Sermons on Hebrews 11:23

Hebrews 11:23 Interpretation:

Faith in Action: Trusting God's Plan Like Jochebed (North Pointe Church) offers a unique interpretation of Hebrews 11:23 by framing Jochebed’s actions through a five-fold lens: deliver, release, inspire, value, and empower. The sermon draws a detailed analogy between Jochebed’s basket for Moses and Noah’s ark, noting that both were sealed with pitch and tar, and suggesting that Jochebed’s knowledge of God’s deliverance through Noah inspired her faith-driven actions. The preacher also uses the metaphor of “open-handed parenting,” emphasizing that true faith means releasing control and trusting God with the outcome, not just for mothers but for all believers. The sermon further personalizes the passage by connecting the “no ordinary child” phrase to the unique value and purpose God places on every individual, not just Moses.

Trusting God's Plan: The Early Life of Moses (David Guzik) interprets Hebrews 11:23 as a deliberate act of faith that went beyond natural parental instinct, highlighting that Moses’ parents’ defiance of Pharaoh’s edict was rooted in their trust in God rather than mere emotion. Guzik uniquely points out that Jochebed’s act of placing Moses in the river technically fulfilled Pharaoh’s command, but in a subversive, faith-filled way—she obeyed the letter but not the spirit of the law. He also draws a parallel between Moses’ relinquishment and the broader theme of parental faith, emphasizing the necessity of “letting go” and trusting God with one’s children, and uses the image of a radio-controlled boat to illustrate the lack of control Jochebed had, underscoring the depth of her faith.

Portraits of Faith: Trusting God's Promises Through Trials (Alistair Begg) interprets Hebrews 11:23 as a “portrait” in a gallery of faith, focusing on the faith of Moses’ parents rather than Moses himself. Begg’s analogy of a “gallery wall” of faith heroes is distinctive, inviting listeners to “pause before the painting” of Jochebed and Amram hiding Moses. He highlights the “stamp of something” on Moses that led his parents to defy the king’s edict, and he underscores the importance of establishing a faith-filled environment for children. Begg’s approach is more observational, encouraging listeners to “rest” in God’s mysterious providence, likening the story to a tapestry of divine details—baskets, cupboards, bullrushes, and family dynamics—all woven together by God’s hand.

Faith: Burning Bridges to Embrace God's Promises (Desiring God) provides a novel interpretive angle by distinguishing between two types of fear in Hebrews 11:23: fear for the child and fear for oneself. The sermon argues that Moses' parents were afraid for their child's safety (thus hiding him) but not for their own lives, which is why their act is described as "not fearing the king's edict." This nuanced reading resolves the apparent contradiction between hiding the child (which seems motivated by fear) and the text's claim that they were not afraid. The sermon further draws a parallel between the parents' faith and Moses' later actions, emphasizing that faith is not the absence of all fear but the refusal to let fear for oneself dictate one's actions. The analogy of "burning bridges" is used to describe the irreversible commitment of faith—once the bridge to safety or compromise is burned, there is no turning back, and one is free to act courageously for God.

Trusting God's Plan in Uncertain Times (The District Church) interprets Hebrews 11:23 as an example of faith that acts in the face of uncertainty and apparent senselessness. The sermon highlights the parents' decision to hide Moses as an act of trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seemed hopeless. It draws a unique analogy between the vulnerability of Moses in the basket and the vulnerability of faith—letting go of control and trusting God with outcomes that cannot be foreseen. The sermon also notes the significance of Moses' name, connecting the act of being "drawn out" of the water to his future role as deliverer, and interprets this as a sign that God's calling is often embedded in one's identity and circumstances, even when those circumstances seem dire.

Hebrews 11:23 Theological Themes:

Faith in Action: Trusting God's Plan Like Jochebed (North Pointe Church) introduces the theme of “open-handed faith,” where true trust in God is demonstrated by releasing control, not just holding on in fear. The sermon also develops the idea that faith is not passive but active—delivering, releasing, inspiring, valuing, and empowering—each a facet of living faith. The preacher adds a nuanced application by connecting the “no ordinary child” to the doctrine of imago Dei, asserting that every child (and person) is uniquely valuable and purposed by God, not just those with obvious destinies.

