A Better City_Country_Kingdom - by Kieth Parker - lectureship 2017

Teachers

Lesson Summary

Keith Parker taught a Bible class focused on Hebrews 11 and the theme of seeking "a better city" and "a better country." Parker began by establishing that while we may love our earthly homes and nations, Scripture teaches us there is something greater—a heavenly city and country prepared for those who have faith in God. He outlined Hebrews 11 into three main sections: the definition of faith (Hebrews 11:1), illustrations of faith through biblical heroes (Hebrews 11:2-40), and the application of faith (Hebrews 12:1 onward). Parker defined faith as being sure of what we hope for and being certain of what we do not see—knowing that something is real even without visible evidence. He then walked through the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11, including Abraham, Noah, Abel, Gideon, Samson, Jephthah, and Samuel, noting how each demonstrated trust in God despite circumstances that seemed impossible from a human perspective. Parker emphasized that these biblical examples are not merely historical records but illustrations meant to encourage modern believers to live by faith. He concluded by pointing to Hebrews 12:1, where Paul exhorts readers to apply the principle of faith by laying aside every weight and sin, running with endurance the race set before them. The ultimate message was that faith is not passive belief but an active commitment to seeking God's kingdom over earthly security.