IDEA: When we are tempted to abandon the faith, we need to go back to basics.

TEXT: "But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings: partly while you were made a spectacle by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated; for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven" (Hebrews 10:32-34).

PURPOSE: To help listeners hold on to the faith.

Have you ever known people who once seemed to have a vital, dynamic faith who turned their backs on it? Why do you think that happens?

I. The writer to the Hebrews writes to men and women who appeared to have a vibrant faith.

They had shown their faith in works of love and devotion.

They had stood their ground against suffering. It is an athletic metaphor.

They were insulted, and stood with others who were treated that way. Is this unusual?

When some of their number were in prison, the others didn't shrink from visiting them. It was a regular and dangerous duty of Christian love.

They could have been arrested themselves by identifying with prisoners.

Prisoners who had no means of their own could starve unless their friends brought them food. They also needed clothing.

The writer to the Hebrews was concerned that these vibrant Christians might give up on the faith (10:35-36).

II. What leads some people to turn away from the faith when life turns hard?

The content of the faith has not changed.

They had been promised a rich reward they could count on.

They could grow tired of waiting, so they needed patience to wait for the Lord who would give them their reward.

III. Others keep on even though they have suffered greatly for their faith. Why?