Trusting God's Plan: The Early Life of Moses (David Guzik) presents the theme that faith sometimes requires subversive obedience—fulfilling the letter of a law while defying its intent for the sake of God’s higher command. Guzik also explores the pain that often accompanies God’s deliverance, teaching that God’s rescue may involve suffering and loss, both for the one delivered and those around them. He further draws a Christological parallel, suggesting that Moses’ rejection by his people prefigures Christ’s rejection, and that true deliverance comes through humility and suffering.

Portraits of Faith: Trusting God's Promises Through Trials (Alistair Begg) introduces the theme of “faith as legacy,” emphasizing the generational impact of parental faith and the importance of spiritual environment. Begg’s “gallery” metaphor encourages believers to draw strength from the faith of others, not by introspection but by observing and emulating the faith of those who have gone before. He also highlights the mysterious, providential orchestration of God, urging listeners to “rest” in God’s sovereignty even when circumstances seem chaotic or contradictory.

Faithful Parenting Amidst Tyranny: Lessons from Moses (SermonIndex.net) introduces the theme of "faithful resistance"—the idea that true faith may require creative, nonviolent subversion of unjust laws, as seen in the parents' decision to technically obey Pharaoh's command (placing Moses in the river) while simultaneously protecting their child through wisdom and faith. The sermon also develops the theme of generational faith, arguing that the faith of parents is foundational for the faith of children, and that spiritual discernment (seeing the "tob" in a child) is a vital aspect of godly parenting. Additionally, it presents the notion that children born in times of crisis may have unique callings and that the devil's attacks on a generation often signal God's intention to use that generation powerfully.

Faith: Burning Bridges to Embrace God's Promises (Desiring God) adds the theme of faith as a value-driven, risk-taking commitment that transcends self-preservation. The sermon emphasizes that faith is not the absence of fear but the refusal to let fear for oneself dictate one's actions. It also introduces the idea that faith "burns bridges" to sin and safety, enabling believers to endure suffering and make costly choices for God. The sermon further explores the concept of faith as "falling in love with the reward"—a deep satisfaction in God's promises that empowers believers to withstand threats and crises.

Trusting God's Plan in Uncertain Times (The District Church) brings a fresh angle by focusing on the hiddenness of God's work in times of suffering and uncertainty. The sermon suggests that faith is not about having certainty in circumstances but about trusting God's unseen plan. It also explores the theme of divine orchestration, where even the actions of those outside the faith (like Pharaoh's daughter) are used by God to fulfill his purposes. The sermon applies this to contemporary experiences of displacement and transience, encouraging believers to find stability in God's presence rather than in external circumstances.

Hebrews 11:23 Historical and Contextual Insights:

Faith in Action: Trusting God's Plan Like Jochebed (North Pointe Church) provides detailed historical context about the Egyptian edict to kill Hebrew boys, describing the Nile as a “dinner bell” for crocodiles and the horror of infanticide as population control. The sermon also notes the cultural significance of tar and pitch, connecting Jochebed’s actions to the ancient story of Noah, and highlights the role of Hebrew women as transmitters of faith and tradition in a hostile environment.

Trusting God's Plan: The Early Life of Moses (David Guzik) offers extensive historical background on the Egyptian empire’s power, the rationale behind Pharaoh’s population control, and the educational and social privileges Moses would have received as a member of the royal household. Guzik references the historian Josephus to describe Moses’ possible status as heir to the throne and his military exploits, and he explains the significance of Moses’ dual identity as both Hebrew and Egyptian. He also details the geography of Midian and the cultural practices of Bedouin life, providing a vivid picture of Moses’ exile.

Portraits of Faith: Trusting God's Promises Through Trials (Alistair Begg) briefly references the cultural practice of infanticide under Pharaoh’s edict and the practical challenges of hiding a baby in ancient Egypt. He also alludes to the family structure and naming conventions of the time, noting the “unfortunate names” of Amram and Jochebed, and the role of older siblings in family survival strategies.

