Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Hebrews 11:26

"accounting the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt: for he looked unto the recompense of reward." — Hebrews 11:26 (ASV)

Here the point made in v.25 is seen from another angle. While Moses knew what “the treasures of Egypt” were worth, he counted “the disgrace for the sake of Christ” as great riches. Most likely the author thought of Christ as identified in some way with the people of God in OT times (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:4). Isaiah could say of God, “In all their distress he too was distressed” (Isaiah 53:9). Similarly, Christ could be said to be involved with the people.

When Moses suffered, he suffered with Christ—the same Christ whom the writer is encouraging his readers to identify with. It no doubt carried great weight with them to realize that they were being called to participate in the same kind of experiences and attitudes the great Moses had. Moses looked forward to the “reward” (GK 3632). He was not deceived by the glitter of the Egyptian court and the security of worldly safety. History, of course, has vindicated him. The choice Moses made has resulted in his influence still being felt.