Hebrews 11:10 – “For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse gives us a glimpse into what kept Abraham going. He left his homeland and lived in tents in the land God had promised, but he was looking forward to something greater than just earthly land. He was looking ahead to a lasting city—one that God Himself was building. Abraham‘s faith wasn’t focused only on the here and now. He had his eyes set on something eternal.
This “city with foundations” refers to more than just land with buildings. It’s a picture of the heavenly home God is preparing for His people. Abraham believed that God had something solid, permanent, and eternal in store—not just for him, but for everyone who trusts Him. He lived his life with that future in mind.
Historical Context
Abraham lived around 2000 BC in a world where people found their security in land, cities, and family ties. When God called him to leave everything behind (Genesis 12), he went to a land he didn’t own and lived there as a foreigner. Unlike others who built cities and homes, Abraham lived in tents—temporary and fragile.
But Abraham’s mindset was different. He believed that God had something better waiting. He knew that this life wasn’t all there is. So he chose to live by faith, trusting in the unseen promise of God’s eternal home. This was especially meaningful for the original readers of Hebrews, who were facing trials and persecution. They needed the reminder that this world is not their final home—just like it wasn’t for Abraham.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that faith looks beyond what we can see. It trusts in something bigger and longer lasting than anything this world can offer. Abraham‘s hope wasn’t in his circumstances, but in God’s promise of a future city—one designed and built by God Himself.
It also reinforces that believers are pilgrims and strangers in this world. We don’t belong here forever. Our true home is with God, in the eternal kingdom He’s preparing. This verse ties faith directly to hope in the life to come. That hope fuels obedience and perseverance.
Another key point is that this city is God-built. It’s not something we earn, build, or create ourselves. Salvation and eternal life are fully His work.
Literary Analysis
The language of this verse contrasts what Abraham experienced with what he hoped for. He lived in tents—temporary, movable, vulnerable. But he looked forward to a city—solid, established, and permanent. The phrase “with foundations” emphasizes strength and stability, unlike the shifting and uncertain life he lived on earth.
The words “architect and builder” highlight God’s personal involvement. He didn’t just design this city; He also made it. Every part of it is from His hand. That image offers comfort, strength, and a sense of belonging. The verse fits seamlessly within the flow of Hebrews 11, which presents examples of faith tied to future hope.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 12:1-3 – God’s call to Abraham and His promise to bless him.
- Genesis 23:4 – Abraham describes himself as a “foreigner and stranger” in the land.
- Hebrews 13:14 – “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.”
- Revelation 21:2-4 – Describes the New Jerusalem, the city of God, coming down from heaven.
- John 14:2-3 – Jesus promises to prepare a place for us in His Father’s house.
- Philippians 3:20 – “Our citizenship is in heaven.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us to keep our eyes on eternity. It’s easy to get caught up in the things of this world—money, comfort, security, reputation—but none of it lasts. Abraham shows us that the life of faith means living with open hands, trusting that what God has ahead is far better.
For today’s Christian, this verse is an invitation to live with a heavenly mindset. It calls us to loosen our grip on temporary things and invest our hearts in what will last forever. When life gets hard or uncertain, remembering that God is building a lasting home for us gives strength and peace.
It also gives us a reason to live differently. If our true home is with God, then we don’t need to chase what the world chases. We can live with purpose, courage, and hope—just like Abraham did.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Only a loving God would prepare an eternal home for His people. God didn’t just promise Abraham land—He promised a future. And He made that same promise to all who believe. This verse shows that God isn’t distant or detached. He’s actively building something for us, something secure and lasting.
His love is seen in the fact that He doesn’t leave us wandering forever. He invites us home. And He’s not just waiting for us at the finish line—He’s designing the place where we’ll dwell with Him forever.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the One who makes this city possible. In John 14:2–3, He told His disciples that He was going to prepare a place for them and would come back to take them there. That’s the city Abraham was looking forward to—even though he didn’t know Jesus by name yet.
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus opened the way for us to enter that eternal home. Revelation 21 shows that Jesus will dwell with His people in the New Jerusalem—the city of God. Jesus is not only the way to that city; He’s the foundation of it.
Abraham believed in a city with foundations, and 1 Corinthians 3:11 says, “No one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Jesus is both the builder and the reason we belong there.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What “cities” are you tempted to build for yourself in this world?
- How does knowing that God is building an eternal home for you shape your decisions today?
- What does it look like to live as a “stranger” in this world while waiting for the city to come?
- How does Abraham’s example encourage you to live by faith and not by sight?
- In what ways does Jesus’ promise of preparing a place for you give you peace and hope?