Walking with God: Lessons from Enoch's Faith
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, saints. Today, we delved into the life of Enoch, a figure shrouded in mystery but rich in lessons of faith. Enoch's story, though brief in the Bible, offers profound insights into what it means to walk with God. We began by discussing the significance of faith, not as a magical force but as a steadfast commitment to God, even amidst doubts and uncertainties. Faith is not about creating a trouble-free life but about acting as if God is real and staying faithful despite challenges.
We explored the context of Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Hall of Faith," and how it serves as an antidote to spiritual bankruptcy. The chapter encourages us to keep going, to hold firmly to our faith, and to look to the examples of those who have gone before us. These heroes of faith, including Enoch, acted on their belief in God, often at great personal cost.
Enoch's life teaches us that faith is about walking with God in the everyday moments, not just in the extraordinary ones. His walk with God was marked by integrity and a counter-cultural stance in a deteriorating world. This walk pleased God, and it is something we can all aspire to, regardless of our circumstances.
We also touched on the importance of understanding the broader context of Hebrews, especially the looming persecution faced by early Christians. This context helps us appreciate the depth of faith required to stay committed to Jesus, even when it meant losing everything.
In conclusion, we are called to be earnest seekers of God, focusing on our walk with Him rather than the outcomes. By faith, we can endure hardships, stay the course, and ultimately, be part of that great cloud of witnesses cheering on future generations.
### Key Takeaways
1. Faith is Not a Magical Force: Faith is not about speaking things into existence or creating a trouble-free life. It is about acting as if God is real and staying faithful despite challenges and doubts. This kind of faith is characterized by long obedience in the same direction, even when the road is tough. [49:53]
2. Context of Hebrews 11: Understanding the broader context of Hebrews, especially the persecution faced by early Christians, helps us appreciate the depth of faith required to stay committed to Jesus. This chapter serves as an antidote to spiritual bankruptcy, encouraging us to keep going and hold firmly to our faith. [01:01:06]
3. Enoch's Walk with God: Enoch's life teaches us that faith is about walking with God in the everyday moments, marked by integrity and a counter-cultural stance. His walk pleased God, and it is something we can all aspire to, regardless of our circumstances. [01:09:55]
4. Faith Amidst Adversity: The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 acted on their belief in God, often at great personal cost. Their stories remind us that faith is not about avoiding hardships but enduring them with the hope of better and lasting possessions. [01:00:04]
5. Encouragement from the Cloud of Witnesses: We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us, enduring hardships and staying faithful. Their examples encourage us to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and to keep walking with God. [01:04:48]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[37:52] - Introduction to Enoch
[38:57] - The Book of Enoch
[39:45] - Rich Mullins and Faith
[42:04] - Rich Mullins' Legacy
[42:57] - Enoch in Hebrews 11
[43:51] - Enoch in Genesis 5
[45:26] - Enoch's Family and Life
[46:24] - Enoch's Walk with God
[47:09] - The Mystery of Enoch's Departure
[47:59] - Faith and Doubt
[49:53] - Misconceptions About Faith
[51:48] - Faith in Action
[52:37] - Faith vs. Doubt
[54:32] - The Reality of Doubt
[55:09] - Heroes of Faith and Their Flaws
[56:34] - Personal Journey of Faith
[57:47] - Context of Hebrews
[01:00:04] - Persecution and Faith
[01:01:06] - Spiritual Bankruptcy
[01:01:52] - Jewish Christians and Persecution
[01:02:33] - The Reality of Faith
[01:03:32] - Encouragement to Keep Going
[01:04:48] - The Great Cloud of Witnesses
[01:05:18] - Jesus, the Ultimate Hero of Faith
[01:06:29] - Modern-Day Heroes of Faith
[01:07:20] - Enoch's Encouragement
[01:08:11] - The Lesson from Enoch
[01:09:25] - Enoch's Intense Walk with God
[01:10:40] - Walking with God in Everyday Life
[01:11:21] - The Bookends of Hebrews 11
[01:12:27] - Faith as a Rowboat
[01:13:26] - Future Generations and Faith
[01:14:10] - Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
[01:14:55] - By Faith Examples
[01:17:12] - Faith in Action at Evolve Church
[01:19:18] - Jesus' Encouragement
[01:20:36] - Living by Faith
[01:21:24] - Invitation to Faith
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 11:5-6 (NIV) - "By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: 'He could not be found, because God had taken him away.' For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
2. Genesis 5:21-24 (NIV) - "When Enoch had lived 65 years, he became the father of Methuselah. After he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked faithfully with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters. Altogether, Enoch lived a total of 365 years. Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Hebrews 11:5-6 tell us about Enoch's faith and his relationship with God?
