We're Part of A Bigger Story

Life is full of moments that don’t fully make sense until we live them. Whether it’s entering a new phase of life or enduring trials we never anticipated, we often feel unprepared or alone. Yet Scripture reminds us that our stories are never isolated. As believers, we are part of a much larger narrative—one rooted in the faithfulness of God and the courageous endurance of those who came before us. Hebrews 11 draws back the curtain on this grand story, showcasing generations of people who lived by faith, even when the outcomes were uncertain or painful.

The final verses of Hebrews 11 point to saints who didn’t experience miraculous deliverance or earthly success. Some were mocked, imprisoned, tortured, and even killed. Their stories are often sobering and difficult to read, but their legacy is one of deep faith. The Bible tells us that "the world was not worthy of them." These faithful men and women placed their hope not in comfort or escape but in the promises of God—promises that extended beyond this life into eternity.

Faith, as we learn here, is not a guarantee of an easy life. In fact, Scripture shows that pain and persecution are not exceptions for the believer—they are often part of the journey. Our culture may encourage us to avoid suffering at all costs, but the gospel invites us to embrace faith even when it’s costly. Our hope is not in temporary relief but in the better resurrection that awaits all who trust in Christ.

This message is as relevant today as it was in the early church. Around the world, Christians face incredible risks for following Jesus. From North Korea to Nigeria, believers are worshiping in secret, sharing the gospel under threat, and standing firm in places where their faith could cost them everything. Their courage challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we taking risks for Jesus? Are we living in such a way that reflects our trust in his promises?

At the heart of Hebrews 11 is the powerful reminder that we are not alone. The same God who sustained the saints of old walks with us today. He has not abandoned us in our struggle. He understands our fears, weaknesses, and disappointments, and he intercedes for us. In him, we find mercy and strength in our time of need. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, and our faith—however small—is part of a grand, victorious story.

This kind of faith isn’t just personal; it’s deeply communal. We need each other. We need the encouragement of fellow believers, the accountability of spiritual friendships, and the legacy of those who’ve gone before us. Faith was never meant to be lived in isolation. That’s why we encourage everyone to get connected—whether through the church community, a small group, mission partnerships, or stories of faithful men and women across history.

As a church, we believe that “life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” God is calling each of us to step out in faith, to endure when it’s hard, and to stand firm when the world pushes back. Let’s live like we believe that our story is part of something greater—his story—and that, in the end, it always leads to victory.

- Adapted from sermons preached across our 3 campuses on 3/23/25.