The message of the Bible is that salvation is by faith alone. The only way to be saved even from the beginning of human history was by faith alone. Abel demonstrated his faith by offering slain animals, “a better sacrifice.” Cain brought what he produced (works) and God was not pleased. The author has taken us from Abel all the way to the walls of Jericho. True faith is shown by obedience no matter how bizarre, unreasonable, unpopular, foolish or eve life-threatening. It has always been that way (Hebrews 10:38)