Hebrews 11:2

KJV

For by it the elders obtained a good report.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} by {G1722} it {G5026} the elders {G4245} obtained a good report {G3140}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It was for this that Scripture attested the merit of the people of old.

Berean Standard Bible

This is why the ancients were commended.

American Standard Version

For therein the elders had witness borne to them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 11:2 serves as the foundational declaration for the ensuing "Hall of Faith" chapter, asserting that it was through the active and enduring quality of faith that the revered figures of old, the "elders," received divine commendation and a favorable testimony from God. This verse immediately connects to the definition of faith provided in [Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - The Definition of Faith"), establishing the timeless principle that faith is the means by which God's people are recognized and approved, setting the stage for a grand historical panorama of those who lived by this very principle.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse acts as the crucial bridge between the profound definition of faith presented in [Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - The Definition of Faith") and the extensive catalog of faithful individuals that follows in [Hebrews 11:3-40](/hebrews/11-3-40 "Hebrews 11:3-40 - The Hall of Faith"). The phrase "For by it" directly refers to the "faith" described in the preceding verse as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Thus, [Hebrews 11:2](/hebrews/11-2 "Hebrews 11:2 - The Elders' Commendation by Faith") transitions from an abstract definition to concrete examples, illustrating how this faith was lived out by historical figures and recognized by God. It sets the precedent that the commendation of God is inextricably linked to the exercise of genuine faith, preparing the reader for the detailed accounts of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and many others.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle to the Hebrews was written to a community of Jewish Christians, likely facing significant persecution or social pressure to revert to Judaism. They were potentially weary, discouraged, and tempted to abandon their Christian confession. The author's primary aim is to demonstrate the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant over the Old, and to exhort these believers to persevere in their faith. By presenting a "cloud of witnesses" from their own revered heritage—the "elders" of Israelite history—the author provides powerful examples of endurance and trust in God's promises, even when those promises were not fully realized in their lifetime. This historical review served as a cultural anchor, reminding them that faith was not a new, isolated concept but a continuous thread woven through the tapestry of their spiritual ancestry, offering both comfort and challenge.

* **Key Themes:** [Hebrews 11:2](/hebrews/11-2 "Hebrews 11:2 - The Elders' Commendation by Faith") introduces several key themes that permeate the entire chapter and the broader epistle. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Approval and Commendation**, emphasizing that faith is the quality through which God acknowledges and testifies concerning His people. This aligns with the broader message that "without faith it is impossible to please him" ([Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Hebrews 11:6 - Faith Pleases God")). Secondly, it highlights the **Legacy of Faith**, establishing that the principle of living by faith is not novel but has been the defining characteristic of God's people throughout history, creating a continuous lineage from the patriarchs to the contemporary believers. This legacy serves as an encouragement to the struggling audience, reminding them they are part of a grand narrative of perseverance. Lastly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Faith as a Practical, Active Principle**, not merely intellectual assent, as the "elders" acted upon their faith, leading to God's favorable report on their lives, as seen in the subsequent examples like Abraham's obedience ([Hebrews 11:8](/hebrews/11-8 "Hebrews 11:8 - Abraham's Obedience by Faith")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **elders (Greek, _presbýteros'_):** This term, derived from a comparative form meaning "older," refers to those who are senior in age or position. In this context, it specifically denotes the revered figures of ancient Israelite history, including patriarchs, prophets, and other significant individuals whose stories are recounted in the Old Testament. The use of "elders" here emphasizes their historical precedence and their role as foundational examples of faith for subsequent generations. It conveys a sense of veneration and respect for those who have gone before.
* **obtained a good report (Greek, _martyréō'_):** This verb, in its passive form (ἐμαρτυρήθησαν, *emartyrethesan*), literally means "they were testified of" or "they received a testimony." It signifies that God Himself bore witness to their faith, or that their lives, through their faith, bore witness to God's power and faithfulness. It implies divine commendation and approval, indicating that their faith was not merely a private conviction but a publicly acknowledged and divinely affirmed quality that pleased God. This "good report" is God's own declaration concerning the authenticity and efficacy of their faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For by it":** This introductory phrase directly links [Hebrews 11:2](/hebrews/11-2 "Hebrews 11:2 - The Elders' Commendation by Faith") to the definition of faith provided in [Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - The Definition of Faith"). The "it" unequivocally refers to "faith"—the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. This establishes faith as the instrumental cause or the means through which the subsequent action occurred. It underscores that faith is not a passive belief but an active principle that enables and facilitates divine interaction and commendation.
* **"the elders obtained a good report":** This clause identifies the recipients of the commendation ("the elders," referring to the revered figures of the Old Testament) and the outcome of their faith ("obtained a good report"). The "good report" signifies divine approval and testimony. It means that God Himself bore witness to the genuineness and effectiveness of their faith. Their lives, characterized by faith, served as a testament to God's faithfulness and power, and in turn, God bore witness to their righteous standing and pleasing disposition before Him. This report is not merely human opinion but a divine declaration of their integrity and faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews masterfully employs several literary devices in [Hebrews 11:2](/hebrews/11-2 "Hebrews 11:2 - The Elders' Commendation by Faith") to achieve his persuasive aims. Foremost is **Exemplification**, as this verse introduces the entire chapter as a grand catalog of historical examples of faith. It sets the stage for the detailed narratives that follow, each serving as a concrete illustration of the abstract definition of faith from [Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - The Definition of Faith"). The "elders" are presented as a collective model for the struggling readers. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Commendation**, as the phrase "obtained a good report" highlights God's divine approval and affirmation of their lives of faith. This serves as a powerful encouragement, suggesting that God actively recognizes and honors those who live by faith. Finally, the verse implicitly uses **Continuity** or **Lineage**, by referring to "the elders," it connects the contemporary audience to a long, unbroken chain of faithful individuals, reinforcing that their current struggles are part of a timeless spiritual journey shared by their revered ancestors.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 11:2 profoundly connects the act of faith to the concept of divine approval and righteousness. It asserts that God's commendation is not based on perfect performance or adherence to a legal code, but fundamentally on a trusting reliance upon His character and promises. This establishes a theological precedent that spans redemptive history, affirming that faith has always been the pathway to a right relationship with God. The "good report" is God's testimony to the validity and efficacy of their faith, demonstrating that genuine faith is inherently pleasing to Him and results in His affirmation. This principle is foundational to understanding salvation history, revealing a consistent divine standard for human interaction with the Creator.

