Now That’s a Good Question…
I was once asked, “What is faith?” In light of current discussions dealing with ‘communities of faith,’ ‘faith systems,’ and ‘faith-based organizations,’ there are those who are justifiably confused as to what faith really is. The answer to this question is significant – eternally significant.
Realizing that this term is culturally intended to have a very broad definition (one would expect this in an eclectic culture), we can’t escape its religious connotation and background. The very fact that this word is thrown around when dealing with religious groups would indicate that even a secular culture understands this. Our society seems to prefer that this word be viewed as a religious ‘term’ with little further description. Biblically speaking, this will not suffice.
Depending on the context, faith has two primary meanings in Scripture. First, faith can be described as trust in God. This ‘faith’ is commonly misunderstood and misrepresented. Second, faith can be described as the beliefs of a person or church. Many churches today still have a Confession of Faith. This document outlines the doctrinal positions of the congregation and is (should be) based upon the Bible. Due to the confusion regarding the first description of faith, let’s take a closer look at it.
The Bible states that faith is necessary for individuals to please God. Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” This passage speaks of trust regarding God’s existence and character. If a person doesn’t believe in God, as He is revealed in the Bible, then he has no faith. He may have faith in himself, the government, or just be extremely optimistic but God doesn’t recognize any of these as true Biblical faith. Today many are promoting belief in self and calling it faith, yet they’re mistaken as far as God is concerned. To have real faith, one must direct their trust toward the God of the Bible.
God’s promises, power, wisdom, and character are what we trust. The Gospels (the first 4 books of the NT) identify faith as trust in the person, work, and authority of Christ Jesus in 53 texts and as trust in the Gospel, the promises of God (along with God’s faithful fulfillment of them), and the Word of God in 14 texts. If we don’t keep these clear Biblical descriptions of faith before us, it’s easy to misplace our trust and begin shifting our focus. A foreign definition of faith then emerges.
Faith isn’t power, or a force. It’s not a tool we use to get what we want. Faith isn’t a formula by which we pray. It’s not presumption based upon our desires or emotions. It’s not general optimism. Unfortunately many have turned faith into such things and have caused others to look to faith rather than God. Faith then becomes an idol.
Much that passes for ‘faith’ today would not pass muster in God’s eyes. For God, faith is entirely wrapped up in trusting Christ. You must trust Christ; to reject Him is to reject God. This is where the word becomes eternally significant. If you have faith in Jesus, you have eternal life. If you don’t, you don’t. Are you a ‘person of faith?’