What does Hebrews 11:27 mean?

By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Hebrews 11:27

Explanation

[Hebrews 11:27] speaks of the faith of Moses as he decided to leave Egypt and not fear the Pharaoh’s anger. The verse highlights Moses’ unwavering faith and trust in God, even though God was not visible to him. It underscores the invisible presence and guidance of God that Moses relied on, enabling him to make a decisive and dangerous move against the most powerful ruler of the time. The phrase “as seeing him who is invisible” reflects the profound spiritual insight that faith allows a believer to see beyond the physical realm into the spiritual, and to act based on that vision.

Historical Context

This verse is from the Epistle to the Hebrews in the New Testament which is traditionally believed to have been written around 64-70 AD. The exact authorship is unknown, but it is often attributed to Paul the Apostle or one of his contemporaries. The audience of the letter is thought to be Jewish Christians, possibly in Rome, who were familiar with Old Testament Scriptures. They were undergoing persecution and may have been tempted to abandon their Christian faith and revert to Judaism. The passage is part of a larger section commending the faith of Old Testament figures, with Moses being one such exemplar.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives may focus on the elements of faith, perseverance, and divine reassurance present in Hebrews 11:27. From a Christian structuralist viewpoint, the verse emphasizes the triumph of faith over earthly powers and visibility of spiritual truth to the eyes of belief. Liberation theology may interpret Moses’ leaving Egypt as an act of defiance against oppression, inspired by faith in a God of justice and liberation. Covenant theology sees this action of Moses as part of God’s unfolding plan, with Moses’ faithfulness being a reflection of God’s faithfulness to His promises.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Hebrews 11:27 can be applied in daily life in several ways. Individuals may find encouragement to stand firm in their beliefs, even when facing opposition from authority figures or societal norms. It encourages believers to trust in God’s guidance and to take steps of faith, despite not having physical evidence of God’s presence. The verse also calls for endurance and steadfastness in the face of challenges, drawing strength from one’s faith.

Cross-References

• Exodus 2:11-15: “And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.”
• Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
• 2 Corinthians 4:18: “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
• Hebrews 11:6: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text of this verse, key words include:

• “By faith” (πίστει, pistei): Meaning trust or belief in God’s promises.
• “Forsaking” (κατέλιπεν, katelipen): To leave behind or abandon.
• “Endured” (καρτέρησεν, karteresen): To remain under, to bear up courageously under suffering.
• “Seeing” (ὁρῶν, horon): To perceive with the eyes; metaphorically, to experience or be conscious of.

These terms help to convey the determination and spiritual insight that comes with faith.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn between Moses forsaking Egypt and other ancient myths where heroes undergo exile or leave their kingdoms as a test of faith or character, such as the exile of Rama in Hindu scriptures. Religiously, the story parallels with figures in other faiths who rely on unseen forces or deities, reflecting a universal theme of faith transcending the visible world.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community typically does not comment on faith-based actions and beliefs as they fall outside the scope of empirical investigation. However, modern psychology may study the phenomena of faith and belief, and their effects on human behavior and decision-making, as portrayed in this verse.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of Hebrews 11:27. Matthew Henry’s commentary acknowledges God’s providence in Moses’ life, seeing his faith as integral in his decision to leave Egypt. The Pulpit Commentary discusses the moral courage and endurance Moses exhibited as he faced the wrath of Pharaoh, which serves as a model for Christians facing trials. John Calvin speaks to the invisibility of God and how faith serves as the lens through which we can perceive and follow Him.