Hebrews 11:26

Hebrews 11:26 extols the remarkable faith of Moses, presenting his choice as an exemplary act of valuing spiritual realities over worldly advantages. This verse is a pivotal point in the "Hall of Faith" chapter, showcasing Moses' deliberate decision to identify with God's people and their destiny, rather than clinging to the immense power and wealth available to him in Egypt.

Historical and Cultural Context

Moses grew up as an adopted son of Pharaoh's daughter, affording him unparalleled status, education, and access to the vast "treasures in Egypt." Egypt was a dominant empire, synonymous with opulence, advanced civilization, and military might. For Moses to abandon this life meant forsaking the pinnacle of worldly success and comfort for the hardship of identifying with a slave nation. His choice was a profound act of self-denial and trust in God's unseen promises, setting the stage for the dramatic events of the Exodus.

Key Themes and Messages

• Valuation by Faith: Moses' "esteeming" (Greek: hegesamenos, meaning 'considering' or 'counting') of the reproach of Christ as "greater riches" demonstrates a radical reordering of priorities. His faith allowed him to perceive the true, enduring value of God's promises over the fleeting allure of earthly wealth.
• The Reproach of Christ: This powerful phrase links Moses' suffering and identification with God's rejected people to the future suffering and rejection that Christ Himself would endure, and that His followers would share. It signifies the scorn, opposition, and hardship that come from aligning with God's truth and righteousness in a fallen world. Moses' willingness to bear this burden prefigures the call to take up one's cross and follow Christ.
• Future Reward as Motivation: Moses' decision was not arbitrary or masochistic. The verse clearly states, "for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward." This indicates that his actions were motivated by a clear understanding and confident expectation of God's promised repayment. This "recompence" refers to the ultimate, eternal reward God bestows upon those who faithfully serve Him, far surpassing any earthly gain.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "reproach of Christ" (Greek: ton oneidismon tou Christou) is striking because Moses lived centuries before Christ's incarnation. The author uses this term to emphasize the timeless nature of suffering for God's cause, viewing it as a participation in the same divine purpose and ultimate rejection that the Messiah would experience. The word "recompence" (Greek: antapodosis) carries the idea of a full and fitting repayment, assuring believers that God is just and will certainly reward faithfulness.

Practical Application

Moses' example in Hebrews 11:26 profoundly challenges believers today to examine their own values and priorities:

• Rethink "Riches": Are we, like Moses, able to see beyond material possessions and temporary comfort to the lasting value of spiritual riches and God's eternal promises? This verse encourages us to lay up treasures in heaven, where they are secure and imperishable.
• Embrace the Cost of Discipleship: Following Christ often involves enduring "reproach" – misunderstanding, criticism, or even persecution – from the world. Moses' choice reminds us that identifying with Christ's kingdom may come with a cost, but this suffering is ultimately a privilege and a sign of true faith.
• Live with Eternal Hope: Moses' focus on the "recompence of the reward" provides a powerful motivation for enduring hardship. Our hope in God's faithfulness and the promise of eternal reward empowers us to make choices that honor Him, even when they are difficult or unpopular in the present moment. This eternal perspective strengthens us to persevere, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).