Biblical Answer

The Essence of Faith

Faith, as the Bible teaches it, is not just a intellectual assent or a vague wishful thinking. Rather, it is a deep trust and reliance on God's character and will. The Bible describes faith as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). This means that faith is not just about knowing facts, but about approaching God with confidence in His power and character. In fact, faith is more than intellectual assent and involves approaching God with confidence in His character and will, as revealed in Scripture. It is necessary to have faith in God's power, as Jesus commands his disciples to have faith in God's power (Matthew 17:20).

The Foundation of Faith

The foundation of faith is not just about knowing facts, but about trusting and relying on God's character and will. The Bible teaches that faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ (Romans 10:17). This means that faith is rooted in a deep understanding of God's character and will, as revealed in Scripture. Paul says, "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17 NASB). When people have true information about God's character and will, they can have faith in Him. This is why the Bible says that faith comes from hearing the word of Christ.

The Practice of Faith

Faith is not just about knowing facts or trusting in God's character and will, but also about practicing it in our lives. The Bible teaches that faith works by love (Galatians 5:6). This means that faith is not just a static concept, but a dynamic and living reality that shapes our actions and decisions. When we have faith in God, we are able to approach Him with confidence and trust, and we are able to live out our lives in a way that reflects His character and will. As the Bible says, "Faith works by love" (Galatians 5:6). This is why faith is so essential for living a life that is pleasing to God.