THE REALITY OF FAITH

What is faith? Is it belief? Is it trust? Is it both or much more?

What kind of faith changes a person?

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
                                  -Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)

We all have faith! We all believe in something. What do you have faith in? What are you putting your faith in and trusting in? Is your faith in your intellect, your strength, your career, the government? There is only one who will not fail you. There is only one who is the same yesterday, today and forever...JESUS!

Is your faith in Jesus really stronger than your faith in other things? Ouch, that question may hurt a little if you are truly honest.

Our faith is not primarily in what Jesus said. Many know Jesus' teachings forwards and backwards but still remain unchanged. Our faith must be anchored in what Jesus did. He rose from the grave! The Gospel is the Resurrection. It was after the resurrection of Jesus that his followers showed great courage and boldness under persecution. It was after the resurrection that the apostles performed many miracles. It was after the resurrection that the church changed the world.

What evidence is there in your life that that you have faith in Jesus? What change has taken place in your life? Do you share His story with others? How has your faith helped to change others?

How has the congregation you are a part of changed the world (your community)?

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

Is your faith planted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ?

What is the reaction or response of true faith? First we must get rid of the conditional faith we are carrying..."As long as...", "I'll believe if...". To have true Christian faith one cannot dictate conditions to God but must trust fully in Jesus Christ.

You must fully worship Jesus and recognize him as Thomas did, "My Lord and my God".

If you truly want the benefits of faith in the Lord then you must come to understand that only in the power of God can you be genuinely changed. God is a powerful change agent for those willing to be transformed from sinners to saints.