The pages of Scripture are filled with stories of great
heroes—men and women whom God used in unique and powerful ways to accomplish
His purposes. Their exploits vary greatly, yet the common thread that runs
through all of their testimonies is faith.
Even though the word hero does not occur in the New
Testament, believers often refer to the biblical saints (such as those listed
in Hebrews 11) as the “heroes of the faith.” They are regarded as heroes for
two primary reasons: they believed in the Lord, not just for salvation but for
every aspect of life; and they acted on that faith, choosing to honor Him even
when it was difficult to do so. When their circumstances seemed impossible,
they depended on God’s wisdom and strength rather than their own. And they kept
their eyes on Him, choosing to trust in His promises rather than pursue the
passing pleasures of sin.
Thus, they were known both for their faith and their
faithfulness—and God was honored through them. From the world’s perspective,
most of them were not especially noble, strong, or wise. They had quirks,
flaws, and shortcomings. But through the power of God, they were used in mighty
ways to accomplish His purposes and bring Him glory.
We have much to learn from the legacy left to us by the
heroes of the faith. They are the great “cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1)
that has gone before us. As we study their lives, their testimonies encourage
us to respond to trials with steadfast faith and to fight against temptation
with uncompromising faithfulness. Their circumstances were often far different
from our own, and yet the God-centered principles and priorities that governed
their lives are applicable to us as well.
--- John F. MacArthur, Twelve Unlikely Heroes: How God
Commissioned Unexpected People in the Bible and What He Wants to Do with You.
2014.
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