* [Romans 1:17](/romans/1-17 "Romans 1:17 - The Righteous Shall Live by Faith")
* [Galatians 3:6](/galatians/3-6 "Galatians 3:6 - Abraham's Faith Counted as Righteousness")
* [James 2:23](/james/2-23 "James 2:23 - Abraham Called God's Friend")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 11:2 offers profound encouragement and challenge for believers today. It reminds us that our faith, though often unseen by the world, is profoundly visible and valuable to God. Just as the ancients were commended for their unwavering trust, so too are we called to live by a similar, active faith in God's promises, even when they seem distant, delayed, or require significant sacrifice. This verse invites us to consider our own lives: are we living in such a way that God could give us a "good report"? It's not about achieving perfection, but about cultivating a deep, abiding trust in God's character and His Word, allowing that trust to shape our decisions, our perseverance through trials, and our hope for the future. We are part of a continuous lineage of faith, connected to a "cloud of witnesses" who found their ultimate approval in God alone. This truth should inspire us to press on, knowing that our faithful endurance is not in vain but is recognized and honored by the Almighty.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for my faith to be "commended" by God, and how might I cultivate a faith that receives such a report?**
* **How does understanding the "elders" as a historical lineage of faith encourage me in my own walk with God, especially during times of doubt or difficulty?**
* **In what practical ways can I demonstrate the "substance of things hoped for" and the "evidence of things not seen" in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**Who are "the elders" mentioned in Hebrews 11:2?**

Answer: "The elders" (Greek: *presbýteros*) in [Hebrews 11:2](/hebrews/11-2 "Hebrews 11:2 - The Elders' Commendation by Faith") refer to the revered figures of ancient Israelite history, the patriarchs, prophets, and other significant individuals from the Old Testament. The rest of [Hebrews chapter 11](/hebrews/11 "Hebrews 11 - The Faith Chapter") provides a detailed list of these individuals, starting with Abel in [Hebrews 11:4](/hebrews/11-4 "Hebrews 11:4 - Abel's Faith") and continuing through figures like Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, and Samuel, among others. They are presented as a "cloud of witnesses" ([Hebrews 12:1](/hebrews/12-1 "Hebrews 12:1 - The Cloud of Witnesses")) who exemplify what it means to live by faith.

**What does it mean that they "obtained a good report"?**

Answer: The phrase "obtained a good report" (Greek: *emartyrethesan*) means that these elders "were testified of" or "received a testimony." This implies a divine commendation; God Himself bore witness to their faith. It signifies that their lives, characterized by faith, were pleasing to God and received His approval. It's not merely that people spoke well of them, but that God Himself affirmed their faith as genuine and effective. This "good report" is a declaration of their righteous standing and the validity of their trust in Him, underscoring the truth that "without faith it is impossible to please him" ([Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Hebrews 11:6 - Faith Pleases God")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Hebrews 11:2](/hebrews/11-2 "Hebrews 11:2 - The Elders' Commendation by Faith") celebrates the faith of Old Testament saints, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in Jesus Himself, who is the supreme object and perfecter of our faith. The faith of the elders, though commendable, was always forward-looking, anticipating the promises of God that would ultimately be realized in Christ. They "died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them and greeted them from afar" ([Hebrews 11:13](/hebrews/11-13 "Hebrews 11:13 - Dying in Faith")). Jesus, however, is the embodiment of all God's promises, the ultimate "evidence of things not seen" and "substance of things hoped for" ([Hebrews 11:1](/hebrews/11-1 "Hebrews 11:1 - The Definition of Faith")). He is the "author and perfecter of our faith" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Faith")), the one whose life, death, and resurrection perfectly exemplify and complete the faith that the elders only glimpsed. Our "good report" before God is no longer based on our imperfect faith alone, but on our faith in Christ, whose perfect obedience and atoning sacrifice provide the righteousness that God commends ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). Thus, the faith of the elders points us to the One who perfectly fulfilled the divine expectation of faith and through whom we, too, can obtain an eternal "good report."

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 11:39

And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:

Hebrews 11:4

¶ By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.