2. According to Genesis 5:21-24, how long did Enoch walk with God, and what was the outcome of his walk?
3. In the sermon, what was highlighted as the key characteristic of Enoch's walk with God? [46:24]
4. How does the broader context of Hebrews 11 help us understand the significance of Enoch's faith? [01:01:06]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to "walk with God" in the context of Enoch's life, and how can this be applied to our daily lives? [46:24]
2. How does understanding the persecution faced by early Christians in Hebrews 11 deepen our appreciation for the faith of the heroes mentioned, including Enoch? [01:00:04]
3. The sermon mentioned that faith is not a magical force but a steadfast commitment to God. How does this perspective change the way we view our own faith journeys? [49:53]
4. What can we learn from the "great cloud of witnesses" mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 about enduring hardships and staying faithful? [01:04:48]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life. Are there everyday moments where you can be more intentional about walking with God? What steps can you take to make this a reality? [46:24]
2. Have you ever faced doubts or uncertainties in your faith journey? How can Enoch's example of steadfast faith amidst a deteriorating world encourage you to stay committed? [49:53]
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of understanding the broader context of Hebrews, especially the persecution faced by early Christians. How can this historical perspective help you in dealing with your own challenges today? [01:00:04]
4. Think about a time when you felt spiritually bankrupt or discouraged. How can the examples of faith in Hebrews 11 inspire you to keep going and hold firmly to your faith? [01:01:06]
5. The sermon mentioned that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us. How can you draw encouragement from their examples to keep your eyes on Jesus and continue your walk with God? [01:04:48]
6. Enoch's walk with God was marked by integrity and a counter-cultural stance. Are there areas in your life where you need to take a stand for your faith, even if it goes against the cultural norms? [46:24]
7. How can you be an earnest seeker of God, focusing on your walk with Him rather than the outcomes? What practical steps can you take this week to deepen your relationship with God? [01:08:46]
Devotional
Day 1: Faith as a Steadfast Commitment
Faith is not about speaking things into existence or creating a trouble-free life. It is about acting as if God is real and staying faithful despite challenges and doubts. This kind of faith is characterized by long obedience in the same direction, even when the road is tough. Faith is not a magical force that eliminates difficulties but a steadfast commitment to God, even amidst uncertainties. It involves trusting God’s presence and promises, even when they are not immediately visible or understandable. This kind of faith is about enduring and persevering, knowing that God is with us in every step we take.
[49:53]
Hebrews 11:1-2 (ESV): "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation."
Reflection: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you act today as if God is real and present in that situation, even if you don't see immediate results?
Day 2: The Depth of Faith in Persecution
Understanding the broader context of Hebrews, especially the persecution faced by early Christians, helps us appreciate the depth of faith required to stay committed to Jesus. This chapter serves as an antidote to spiritual bankruptcy, encouraging us to keep going and hold firmly to our faith. The early Christians faced immense trials and persecution, yet they remained steadfast in their faith. Their example teaches us that faith is not about avoiding hardships but enduring them with the hope of better and lasting possessions. This kind of faith requires a deep trust in God’s promises and a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of Christ.
[01:01:06]
Hebrews 10:32-34 (ESV): "But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you faced opposition or hardship because of your faith. How did you respond, and what can you learn from the early Christians' example to strengthen your faith today?
Day 3: Walking with God in Everyday Moments
Enoch's life teaches us that faith is about walking with God in the everyday moments, marked by integrity and a counter-cultural stance. His walk pleased God, and it is something we can all aspire to, regardless of our circumstances. Enoch’s walk with God was not about grand gestures but about consistent, daily fellowship with Him. This kind of walk requires integrity, a commitment to live according to God’s ways, and a willingness to stand against the cultural norms that contradict God’s principles. Enoch’s example shows us that a life of faith is built in the ordinary, everyday moments of obedience and trust in God.
[01:09:55]
Genesis 5:22-24 (ESV): "Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him."
Reflection: Consider your daily routine. What are some practical ways you can walk with God in your everyday moments, demonstrating integrity and a counter-cultural stance?
Day 4: Faith Amidst Adversity
The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 acted on their belief in God, often at great personal cost. Their stories remind us that faith is not about avoiding hardships but enduring them with the hope of better and lasting possessions. These heroes faced immense challenges, yet they remained faithful to God, trusting in His promises. Their lives were marked by a willingness to sacrifice and endure suffering for the sake of their faith. This kind of faith requires a deep trust in God’s goodness and a hope that transcends present circumstances. It is about holding on to God’s promises, even when the path is difficult.
[01:00:04]
Hebrews 11:35-38 (ESV): "Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated—of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."
Reflection: Think about a current or past hardship you have faced. How can you draw inspiration from the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 to endure and remain faithful to God in your situation?
