Heroes of the Old Testament
Discover the exciting stories of Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and other Old Testament heroes.
Learn about their faith and how God worked through them.
Noah: The Man Who Built an Ark
Key Scripture: Genesis 6-9
The Story: In a world filled with wickedness, Noah stood alone as a righteous man who walked with God.
When God decided to cleanse the earth with a flood, He instructed Noah to build an enormous ark to
save his family and the animals. Despite facing ridicule from others, Noah faithfully worked on the ark for
many years. When the floodwaters came, Noah, his family, and the animals were safely preserved inside.
His Faith in Action: Noah demonstrated extraordinary faith by:
Believing God's warning about something that had never happened before
Working diligently for decades on the ark without seeing rain
Standing firm in his convictions despite being surrounded by mockers
Life Lesson: Sometimes following God means doing things that others don't understand. Noah's story
teaches us that faith often requires perseverance through long periods of waiting while trusting God's
plan.
God's Promise: After the flood, God made a covenant with Noah and placed a rainbow in the sky as a
sign that He would never again destroy the earth with water. This shows how God rewards faithfulness
and keeps His promises.
Abraham: Father of Faith
Key Scripture: Genesis 12-25
The Story: God called Abram (later renamed Abraham) to leave his homeland and journey to an
unknown place that God would show him. God promised to make Abraham's descendants into a great
nation through which all the earth would be blessed. Though Abraham and his wife Sarah were very old
and childless, God miraculously fulfilled His promise with the birth of their son Isaac. Abraham's faith was
severely tested when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, but at the last moment, God provided a ram as a
substitute.
His Faith in Action: Abraham demonstrated remarkable faith by:
Leaving his home and extended family to follow God's call
Continuing to believe God's promise of a son despite his and Sarah's old age
Being willing to sacrifice his beloved son, trusting that God would somehow fulfill His promises
Life Lesson: Abraham teaches us that faith sometimes requires stepping into the unknown and being
willing to sacrifice what we hold most dear. His life demonstrates that God's timing may be different from
ours, but His promises never fail.
God's Covenant: God established an everlasting covenant with Abraham, promising him descendants as
numerous as the stars and a special land for his people. Through Abraham's lineage came the nation of
Israel and eventually Jesus Christ, bringing blessing to all nations.
Joseph: From Pit to Palace
Key Scripture: Genesis 37-50
The Story: As Jacob's favorite son, Joseph received a special coat and had dreams suggesting his family
would bow to him. His jealous brothers sold him into slavery in Egypt, where he rose to a position of trust
in Potiphar's house before being falsely accused and imprisoned. Even in prison, Joseph's character and
God-given ability to interpret dreams distinguished him. When he interpreted Pharaoh's dreams about a
coming famine, Joseph was elevated to second-in-command over all Egypt. His wise administration saved
countless lives, including his own family who eventually came to Egypt for food, fulfilling his childhood
dreams.
His Faith in Action: Joseph demonstrated unwavering faith by:
Maintaining integrity even when far from home and facing temptation
Remaining faithful to God despite repeated injustices and setbacks
Using his position of power to save lives rather than seek revenge
Life Lesson: Joseph's life teaches us that God can use even painful circumstances and betrayals as part of
His larger plan. His story reminds us that forgiveness frees us and that God's purposes often extend far
beyond what we can see in the moment.
God's Provision: Through Joseph's trials and triumphs, God preserved the family line through which the
Messiah would eventually come. Joseph himself recognized God's hand in his life, telling his brothers,
"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the
saving of many lives."
Moses: The Reluctant Deliverer
Key Scripture: Exodus 1-40, Deuteronomy
The Story: Born during Egypt's oppression of the Israelites and saved from death as a baby, Moses grew
up in Pharaoh's household. After killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew, Moses fled to Midian
where he lived as a shepherd for 40 years. God called him through a burning bush to return to Egypt and
demand that Pharaoh release the Israelites from slavery. After God sent ten devastating plagues, Pharaoh
finally relented. Moses then led the people through the Red Sea and received the Ten Commandments at
Mount Sinai. Though Moses was not permitted to enter the Promised Land due to disobedience, he
faithfully led God's people for 40 years in the wilderness.
His Faith in Action: Moses demonstrated transformative faith by:
Overcoming his own insecurities and speech difficulties to confront Pharaoh
Trusting God to provide for over a million people in the barren wilderness
Interceding for the people when they rebelled against God
Leading with humility, described as the meekest man on earth
Life Lesson: Moses teaches us that God equips those He calls, working through our weaknesses rather
than our strengths. His life shows that leadership requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to
stand between God and the people.
God's Power: Through Moses, God demonstrated His power over all creation and His commitment to
His covenant people. Moses experienced God's presence in unprecedented ways, speaking with Him
"face to face, as a man speaks with his friend."
