Hebrews 11:10

For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God.

For {G1063} he looked for {G1551} a city {G4172} which hath {G2192} foundations {G2310}, whose {G3739} builder {G5079} and {G2532} maker {G1217} is God {G2316}.

For he was looking forward to the city with permanent foundations, of which the architect and builder is God.

For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.

for he looked for the city which hath the foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

Commentary

Hebrews 11:10 (KJV) is a profound statement within the famous "Hall of Faith" chapter, highlighting the ultimate hope and focus of Abraham, the patriarch. This verse reveals the driving force behind Abraham's obedience and willingness to live as a sojourner.

Context

This verse directly follows the account of Abraham's obedient journey and his decision to leave his homeland for an unknown destination, as detailed in Hebrews 11:8. Having lived in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise (Hebrews 11:9), Abraham's earthly existence was characterized by transience. Hebrews 11:10 explains *why* he embraced such a temporary lifestyle: his gaze was fixed on something far greater and more permanent than any earthly city. His faith was not merely in a physical land but in a spiritual, eternal dwelling.

Key Themes

  • Eternal Hope and Divine Promise: Abraham's longing was not for a temporary settlement but for an everlasting city, a testament to God's ultimate and enduring promises. This "city" represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant with His people, a place of perfect peace and security.
  • God as the Ultimate Architect: The phrase "whose builder and maker is God" underscores the divine origin and perfect design of this heavenly dwelling. Unlike human constructions, this city is eternal, flawless, and secure because God Himself is its architect and creator. This points to the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city of God, prepared for His people.
  • The Pilgrim's Perspective: Abraham's life serves as an example of living with an eternal perspective. He understood that his true home was not on earth, but with God. This encourages believers to see their earthly lives as a temporary journey towards a permanent, divine destination.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words used for "builder" (technitēs - τεχνίτης) and "maker" (dēmiourgos - δημιουργός) are significant. Technitēs refers to a skilled craftsman, an architect, or an artisan, emphasizing God's meticulous design and expertise. Dēmiourgos speaks of a creator, one who brings something into being, highlighting God's sovereign power and originality. Together, they convey the absolute perfection and divine authority behind the construction of this ultimate city, which is far beyond human capability, as Psalm 127:1 reminds us, "Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it."

Practical Application

Hebrews 11:10 calls believers to cultivate an eternal mindset, just as Abraham did. Our earthly possessions, achievements, and even struggles are temporary. The true and lasting inheritance lies in the "city which hath foundations," built by God. This verse encourages us to place our hope and trust not in the fleeting things of this world, but in the unfailing promises of God and the eternal home He has prepared for those who believe in Him. It's a reminder to live as spiritual sojourners, with our ultimate citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20), eagerly anticipating the return of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 13:14 (19 votes)

    For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.

  • Philippians 3:20 (16 votes)

    For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

  • Hebrews 12:22 (15 votes)

    But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,

  • 2 Corinthians 5:1 (14 votes)

    ¶ For we know that if our earthly house of [this] tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

  • Hebrews 3:4 (12 votes)

    For every house is builded by some [man]; but he that built all things [is] God.

  • John 14:2 (11 votes)

    In my Father's house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

  • Revelation 21:2 (10 votes)

    And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.