The ancients started with faith,  seeking God, sacrifice, the people of God, and strength in weakness. Next was refusing to escape difficult situations. Though Satan was accusing them, they refused to give in.

During the time of the prophets, to encourage the people to remain steadfast, they reveal for the first time God’s hidden love. They give the first prophecies concerning the future and the first prophetic demonstrations. And God raises the first person from the dead, refusing to be defeated by even death.

6) The Prophets: “REFUSING to be released” – Hebrews 11:35

• vs. disqualified – “God, I refuse to listen to Satan’s accusations”
  • Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him…. Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. (Zech 3:1,3)

• Recognize Hidden Love – “God, I refuse salvation from anyone else”
  • It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms; but they did not realize it was I who healed them. I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love. (Hos 11:3-4)

• Prophesy the Future – “God, I refuse to be discouraged about my future”
  • “My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel” (Ezek 37:12)

• Prophetic Demonstrations – “God, I refuse to avoid suffering”
  • Then lie on your left side and put the sin of the people of Israel upon yourself. You are to bear their sin for the number of days you lie on your side. (Ezek 4:4)

• Raise the Dead – “God, I refuse to doubt your power”
  • The Lord heard Elijah’s cry, and the boy’s life returned to him, and he lived. (1 Ki 17:21-22)