What does Hebrews 11:38 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 11:38 is a poignant tribute to the faith and endurance of the saints who lived before Christ.

The verse concludes a passage that recounts the sacrifices and sufferings of the faithful, celebrating their perseverance despite being rejected by the world.

The phrase "Of whom the world was not worthy" signifies a reversed valuation where these individuals, though seemingly destitute and distressed, are lifted to a status higher than the world that has disowned them; their spiritual worth far outstrips any worldly value.

The description of their wandering in deserts, mountains, and hiding in caves and dens points to their physical hardships and social alienation.

They endured these trials because of their faith, which implies a deeper connection with God that surpasses earthly suffering.

Historical Context

The book of Hebrews is a letter written to Jewish Christians, possibly in Rome.

It's not certain who wrote Hebrews, but it was penned before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.

The recipients were experiencing persecution and hardship, leading some to consider renouncing their faith to return to Judaism.

The historical context of Hebrews 11:38 echoes the Old Testament accounts of prophets and other faithful individuals who, for their allegiance to God, endured rejection and suffering.

It also anticipates the experiences of early Christian martyrs who faced hardship and death rather than deny their faith.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be seen as communicating several key insights:

Divine Value

The world's rejection is contrasted with divine approval. The value system of God often stands in stark contrast to that of the world, with true worth being found in faithfulness to Him, rather than earthly success or acceptance.

Suffering and Faith

A recurring theme in Christian theology is the intersection of suffering and faith.

This verse suggests that the tribulations faced by the faithful are not an indication of divine disfavor but could be a sign of being part of God's greater plan.

Eschatological Hope

For some theologians, this verse signifies that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed. It points forward to a future hope where the faithful will be vindicated.

Practical Applications

Here are several ways in which this verse can be applied to modern life:

Encouragement in Trials

For those facing hardships, this verse is a source of encouragement. It reminds believers that suffering for faithfulness to God's command is honorable.

Worldly Rejection

This verse offers a framework for understanding rejection or alienation the believers face from the world due to their faith.

Commitment to Faith

It calls for a strong commitment to faith, even when the tangible rewards are not visible or when such commitment leads to physical deprivation or social ostracism.

Cross-References

• Matthew 5:10 - "Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
• 1 Kings 18:4 - "For it was [so], when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water."
• 2 Corinthians 11:26 - "[In] journeyings often, [in] perils of waters, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils by [mine own] countrymen, [in] perils by the heathen, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren;"

Language Study

The original Greek language provides further insight into key phrases:

"Of whom the world was not worthy"

"ἧς οὐκ ἄξιος ἦν ὁ κόσμος" - The term "ἄξιος" (axios) conveys the idea of worthiness or merit, emphasizing a strong contrast between the saints' divine merit and the standards of the 'κόσμος' (kosmos) or the world.

"Wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth"

The verb "πλανάω" (planáo) means to wander or go astray, illustrating the physical flight and movement of those under persecution, while "σπήλαια" (spélaia) and "ὀπαί" (opai) refer to natural hiding places or retreats, signifying the depths of their exclusion and hiding.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Other religious traditions and ancient myths also contain figures who suffer for their devotion to truth or divine command.

In Greek mythology, heroes often face trials and are sometimes exiled or on the run for their beliefs or actions.

In Eastern religions like Buddhism, the concept of asceticism and wandering ascetics reflects a different approach to worldly rejection and the pursuit of enlightenment.

Scientific Perspectives

Science doesn't typically address the metaphysical aspects of suffering and faith.

However, psychology studies the effects of societal rejection and perseverance on mental health, which can provide insight into the lived experiences of those who might have been in similar situations to the persons mentioned in Hebrews 11:38.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries elaborate on Hebrews 11:38:

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry sees in this verse an illustration of the extraordinary faith and patience of the saints, who were so far from accommodating themselves to the wicked world that the world was not willing to accommodate them.

John Gill's Exposition of the Bible

Gill suggests that the saints’ experiences reflect their non-conformity to the world and their physical afflictions were endured as a part of their Christian identity.

Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes notes that the rejecting world was not worthy of their presence, and by implication, it is an honor for any age or country to be permitted to entertain the righteous.

These different commentaries aim to provide historical, doctrinal, and practical insights into the text of Hebrews 11:38.