Faithful Parenting Amidst Tyranny: Lessons from Moses (SermonIndex.net) provides extensive historical context about the rise of tyrannical rulers in Egypt, drawing parallels to modern political and social trends. The sermon details the shift from a Pharaoh who respected Joseph to one who "knew not Joseph," marking a change in political climate and the onset of oppression. It discusses the use of midwives as instruments of state policy, the escalation of anti-Israelite measures, and the eventual targeting of families and children. The sermon also references historical examples of eugenics, forced sterilization, and population control in the 20th and 21st centuries (e.g., China’s one-child policy, Nazi Germany, and modern abortion laws), drawing analogies to the biblical context to underscore the recurring nature of such threats. The use of the Hebrew word "tob" is also explained in its ancient context, linking it to creation and divine approval.

Faith: Burning Bridges to Embrace God's Promises (Desiring God) offers contextual insight by highlighting the dual threats faced by Moses' parents: the threat to the child (death by decree) and the threat to the parents (punishment for disobedience). The sermon explains the gravity of Pharaoh's command and the real danger involved in hiding a child, emphasizing the high stakes and the stress experienced by the family. It also notes the literary sophistication of the author of Hebrews, who is portrayed as a masterful interpreter of the Old Testament, aware of the nuances and apparent contradictions in the Exodus narrative.

Trusting God's Plan in Uncertain Times (The District Church) situates the story of Moses within the broader context of Israelite oppression, genocide, and the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The sermon describes the emotional and social turmoil of the time, the significance of the Levite lineage, and the role of women (midwives, Moses' mother, and sister) in resisting oppression. It also explains the cultural practice of naming and its prophetic significance, as well as the experience of displacement and exile, drawing parallels to contemporary urban life.

Hebrews 11:23 Cross-References in the Bible:

Faith in Action: Trusting God's Plan Like Jochebed (North Pointe Church) references several passages: Exodus 2 (the original story of Moses’ birth and rescue), Genesis (the story of Joseph and Noah), Psalms 34:17-18 (God delivers the righteous), Matthew 22:37-38 (the greatest commandment), John 4:8 (drawing near to God), 1 Samuel 1:11 (Hannah dedicating Samuel), Acts 5:29 (obeying God rather than men), 1 Timothy 4:12 (not despising youth), Ephesians 5:1-2 (imitating God), Philippians 2:5 (having the mind of Christ), Matthew 28:19-20 (the Great Commission), Acts 1:8 (receiving power from the Holy Spirit), Psalms 139:13-16 (being fearfully and wonderfully made), Matthew 10:31 (value before God), Romans 8:37 (more than conquerors), 1 Corinthians 15:57 (victory through Christ), and 2 Corinthians 4:18 (eternal perspective). Each reference is used to reinforce the themes of deliverance, value, faith, and empowerment, drawing parallels between Jochebed’s actions and broader biblical principles of faith and obedience.

Trusting God's Plan: The Early Life of Moses (David Guzik) cross-references Exodus 2 (the narrative base), Hebrews 11:23-26 (the faith of Moses’ parents and Moses’ own faith), Acts 7:22-25 (Stephen’s retelling of Moses’ story), and Psalms 34:17-18 (God’s deliverance). Guzik uses these passages to illuminate the motivations and faith of Moses’ parents, Moses’ identity crisis, and the typological connection between Moses and Christ. He also references the story of the prodigal son and the broader narrative arc of the Exodus, drawing out the theme of deliverance through suffering.

Portraits of Faith: Trusting God's Promises Through Trials (Alistair Begg) references Hebrews 11:23 (the faith of Moses’ parents), Exodus 2 (the hiding and rescue of Moses), and Genesis 22, 27, 48, and 50 (the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph). Begg uses these cross-references to situate Moses’ story within the larger “gallery” of faith, emphasizing the continuity of God’s promises and the importance of generational faithfulness.

