Faith: The Divine Gift Transforming Lives

 

Summary

In this exploration of faith, we delve into its profound significance in the Christian life, emphasizing its role as the channel through which salvation and all spiritual blessings are received. Faith is not merely a natural faculty or a simple intellectual assent to truth; it is a divine gift, wrought by God, that involves the whole person—mind, heart, and will. It is through faith that we are linked to the fullness of Christ, enabling us to appropriate the salvation He offers.

Faith is distinct from mere belief or intellectual assent. While belief is an essential component, true faith also encompasses trust and commitment. It is not enough to acknowledge the truths of Christianity intellectually; one must also trust in them and commit oneself to them. This commitment is demonstrated through actions, as faith without works is dead. The biblical examples of Abraham and others illustrate that faith often involves hoping against hope, trusting in God's promises even when circumstances seem impossible.

The origin of faith is divine; it is a gift from God, not something we can muster on our own. This is why it is crucial to understand the doctrines of regeneration and the work of the Holy Spirit, as they lay the foundation for faith. Faith is called forth by the Word of God, and it is through hearing and receiving the truth of the gospel that faith is born and nurtured.

Faith is not contrary to reason, but it transcends it. While reason can lead us to the threshold of faith, it is faith that allows us to accept divine revelation and enter into a relationship with God. This acceptance is not irrational but supra-rational, acknowledging the limits of human understanding and submitting to the wisdom of God.

In summary, faith is a comprehensive response to God's revelation, involving knowledge, trust, and commitment. It is essential for salvation and is characterized by a deep conviction and a life transformed by the truth of the gospel.

Key Takeaways:

- Faith as a Divine Gift: Faith is not a natural faculty but a gift from God, wrought in us by the Holy Spirit. It is through faith that we are linked to Christ and receive salvation. This divine origin underscores the importance of understanding doctrines like regeneration, which lay the groundwork for faith. [12:16]

- The Comprehensive Nature of Faith: True faith involves the whole person—mind, heart, and will. It is not merely intellectual assent but includes trust and commitment, leading to actions that reflect one's beliefs. Faith without works is dead, as genuine faith transforms one's life. [22:44]

- Faith and Reason: Faith transcends reason, acknowledging the limits of human understanding while accepting divine revelation. It is not irrational but supra-rational, allowing us to embrace truths that reason alone cannot fully comprehend. [35:12]

- The Role of Scripture in Faith: Faith is called forth by the Word of God. It is through hearing and receiving the truth of the gospel that faith is born and nurtured. This highlights the importance of preaching and teaching the Word to foster faith. [18:31]

- Essential Doctrines for Faith: Certain truths are essential to the integrity of faith, such as the holiness and justice of God, the sinful condition of humanity, and the person and work of Christ. These core doctrines form the foundation of genuine Christian faith. [43:02]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:09] - Introduction to Early Recording
- [00:39] - Conversion: Repentance and Faith
- [01:13] - Importance of Faith in Scripture
- [02:41] - Central Principles of Faith
- [03:52] - Different Uses of the Word Faith
- [06:10] - What is Faith?
- [09:47] - Faith vs. Natural Faculty
- [12:16] - Faith as a Gift of God
- [16:12] - Faith and the Word of God
- [19:04] - Elements of Faith
- [22:44] - Faith Involves the Whole Person
- [33:03] - Faith and Reason
- [37:33] - Faith and Knowledge
- [43:02] - Essential Doctrines for Faith

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Significance of Faith

Bible Reading:
1. Romans 10:10-17
2. Hebrews 11:13
3. Ephesians 2:8-9

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Observation Questions:

1. According to Romans 10:10-17, what is the relationship between hearing the Word of God and the development of faith? How does this passage emphasize the importance of preaching? [18:31]

2. In Hebrews 11:13, what does it mean that the people were "persuaded" of the promises they had not yet received? How does this relate to the concept of faith as described in the sermon? [19:57]

3. Ephesians 2:8-9 describes faith as a gift from God. How does this passage support the sermon’s assertion that faith is not a natural faculty but a divine gift? [12:16]

4. What examples from the sermon illustrate the difference between intellectual assent and true faith? How is this distinction important for understanding the nature of faith? [22:44]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the sermon explain the role of the Holy Spirit in the development of faith? Why is understanding the doctrine of regeneration important for comprehending faith as a divine gift? [12:16]

