More About Belief
Faith lies at the heart of the Christian life. As the Bible says, “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). However, not all Christians agree on what faith truly means. Some believe faith is simply trusting that God exists. Others see belief as emotional or personal experience without the need for action.
What is Faith?
The Bible, though, defines faith differently. In Hebrews 11:1, it says, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” We build faith on our confidence in God and trust in His promises. True faith goes beyond belief; it must be active. James 2:17 teaches, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17).
Belief and Works
Many people misunderstand the connection between faith and works. Some believe salvation comes by faith alone, without any response. They often cite Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith.” While this verse shows salvation is a gift from God, it doesn’t teach that faith excludes action.
Obedience Matters
In contrast, the Bible links faith and obedience. In Mark 16:16, Jesus said, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.” Faith must motivate repentance, confession of Jesus as God’s Son, and baptism into Christ (Acts 2:38).
Other groups may teach that faith is passive. However, Scripture provides examples of active faith. Noah built the ark when warned by God (Hebrews 11:7). Abraham obeyed when called to sacrifice Isaac (James 2:21-22). They acted because they trusted God’s promises.
Faith isn’t just mental belief or feeling. It’s confidence in God that drives a life of obedience. Trust His Word, and let faithful actions show your belief.
Want to Know More about Belief?
If you want to know more about faith, here are a few more resources from the website. If you have more questions about faith, or you would like to talk with someone about your walk with the Lord, please email the website editor.
Saving Faith?
Saving faith is sadly an integral part of many mainstream churches today. It is also deadly to people that believe it and those they teach. As a concept, it is derived from the Calvinist doctrines of Unconditional Election and Perseverance of the Saints. To sum up the concept of ‘saving faith’ in a few words; it is something that the predestined to election receive upon hearing the word.
One Faith
The New Testament writers use the word faith in broader terms than simple belief in Jesus. Following Paul's conversion, the brethren observed, "He who formerly persecuted us now preaches THE FAITH which he once tried to destroy." (Galatians 1:23)
Faith and Works
“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works Can faith save him?” James 2:14
This question presented in the Scriptures nearly 2,000 years ago remains for many Bible students a point of confusion and contention. What does God really require of those that seek to serve Him? Is my faith enough, or is there something more? Should I simply trust in God’s ability to save, or do the works of my life affect whether or not the Lord will redeem me by his grace?
Unlocking the Manifold Wisdom of God Through the Church
Have you ever wondered how the church serves as a witness to the angelic host? Are you ready to discover the secret plan God hid for ages? Read this post to explore the profound mystery of Christ’s body.
Fellowship with God and the Power of Perfect Love
Do you ever wonder if your spiritual walk is truly aligned with the teachings of the apostles? Are you ready to trade your fear of judgment for the boldness of perfect love? Read this study on 1 John to discover how you can experience authentic fellowship with God today.
The Spirit and Evidence of the Unseen God
How can we know a God we have never seen? What role does the Holy Spirit play in proving God’s existence in our daily lives? Discover the powerful evidence of the unseen God through love and the Spirit.
God is Love: The Biblical Benchmark
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves…
How the Spirit of Truth Helps You Overcome
Are you struggling to discern truth from error in today’s world? Do you know how the Spirit of God empowers you to overcome spiritual threats? Read this post to find confidence in the Spirit of Truth today.
Why the Mystery of Christ Changed the World
What was the secret plan God kept hidden until the right moment in history? How did a prisoner in Rome change the course of the world forever? Dive into the mystery of Christ and see how God’s grace includes you.
The Antichrist is Already Here: Why We Must Test the Spirits
John commands believers to "test the spirits" to separate truth from the falsehood of "many false prophets." This essential discernment protects the church from demonic influence and the doctrines of Gnosticism.
The Power of Obedience: Why We Must Keep His Commandments
Explore the powerful connection between keeping God's commandments—believing in Jesus and loving others—and receiving answers to prayer, confidence, and assurance of the Holy Spirit's dwelling.
The Divine Design: You Are God’s Workmanship
Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be a "new creation" in Christ? Are you ready to discover the specific path of service God has designed uniquely for you? Read more to understand how your life can reflect the beauty of being God's workmanship.