Faithful Parenting Amidst Tyranny: Lessons from Moses (SermonIndex.net) references several biblical passages to expand on Hebrews 11:23. It cites Exodus 1–2 for the narrative context, 1 Chronicles 6 and Exodus 6:20 for the names of Moses' parents, and Acts 7:20, which describes Moses as "exceeding fair" and nourished in his father's house. The sermon also references Genesis 1 (the use of "tob" in creation), Acts 4:18 and 5:29 (the apostles' refusal to obey unjust commands), and the stories of Samson, Samuel, and John the Baptist to illustrate the pattern of God raising up special children in times of crisis. These references are used to support the idea that faith-driven resistance and discernment are recurring biblical themes, and that God's purposes often unfold through the faith of parents and the unique calling of children.

Faith: Burning Bridges to Embrace God's Promises (Desiring God) cross-references Exodus 1:22 (Pharaoh's decree), Exodus 2:14–15 (Moses' fear and flight), and Hebrews 11:24–27 (Moses' choices by faith). The sermon uses these passages to draw parallels between the experiences of Moses' parents and Moses himself, highlighting the continuity of faith and the importance of value-driven decisions. The references to "the reward" (Hebrews 11:26) and "seeing him who is unseen" (Hebrews 11:27) are used to underscore the motivational power of faith in God's promises.

Trusting God's Plan in Uncertain Times (The District Church) references Exodus 2 (the birth and rescue of Moses), Hebrews 11:23 (the parents' faith), and Romans (the simplicity of salvation by faith). The sermon also alludes to the stories of the Hebrew midwives (Exodus 1), Miriam's later role as a leader, and the broader narrative of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These references are used to illustrate the themes of divine orchestration, covenant faithfulness, and the hiddenness of God's work in times of suffering.

Hebrews 11:23 Illustrations from Secular Sources:

Faith in Action: Trusting God's Plan Like Jochebed (North Pointe Church) uses several secular analogies and personal stories to illustrate Hebrews 11:23. The preacher recounts a childhood prank involving a “loogie” on the playground to highlight the difference between childish mischief and the foundation of faith instilled by parents. He also uses the metaphor of “open-handed parenting,” referencing advice from his mother-in-law about parenting with an open hand so that children can “fly away and come back to the nest,” likening it to releasing children to God’s care. The sermon includes anecdotes about sending children to college and the emotional challenges of “letting go,” drawing parallels to Jochebed’s release of Moses. The preacher also references the family’s acquisition of pets (a chihuahua and sheep) as coping mechanisms for empty-nest syndrome, humorously connecting these to the theme of release and trust. Additionally, the sermon uses the image of a “buffet for the Nile crocodiles” to vividly convey the danger Moses faced, and the “A-Team dress-up set” as a childhood memory to illustrate the power of parental words and faith declarations.

Portraits of Faith: Trusting God's Promises Through Trials (Alistair Begg) employs the metaphor of a “gallery wall” of family portraits to frame the stories of faith in Hebrews 11, inviting listeners to imagine themselves on a field trip through a museum of faith. He humorously references “snotty kids at the back” of the bus and the experience of school field trips to make the biblical narrative more relatable. Begg also uses the imagery of “lying awake in bed worrying” versus “lying on the floor and resting” to encourage trust in God’s providence, and he describes the physical features of Jacob as an “old man with a weak frame” to bring the biblical characters to life.

Faithful Parenting Amidst Tyranny: Lessons from Moses (SermonIndex.net) draws extensively on secular history and contemporary events to illustrate the relevance of Hebrews 11:23. The sermon references the rise of tyrannical regimes in the 20th century, including Nazi Germany, Stalinist Russia, and Maoist China, to draw parallels with the biblical account of Pharaoh's oppression. It discusses the use of eugenics, forced sterilization, and population control policies (e.g., China's one-child policy, American Indian sterilization, and abortion statistics in the US, Europe, and New Zealand) as modern analogues to Pharaoh's decree. The sermon also mentions Klaus Schwab and the World Economic Forum, the push for digitalization and gene editing, and the economic and political shifts during the COVID-19 pandemic as examples of rising governmental control and threats to life. These illustrations are used to argue that the challenges faced by Moses' parents are not confined to ancient history but are mirrored in contemporary struggles over the sanctity of life, parental rights, and resistance to unjust authority. The sermon also references the psychological and physiological response to seeing a baby (release of chemicals that evoke compassion), using this as an explanation for Pharaoh's daughter's reaction to Moses.