These studies do not tell you what the Bible says. The scriptures given direct you to specific topics. The questions are intended to help you focus on the study. No answers are given. You have to read and search the scriptures for the answers. We encourage you to use Bible helps such as concordances and commentaries. However, scholars and theologians often disagree on interpretation and application. The best study help comes from God. Pray. Allow yourself to be honest with your reactions, but don't jump to conclusions. It takes time to read and meditate on all the Bible says on various topics. Feel free to ask questions in your prayers. You will be amazed to discover that God does answer the sincere seeker. You will also be surprised that the Bible may not say what you might think it does on many subjects. Keep a notebook. A loose leaf one would make it possible to add thoughts and additional information as you learn more about different subjects. Welcome to an exciting search.  

Bible Study Guide:

By Faith

By Scarlett Stough

To prepare for this Bible study, please read the women in Christ commentary, So Great a Cloud of Witnesses

The Example of So Great a Cloud of Witnesses

 1. Colossians 1:27; Hebrews 10:23; Hebrews 11: 1, 6, 11; Philippians 1:6 What is our hope as Christians? How can we be sure and certain that this hope will be achieved? Define or describe faith in your words as you understand these scriptures to mean.

2. Read Hebrews 11. Make a three-column chart with the following headings (or the headings of your choice): (1) Name or Who (2) Result of faith (3) Personal Application, such as: 

• Verse 2. (1) The ancients (2) commended for being sure and certain for what they hoped, but did not see (3) Our reward is not in this life.
• Verse 3. (1). We (believers in Christ) (2) gain understanding about God and the origin of the visible creation (3) Since I believe in God, I see the evidence for creation and the existence and nature of God in the natural world.
• Verse 4. (1) Abel (2)offered a better sacrifice and still speaks to us today (3) Abel’s faith made him righteous in God’s eyes and led him to make a better sacrifice than his brother.

 Continue the list and meditate on what these examples mean to you.

 3. Hebrews 11:13, 39-40; II Peter 3:9; Hebrew 2:10 In spite of their faith, they died without receiving what God promised. Why not? Why is this relevant and important for you?

 4. Hebrews 10:32-39; 12:1 What result does faith have in the lives of those who live by faith?

 5. II Corinthians 4:13-5:1-10; Hebrews 12:2-12; I Peter 1:3-9; II Peter 1:1-21 What resources does God give us to strengthen our faith in his faithfulness? What is our responsibility in sustaining the faith to persevere through every circumstance of our lives?