Joshua: Courage to Conquer
Key Scripture: Joshua 1-24
The Story: After serving as Moses' assistant for decades, Joshua was commissioned to lead the Israelites
into the Promised Land. Under his leadership, they crossed the Jordan River on dry ground, conquered
Jericho when its walls miraculously collapsed, and defeated numerous Canaanite kings to claim their
inheritance. Joshua faithfully distributed the land among the tribes and, before his death, challenged the
people to renew their covenant with God.
His Faith in Action: Joshua demonstrated courageous faith by:
Bringing back a positive report when he was one of twelve spies sent to explore Canaan
Trusting God's unusual battle strategies, such as marching around Jericho
Leading with conviction and declaring, "As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD"
Remaining faithful to his calling into old age
Life Lesson: Joshua shows us that success comes through obedience to God's word and courage to face
seemingly impossible obstacles. His life reminds us that one person's faithfulness can impact an entire
nation.
God's Presence: Throughout Joshua's leadership, God's presence went before the people. His life
demonstrates the truth of God's promise: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be
discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Ruth: Loyal Love and Redemption
Key Scripture: Book of Ruth
The Story: When famine struck Bethlehem, Elimelech and his wife Naomi moved to Moab with their two
sons, who married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. After all three men died, Naomi decided to return
to Bethlehem. Though Orpah stayed in Moab, Ruth insisted on going with Naomi, declaring her famous
words of loyalty. In Bethlehem, Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi's husband.
Through Ruth's faithfulness and Naomi's guidance, Boaz fulfilled his role as kinsman-redeemer by
marrying Ruth. Their son Obed became the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth in the lineage of
Jesus Christ.
Her Faith in Action: Ruth demonstrated extraordinary faith by:
Leaving her homeland to follow Naomi and embrace Naomi's God
Working humbly and diligently to provide for herself and her mother-in-law
Trusting in God's provision in a foreign land where she was an outsider
Life Lesson: Ruth's story teaches us about loyal love, the value of hard work, and God's care for
foreigners and widows. Her life shows how ordinary faithfulness can become part of God's extraordinary
plan of redemption.
God's Providence: Though God is rarely mentioned directly in the book of Ruth, His providential hand is
evident throughout the story. Through Ruth's life, we see how God works through ordinary circumstances
to accomplish His purposes across generations.
David: A Heart After God
Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 16 - 1 Kings 2, Psalms
The Story: The youngest son of Jesse, David was anointed by the prophet Samuel to be king while still a
shepherd boy. His defeat of the giant Goliath with only a sling and stone catapulted him to national
attention. Though King Saul tried to kill him out of jealousy, David refused multiple opportunities to harm
Saul. After Saul's death, David united the kingdom of Israel and established Jerusalem as its capital.
Despite his great sin with Bathsheba and its tragic consequences, David repented sincerely and continued
to serve God. Known as both a mighty warrior and a skillful musician, David composed many of the
psalms that have guided worship for thousands of years.
His Faith in Action: David demonstrated passionate faith by:
Facing Goliath with confidence that "the battle is the LORD's"
Sparing Saul's life out of respect for "the LORD's anointed"
Dancing before the Lord with all his might when the Ark was brought to Jerusalem
Responding to correction with genuine repentance
Praising God in every circumstance, whether in victory or hiding in caves
Life Lesson: David's life teaches us that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances. His
story reminds us that even people "after God's own heart" can fall into serious sin, but true repentance
opens the door to restoration.
God's Promise: God established a covenant with David, promising that his throne would be established
forever. This promise ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the eternal King who came from
David's lineage.
Esther: For Such a Time as This
Key Scripture: Book of Esther
The Story: When Queen Vashti was deposed, Esther, a young Jewish woman living in exile in Persia, was
chosen as the new queen without revealing her Jewish identity. When the king's advisor Haman plotted
to destroy all the Jews, Esther's cousin Mordecai urged her to intercede with the king. Though
approaching the king uninvited could result in death, Esther courageously did so after asking the Jews to
fast and pray. The king received her favorably, Haman's plot was exposed, and the Jewish people were
saved. The celebration of this deliverance became the festival of Purim.
Her Faith in Action: Esther demonstrated strategic faith by:
Preparing herself through fasting and prayer before taking action
Risking her life to advocate for her people
Using wisdom in how and when to reveal crucial information
Embracing her position of influence for God's purposes
Life Lesson: Esther teaches us that God often places us in positions of influence "for such a time as this."
Her story shows that courage doesn't mean absence of fear, but action despite fear.