2. The sermon mentions that faith involves the whole person—mind, heart, and will. How does this comprehensive nature of faith challenge the idea of faith as merely intellectual belief? [26:32]

3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that faith transcends reason? How does this concept of "supra-rational" faith affect our understanding of divine revelation? [35:12]

4. How does the sermon use the example of Abraham to illustrate the nature of biblical faith? What does "hoping against hope" mean in the context of faith? [10:58]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own faith journey. Can you identify moments when you relied on intellectual assent rather than true faith? How can you move towards a more comprehensive faith involving trust and commitment? [22:44]

2. The sermon emphasizes that faith is a gift from God. How does this understanding affect your approach to nurturing your faith? What practices can you incorporate to be more receptive to this divine gift? [12:16]

3. Consider the role of Scripture in your faith life. How can you prioritize hearing and receiving the Word of God to strengthen your faith? What specific steps can you take this week to engage more deeply with Scripture? [18:31]

4. The sermon discusses the importance of trusting in God's promises even when circumstances seem impossible. Is there a situation in your life where you need to "hope against hope"? How can you apply Abraham's example to your current challenges? [10:58]

5. How does the idea that faith involves the whole person—mind, heart, and will—challenge your current understanding of faith? What changes can you make to ensure your faith is reflected in your actions and decisions? [26:32]

6. The sermon suggests that faith transcends reason. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to accept divine revelation? How can you practice submitting to God's wisdom beyond your understanding? [35:12]

7. Reflect on the essential doctrines mentioned in the sermon. Are there any core beliefs you need to explore further to strengthen the foundation of your faith? How can you seek guidance or resources to deepen your understanding? [43:02]

Devotional

Day 1: Faith as a Divine Gift
Faith is not a mere human ability or intellectual agreement with religious truths; it is a divine gift bestowed by God through the Holy Spirit. This gift of faith is the means by which believers are united with Christ and receive salvation. Understanding the divine origin of faith is crucial, as it highlights the importance of doctrines such as regeneration, which prepare the heart to receive this gift. Faith is not something that can be generated by human effort; it is a supernatural work of God in the believer's life. This understanding should lead to a deeper appreciation of the role of the Holy Spirit in nurturing and sustaining faith. [12:16]

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, ESV)

Reflection: Consider a time when you tried to rely on your own strength to believe or trust in God. How can you shift your perspective to see faith as a gift from God rather than a personal achievement?


Day 2: The Comprehensive Nature of Faith
True faith involves the entire person—mind, heart, and will. It is not limited to intellectual agreement with Christian doctrines but includes trust and commitment that lead to action. Genuine faith is transformative, resulting in a life that reflects one's beliefs through deeds. The biblical assertion that "faith without works is dead" underscores the necessity of living out one's faith in practical ways. This comprehensive nature of faith calls believers to engage their whole being in their relationship with God, demonstrating their faith through love, service, and obedience. [22:44]

"So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead." (James 2:17, ESV)

Reflection: Identify one area in your life where your actions do not align with your professed beliefs. What practical steps can you take this week to bring your actions in line with your faith?


Day 3: Faith and Reason
Faith transcends reason, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding while embracing divine revelation. It is not irrational but supra-rational, allowing believers to accept truths that reason alone cannot fully comprehend. While reason can lead one to the threshold of faith, it is faith that enables acceptance of God's wisdom and revelation. This understanding encourages believers to trust in God's greater wisdom, even when it surpasses human logic or understanding. Faith invites believers to submit to God's wisdom, recognizing that His ways and thoughts are higher than ours. [35:12]

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a situation where you struggle to understand God's plan. How can you practice trusting in God's wisdom, even when it doesn't make sense to you?


Day 4: The Role of Scripture in Faith
Faith is called forth by the Word of God, as it is through hearing and receiving the truth of the gospel that faith is born and nurtured. The importance of preaching and teaching the Word is paramount in fostering faith within the community of believers. Scripture serves as the foundation upon which faith is built, providing the truths necessary for spiritual growth and maturity. Engaging with the Bible regularly allows believers to deepen their understanding of God's promises and strengthens their faith as they encounter His truth. [18:31]

"So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17, ESV)

Reflection: How can you incorporate more intentional time in Scripture into your daily routine to nurture your faith? What specific steps will you take to make this a priority?


