Hebrews 11:37 – “They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated—”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse continues to describe what some of God’s faithful people experienced. These aren’t stories of miracle victories or visible success. Instead, it highlights those who suffered terribly for their obedience to God.
Some were stoned to death, others sawed in two, and some killed by the sword. These are graphic and intense descriptions of persecution. These people suffered not because they did anything wrong—but because they followed God.
The last part of the verse shows how they lived: poor, dressed in rough animal skins, often homeless and wandering. They were destitute, persecuted, and mistreated. They didn’t fit in with the world, and they didn’t live easy lives. But they were still faithful.
This verse reminds us that real faith is not just about power or victory—it’s also about holding on to God when the world turns against you.
Historical Context
The people described here likely include prophets and others who were faithful to God but rejected by their own people:
- Stoning was a common method of execution in Israel. According to tradition, Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, was stoned in the temple court (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).
- The phrase “sawed in two” is not found in the Old Testament but is part of Jewish tradition about the prophet Isaiah, who was reportedly executed this way under King Manasseh.
- Killed by the sword could refer to many prophets or godly people slain by kings who rejected God’s Word (see 1 Kings 19:10).
The part about wearing sheepskins and goatskins likely refers to people like Elijah and Elisha, who lived simply and were often outcasts (2 Kings 1:8). Many prophets were poor, rejected, and wandered because they wouldn’t bow to the world around them.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that being faithful to God does not guarantee comfort or safety. In fact, faithfulness often leads to hardship. But these people endured because they trusted God more than they feared suffering.
It also reminds us that God sees and honors the suffering of His people. Even though the world rejected them, God called them His own. Their stories, though painful, are written down as examples of true faith.
And it confronts the idea that God’s blessing always means outward success. Sometimes His greatest work is done through quiet suffering, steady endurance, and costly obedience.
Literary Analysis
This verse uses vivid, emotional language. The rhythm moves from how they died (“stoned,” “sawed,” “killed”) to how they lived (“destitute,” “persecuted,” “mistreated”). It paints a full picture of a life of suffering for God.
There’s no attempt to hide the ugliness of what happened. The honesty of this verse gives weight to the faith it describes. These aren’t fairy tale heroes—they’re real people who bled, wept, and died for the God they trusted.
By listing these kinds of sufferings right after stories of great miracles, the writer makes it clear: both kinds of faith are honored by God.
Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Chronicles 24:20-22 – Zechariah is stoned for speaking truth.
- 1 Kings 19:10 – Elijah says prophets have been killed by the sword.
- Matthew 23:35-37 – Jesus refers to prophets killed and stoned by the people.
- 2 Kings 1:8 – Elijah is described as wearing a garment of hair and a leather belt.
- Luke 6:22-23 – Jesus blesses those who are hated and rejected for His name.
- Romans 8:36 – “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
- 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse speaks directly to Christians who feel out of place, attacked, or pushed aside because of their faith. It says: you’re not alone, and you’re not forgotten. Others before you suffered too, and they were faithful.
This verse calls us to take our faith seriously. Following Jesus might cost us something—popularity, comfort, opportunities, or even safety. But our reward is not in this world—it’s in the next.
It also challenges us to see suffering differently. When we suffer for doing right, God sees. He’s not distant or silent. He honors those who remain true to Him, no matter the cost.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
At first glance, a verse like this might seem to challenge the idea of a loving God. Why would He allow this kind of suffering? But if we look deeper, we see love in God’s commitment to truth, justice, and eternal life.
God doesn’t shield His people from all pain—but He walks with them through it. He gives them courage, comfort, and eternal reward. His love is not shallow—it’s deep enough to carry us through fire, prison, and death itself.
And He never forgets His faithful ones. Even if the world casts them out, God welcomes them in.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects directly to Jesus, who Himself was rejected, mocked, beaten, and killed. He wore no fine clothes, had no place to lay His head, and died in shame—yet in total obedience to the Father.
Jesus was mistreated more than anyone, yet He never gave up. He is the ultimate example of faithful suffering. And because of His resurrection, we know that death and pain are not the end.
When we suffer for our faith, we are sharing in the sufferings of Christ (Philippians 3:10). And just as Jesus was raised, so we too will be raised.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What part of this verse stands out to you the most, and why?
- Are there times when you’ve been mistreated for your faith? How did you respond?
- How does this verse challenge your view of what it means to follow Jesus?
- What can you learn from the faith of those who suffered and died for God?
- How does Jesus’ own suffering help you face difficulties with faith and hope?