God's Protection: Though God's name is never mentioned in the book of Esther, His sovereign
protection of His people is the central theme. Esther's story demonstrates how God works behind the
scenes, using ordinary people to accomplish His purposes.
Daniel: Unwavering Integrity
Key Scripture: Book of Daniel
The Story: Taken to Babylon as a young man when Jerusalem fell, Daniel determined not to defile himself
with the king's food and wine. His wisdom and ability to interpret dreams earned him high positions
under several kings and empires. When a decree forbade prayer to anyone except the king, Daniel
continued his practice of praying three times daily to God, resulting in being thrown into a den of lions.
God shut the lions' mouths, and Daniel emerged unharmed. Throughout his long life in exile, Daniel
remained faithful to God and received remarkable visions about future kingdoms and the coming
Messiah.
His Faith in Action: Daniel demonstrated consistent faith by:
Maintaining his Jewish identity and practices in a pagan culture
Standing firm in his convictions even when it threatened his life
Serving with excellence and integrity in every position
Remaining faithful to prayer throughout his life
Trusting God's protection in the lions' den
Life Lesson: Daniel shows us how to live with integrity in a culture that doesn't share our values. His life
teaches us to cultivate both wisdom and courage, excelling in our work while never compromising our
commitment to God.
God's Sovereignty: Throughout Daniel's life and visions, the sovereignty of God over all kingdoms and
history is repeatedly emphasized. Daniel witnessed the rise and fall of empires while trusting in the God
whose kingdom would never end.
Elijah: Boldness in a Corrupt Culture
Key Scripture: 1 Kings 17 - 2 Kings 2
The Story: During the reign of wicked King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, Elijah boldly proclaimed God's
word, announcing a drought as judgment on Israel's idolatry. God miraculously provided for Elijah
through ravens and then through a widow whose oil and flour never ran out. In a dramatic showdown on
Mount Carmel, Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to demonstrate whose god was real. When God
answered with fire consuming Elijah's water-drenched sacrifice, the people acknowledged, "The LORD—
he is God!" Despite this victory, Elijah later fled from Jezebel's threats and experienced God's gentle
presence in "a still small voice." After training his successor Elisha, Elijah was taken to heaven in a
whirlwind.
His Faith in Action: Elijah demonstrated courageous faith by:
Standing alone against hundreds of false prophets
Speaking truth to powerful and dangerous leaders
Trusting God for daily provision during the drought
Praying with confidence for God to demonstrate His power
Life Lesson: Elijah teaches us that even spiritual giants can experience discouragement after great
victories. His life reminds us that God often works in unexpected ways and that our perception of being
"alone" in our faith is usually incorrect—God always preserves His faithful remnant.
God's Power: Throughout Elijah's ministry, God demonstrated His power over nature, false gods, and
even death. Elijah's life points to God's authority over all creation and His commitment to make Himself
known.
Applying Their Faith to Our Lives
These heroes of the Old Testament were not perfect people—they had flaws, made mistakes, and
sometimes struggled with doubt. Yet God worked powerfully through their lives because they trusted
Him and were willing to obey, often at great personal cost.
Their stories remind us that:
1. Faith requires action - True faith is not just belief, but belief that changes how we live.
2. God uses ordinary people - None of these heroes were born extraordinary; they became
remarkable through their response to God's call.
3. Faithfulness matters more than success - God's definition of success often differs from the world's.
4. God's plans unfold across generations - Many of these heroes never saw the full impact of their
faithfulness.
5. Courage comes from knowing God's character - Understanding who God is gives us strength to
face whatever challenges come our way.
As Hebrews 11 reminds us, these heroes of faith "were all commended for their faith, yet none of them
received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together
with us would they be made perfect."
Their stories point forward to Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero who fulfilled God's promises and made a way
for us to be reconciled to God. As we learn from these Old Testament heroes, we're invited to join our
own stories to God's greater story—living by faith, trusting His promises, and participating in His
redemptive work in the world.
Discussion Questions
1. Which Old Testament hero do you relate to most, and why?
2. What obstacles did these heroes face, and how did their faith help them overcome?
3. How did God work through the weaknesses or mistakes of these heroes?
4. What patterns do you see in how God called and used these individuals?
5. Which of these stories challenges you most in your own faith journey?
Activities to Explore These Heroes Further
1. Timeline Creation: Create a timeline placing these heroes in chronological order, noting how their
stories connect.
2. Character Study: Choose one hero and read all the Bible passages about them, noting their
strengths, weaknesses, and growth.
3. Modern Parallels: Identify modern-day examples of people who have demonstrated similar faith
characteristics.
4. Creative Expression: Draw, paint, or write a poem inspired by one of these hero stories.
5. Faith Application: Select one quality demonstrated by these heroes that you want to develop in your
own life. Create a practical plan for growth in this area.
