draws a straight line from faith to divine approval.
• Faith recognizes God’s character (Hebrews 10:38)
• Faith relies on God’s promises (Romans 1:17)
• Faith looks to Jesus as “the Author and Perfecter” (Hebrews 12:2)
• Faith receives “the outcome… the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 1:8-9)
Because faith does all of that, it is the reason—“why”—God acknowledges His people.
the ancientsThese are the men and women who lived before Christ yet trusted God’s word:
• Abel, Enoch, Noah (Hebrews 11:4-7)
• Abraham and Sarah (11:8-12)
• Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, and many more (11:20-32)
They span centuries but share one distinguishing mark: faith. God calls Himself “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” (Matthew 22:32; Exodus 3:6), underscoring the continuity of faith across generations.
were commendedTo be commended means God Himself bore witness to their trust. He declared them righteous—“Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6). Their deeds flowed from belief, but belief came first (Psalm 106:31; Luke 1:6). God still “works in you what is pleasing in His sight” (Hebrews 13:21), so the pattern remains: faith leads to divine approval, which then produces obedient action.
summaryHebrews 11:2 reminds us that faith, defined in verse 1, is the very reason God approved the Old Testament saints. Their stories prove that trusting God’s unseen promises brings His commendation. That same faith, fixed on Christ today, invites the same approval and empowers a life that honors Him.
(2)
For by it.--Better,
For therein the elders had witness borne to them. The connection seems to be this: Faith truly accomplishes all this; for it was in the exercise of such a faith that the elders gained the witness which the Scripture bears (see
Hebrews 11:4-5;
Hebrews 11:39) to them and to their noble deeds. This verse, then, is added to confirm the first.
Verse 2. -
For in this (
i.e. faith,
ἐν ταύτῃ)
the elders obtained a good report; literally
were witnessed of;
i.e. it was in respect of their faith, which inspired their deeds, that they were praised. (For a similar use of the preposition
ἐν, cf.
1 Corinthians 11:22,
ἐπαινέσω ἐν,
τούτῳ). Thus is introduced the illustrative review of Old Testament instances, the purpose of which has been explained above. It begins from the beginning, Abel being the first example. But in the Old Testament the account of the creation precedes that first recorded instance; and, therefore, it is in the first place fittingly referred to, the existence of an unseen creative power mentally perceived beyond things visible, being the primary article - the very foundation - of all religious faith (cf. below, ver. 6).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
This is whyταύτῃ (tautē)Demonstrative Pronoun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it. theοἱ (hoi)Article - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.ancientsπρεσβύτεροι (presbyteroi)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 4245: Comparative of presbus; older; as noun, a senior; specially, an Israelite Sanhedrist or Christian 'presbyter'.were commended.ἐμαρτυρήθησαν (emartyrēthēsan)Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 3140: To witness, bear witness, give evidence, testify, give a good report. From martus; to be a witness, i.e. Testify.
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NT Letters: Hebrews 11:2 For by this the elders obtained testimony (Heb. He. Hb) 