Day 5: Encouragement from the Cloud of Witnesses
We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us, enduring hardships and staying faithful. Their examples encourage us to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and to keep walking with God. This cloud of witnesses serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey of faith. Their lives testify to the faithfulness of God and the power of enduring faith. By looking to their examples, we can find the strength to persevere and stay committed to our walk with God, knowing that we are part of a larger story of faith.
[01:04:48]
Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV): "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
Reflection: Who are some of the "cloud of witnesses" in your life—people whose faith has inspired you? How can their examples encourage you to keep your eyes on Jesus and stay faithful in your walk with God?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus said, whatever you do to the least of these, my brothers, you've done it to me. If I want to identify fully with Jesus Christ, who I claim to be my Savior and Lord, the best way that I can do that is to identify with the poor. This I know will go against the teaching of all the popular evangelical preachers. But they're just wrong. They're not bad. They're just wrong, he said. Christianity is not about building an absolutely secure little niche in the world. Christianity is about learning to love like Jesus. He loved the poor. He loved the brokenhearted." [41:15] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Faith is like a rowboat. And it's going to take some blood. Sweat. And some tears. To stay in the current of God's river. At times. It'll be a scenic route. There'll be much beauty to enjoy. At times it's going to be stormy. There's going to be some tough rowing. But you will get where God wants you. Keep going. Be faithful. Don't drift away." [01:12:27] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We live as if this whole Jesus business is true. Don't we? And it is true. We live as if it's going to be worth it all when we see Jesus. And folks. It will be worth it all. One glimpse of his dear face all trials will erase. So bravely run the race. That's the message of Hebrews 11. Run the race till we see Christ." [01:13:26] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "By faith, some of you have lost loved ones, but you refuse to give up on God. By faith, others of you are still, you still long to walk with God, despite times when intense, tear-filled prayers have not been answered the way you wanted. By faith, Marilyn and Ellen Klausten, I don't know if you guys made it this morning, But if you're watching, you did not throw in the towel, even though since 1990 you've faced such health issues, you've lost your son. You've had all kinds of other issues that many of us could never handle." [01:17:48] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "By faith, even though you feel, some of you maybe, that you failed Jesus, or that you don't represent the faith properly, you are still here this morning. You may even wonder why you're here. But I believe there's a glimmer of faith in you that God wants to fan into flame. And here I borrow from Brendan Manning. Maybe by faith, some of you need to hear these words when he writes. Maybe you need to hear the voice of Jesus saying something like this. Here's the voice of Jesus. I want you to know how proud I am that you haven't given up. I'm so proud that you keep getting up by faith." [01:19:18] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And so what is our takeaway from Enoch's strange example of faith? At first blush, he seems like one of those faith superstars that we could never approach. Too lofty. No pun intended. I'll never have enough faith to get airlifted by some divine Uber. And you know what? Actually, I'm not sure I want to be. I don't think I want to be. Since when was getting beamed up or a chariot of fire my destiny or was it your destiny? We are called to dig a little deeper when we examine Enoch's example of faith." [47:59] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And so what is it? And so to answer that question, I'm going to address two key strategies for getting the most out of reading chapter 11, including Enoch's story. So then I'll circle back at the end with Enoch. So strategy number one is this. We need to understand what faith is. And here I'm sure I'm going to create a few waves. 11-1. Faith is the substance of things hoped for. Now some people argue, or the way they argue, they may not use the words, but it's as if faith is some kind of magical force that you release." [48:47] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so whenever you're tempted to give up. File chapter 11. Get back into the scripture. You may notice that Hebrews is addressed to Hebrews. Jewish Christians. As opposition is heating up against the church, some Jewish Christians were considering returning to the safety of their Judaism. The thinking was that technically they weren't turning their backs on God really. They would still remain in favor with God by still being devout Jews. Who weren't being persecuted like the Christians. Yes, they would have to turn their backs on God. Turn their backs on Jesus. And that would be uncomfortable. But they still had Yahweh. That would be drifting away from the new covenant. But at least they had the old covenant." [01:01:06] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And I like to imagine Enoch speaking to us all this morning. And to the great cloud of witnesses. Saying to us all. I got there the easy way. I'm so humbled by all of you who've taken the torch. And are running the race. All those others up here with me in this cloud of witnesses. They paid such a horrible price. Mocked and scorned and spit on, ridiculed, beaten, tortured, murdered. Lost every comfort the world could offer. But here they are all sitting with me up in the stands. Telling me it was worth it all. So would you folks here this morning listen to the great cloud of witnesses telling you that too?" [01:07:20] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And so may, church, may we all fix our eyes on Jesus, the author of and the best example of by faith that you can imagine. Keep walking with God, church. Keep in step with the Spirit. Walking is a by faith action. Just walk. Because that walk pleases God who walks with you." [01:20:36] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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