The Faith Of Our Fathers: For Authenticity And Great Exploits

THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS: FOR AUTHENTICITY AND GREAT EXPLOITS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 11:1-2

Key Verse: “For by it the elders obtained a good report.” — Hebrews 11:2 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Jude 1:3, Romans 4:19-21, 1 Kings 18:36-39, Daniel 11:32b, Acts 4:20

INTRODUCTION

The faith of our fathers is not a historical relic but a living heritage that sustained men and women who walked with God in truth and power. Their faith was not cosmetic or convenient; it was deeply rooted in obedience, sacrifice, and unwavering trust in God, even when circumstances were hostile.

In an age where faith is often reduced to mere confession without conviction, the Church must rediscover the authenticity that marked the fathers of faith. Their walk with God produced results that could not be denied—fire fell, seas parted, lions were shut, and kingdoms were subdued.

This message is a clarion call to rise above shallow Christianity and embrace a faith that is tested, proven, and productive. When we walk in the faith of our fathers, we will not only preserve authenticity but also experience great exploits that glorify God in our generation.

1. THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS WAS GENUINE AND UNCOMPROMISED

The fathers of faith did not adjust their convictions to suit culture or pressure. Their faith was rooted in truth and remained firm regardless of opposition.

a) Faith Rooted in Truth.  Jude 1:3

Their faith was anchored in divine truth, not human opinion, and they contended earnestly for it even at great personal cost.

b) Faith That Refused Compromise.  Daniel 3:16-18

They chose obedience to God over survival, showing that genuine faith values God above life itself.

c) Faith Tested by Trials.  1 Peter 1:7

Their faith passed through fire and came out refined, proving its authenticity before heaven and men.

d) Faith That Honoured God Publicly. Romans 1:16

They were not ashamed to stand for God openly, regardless of ridicule or persecution.

Biblical Example:

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to the golden image, demonstrating uncompromised faith that invited divine intervention.

2. THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS WAS BUILT ON INTIMATE WALK WITH GOD

Their exploits flowed from relationship, not religious activity. They knew God personally and trusted Him absolutely.

a) Faith Sustained by Fellowship.  Genesis 5:24

Walking with God produced consistency, sensitivity, and spiritual authority in their lives.

b) Faith That Heard God Clearly.  Genesis 12:1-4

They obeyed divine instructions promptly because they were accustomed to God’s voice.

c) Faith That Relied on God’s Character.  Hebrews 11:11

They trusted God not merely for miracles but because they knew Him to be faithful.

d) Faith Expressed Through Obedience.  John 14:21

Their love for God was demonstrated by complete obedience, not selective submission.

Biblical Example:

Abraham walked with God, obeyed divine instructions, and became the father of faith through relational trust.

3. THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS PRODUCED GREAT EXPLOITS

Their faith was not theoretical; it generated tangible, supernatural outcomes that advanced God’s purpose.

a) Faith That Provoked Divine Power.  Hebrews 11:33-34

Through faith, they subdued kingdoms, quenched fire, and escaped danger.

b) Faith That Confronted Darkness. 1 Kings 18:36-39

Their faith challenged falsehood and revealed the supremacy of the true God.

c) Faith That Changed History. Joshua 10:12-14

Their trust in God altered natural order and redirected national destinies.

d) Faith That Glorified God. Matthew 5:16

Their exploits pointed people back to God, not to themselves.

Biblical Example:

Elijah called down fire from heaven on Mount Carmel, proving that authentic faith releases undeniable power.

4. THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS MUST BE CONTENDED FOR AND TRANSMITTED

This faith must not be lost; it must be preserved, practiced, and passed on to future generations.

a) Faith That Must Be Defended. Jude 1:3

Every generation must intentionally protect the purity of true faith.

b) Faith That Must Be Modeled.  1 Corinthians 11:1

Authentic faith is more effectively taught by example than by words alone.

c) Faith That Must Be Practiced. James 2:17

Living faith expresses itself through consistent action and obedience.

d) Faith That Must Be Passed On. Psalm 78:5-7

God expects each generation to transmit faith to the next without dilution.

Biblical Example:

Paul handed down genuine faith to Timothy, ensuring continuity of truth and power across generations.

CONCLUSION

The faith of our fathers remains the standard for authenticity and great exploits. It was a faith grounded in truth, sustained by intimacy with God, proven by trials, and validated by supernatural results. Such faith is still available and necessary in our time.

God is calling this generation to rise above superficial Christianity and return to a faith that costs something yet produces everything. When we embrace the faith of our fathers, we will walk in integrity, release divine power, and leave a spiritual legacy that will outlive us.