Day 5: Essential Doctrines for Faith
Certain core doctrines are essential to the integrity of faith, such as the holiness and justice of God, the sinful condition of humanity, and the person and work of Christ. These foundational truths form the basis of genuine Christian faith and are crucial for a proper understanding of salvation. Embracing these doctrines helps believers to grasp the depth of God's love and the significance of Christ's sacrifice. A firm grasp of these essential truths equips believers to stand firm in their faith and to share the gospel with others effectively. [43:02]

"For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures." (1 Corinthians 15:3-4, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on your understanding of the essential doctrines of the Christian faith. How can you deepen your knowledge of these truths to strengthen your faith and witness to others?

Quotes


Faith is after all the instrument or the channel by which all salvation that is in Christ Jesus enters into us and we are enable to appropriate it it is the thing that links us to the fullness that dwells in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that is Faith in its Essence. [00:02:56]

Faith is not a natural faculty that every man has and they say you're all was exercising faith in your life you couldn't live for a day without exercising Faith these are the illustrations they use you go by train from London to Brighton and immediately are exercising faith in the engine and in the engine driver and in the rails and in the sleepers and the odd boats and nuts and so on. [00:06:46]

Faith in thy power thou seest I have for thou this Faith Hast wrought it's God who's wrought it in him it's not a natural faculty that he's always had and Every Man Has It's God who's wrought it dead Souls thou callest from their Gra grave and speakest worlds from not but listen in hope against all human hope self desperate I believe. [00:10:01]

The origin of faith and the answer is it is the gift of God and again you see the importance of taking doctrines in the right order how important it is we should have taken regeneration and so on before coming to Faith this again is the gift of God now here we come to a controversial point take the statement in Ephesians. [00:11:48]

Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the the word of God now that is the way in which faith comes into being and into operation it is called forth by the word of God by the truth by the gospel by the message preached and so Paul exalts Timothy preach the word and it's the same everywhere right through the scriptures. [00:18:31]

Faith also includes an element of trust an element of confidence a Readiness to commit oneself to it there it is again in that very 13th verse of that 11th of Hebrews they died in faith not having received the promises but having seen them a far off were persuaded of them and they embraced them and confess that they were strangers and pilgrims in the earth. [00:21:19]

Faith without works is dead and there's no doubt about it my friend it's no use you're saying you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ if you're still living a worldly life that's what it comes to I not interested in what experiences people may give if they're still living a worldly life and a worldly people there is no point in their claiming to have faith and to have belief. [00:30:47]

Faith is not a matter of reason you know there are people who are teaching that today there's been a very popular religious writer he's not so popular now as he was until 3 years ago but his popularity began about 14 years ago the Discerning will know to whom I'm referring who doesn't hesitate to say that if a man reasons truly he's bound to become a Christian he can reason himself into Christianity. [00:33:05]

Faith is Not Mere reason but on the other hand it isn't contrary to reason it isn't unreasonable it isn't irrational that's the charge of against us oh they said but what you are teaching is a kind of irrationality you say it isn't a matter of Reason well very well then is it oppos the reason no it isn't it isn't reason it isn't cont reason what is it then Supra reason. [00:34:50]

Faith is accepting this Revelation I like to think of it more and more like this faith means that I deliberately shut myself down to this book I refuse to philosophy I refuse to ask certain questions people are always asking them they want to understand the doctrine of the Trinity you can't you've just got to accept it you'll never understand it your mind is reason can't grasp it it's too great it's too Divine. [00:35:52]

There are certain truths which are absolutely essential and vital to the Integrity of the Gospel there are other truths which are not essential to the Integrity of the Gospel but they are essential to the Symmetry and the Perfection of the Gospel may I explain and expound what that means I am saying that there is a certain irreducible minimum and that we must contend for that. [00:42:05]

Faith isn't a vague feeling Faith isn't a vague desire to have certain blessings from Christ faith is a belief of this gospel this word of God this message this thing that these apostles were preaching the thing they're right about and it is an acceptance a belief of that an Ascent of that persuasion of that that moves me and makes me do something that's faith and I must know what I believe and whom I believe and what I believe concerning him. [00:46:07]

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Transcript
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