Subject: need for a bible-anyone |
Bible Note: A few notes on Faith. Part II: How do we know faith involves more than simple belief? 1) It is empirically true: From a person’s own experience and observation we know faith defines an absolute conviction where belief is passive. We believe the airplane is safe, but it is our faith in its airworthiness that allows us to fly from Seattle to NY, thus proving our belief. 2) By example, O.T. faith in God was proven by deeds. He 11:1-2 3) By N.T. command, Christians are called to action. -Ph2:12-15 (work out your salvation) - JA 2:14 (what use is it, my brethren, if a man says he has faith..) Why are Christians to be faithful? -Faithfulness equals obedience. See Jo14:21-24 -What is God’s law? Can it be found anywhere besides the N.T.? Scripture, or the Bible, is a reference manual for God’s people that teaches, and at the same time, demonstrates that only Christians will be saved! God’s word is truth (Jo 17:17) and all inclusive (i. e. there are no other routes to eternal life!) As our creator, he has made a covenant with us, or agreement. We must obey our part of the covenant if we are to expect our reward. What are the requirements of God’s Law? 1) Worship: Jo 4:23-24 (God is spirit) 2) Teach: MT 28:18-19 3) Furthering the love of brethren: Ro 14:19 (build up one another) 4) Support our families: 2Th 3:10 (if anyone will not work) Other items regarding faith: -We are protected by the power of God through faith for salvation. See 1 Pe 1:1-21 -Faithfulness is rewarded with greater responsibility for service and growth. See 1Ti 1:12-14 and Act 16:14. Lydia was a Christian (Baptized) and given the opportunity to provide shelter and food to Paul and Barnabas. -Everyone does not have the same degree of faith. See Ro 14:1-4. We each are growing at different rates, in respect to our level of faith. Our goal is not to judge one another in the degree of faith we have, but to encourage each other—especially not to hinder our growth (Ro 14:13). -Confidence is critical to faith. God hates cowards. To try and fail is a learning experience. To not try, because you fear failure, will result in spiritual death. He 10:38 -Faithfulness is ultimately rewarded with eternal life. See Rev 2:10-11 What we know: 1. Faith comes from being taught the mysteries of God. Ro 10:17 2. Christians are the stewards of the mysteries. 1Co 4:1 - Christ is the only head of the church. Ep1:22-23 - Christ’s kingdom, and thus rule, is occurring now. Co 1:13 3. We are to walk by faith, not sight. 2 Co 5:7 4. The love of God is synonymous with Obedience. Jo 14:21 5. We must prove we love Him. 2Tm 2:15 6. God’s Law requires us to do 4 things: Worship, Teach, Fellowship and support our own families. 7. If we do not obey God, we will be cut off from the tree of life. Jo 15:6 8. If we obey God, He will provide us with everything we need. 2Co9:8-9 For all who seek to do God's will, keep praying for guidance and God will be faithful. |