InstaStudy

By Faith, and Through Faith: A Journey of Trust and Transformation

This study explores the profound biblical concept of faith, examining its nature, its source, and its transformative power in the life of a believer. We will delve into how faith is initiated, sustained, and ultimately leads to a deeper relationship with the one true God, revealed in Jesus Christ.

1. Understanding the Nature of Faith

1.1 Definition of Faith

Verses: Hebrews 11:1; Romans 10:17
  • Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
  • It is a confident assurance in God's promises and a deep conviction.
  • Faith is not mere intellectual assent but a profound trust in God.

1.2 The Source of Faith

Verses: Romans 10:17; Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 1:29
  • Faith comes by hearing the Word of God, which is God's revelation to us.
  • It is a gift from God, yet also a choice we make to believe and respond.
  • God initiates faith, and we are called to respond in trust.

1.3 The Importance of Faith

Verses: Hebrews 11:6; Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11
  • Without faith, it is impossible to please God in any aspect of our lives.
  • Faith is essential for salvation and for living a life pleasing to Him.
  • It is the foundational principle upon which our walk with God is built.

2. The Object of Our Faith: The One True God

2.1 God's Singular Nature

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Isaiah 44:6; Mark 12:29
  • There is one God, and He is Lord of all creation.
  • He is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer of the universe.
  • Our faith is exclusively in Him, for there is no other God.

2.2 Jesus Christ: God Manifest in Flesh

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6
  • Jesus is the visible manifestation of the invisible God, the Word made flesh.
  • In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, completely and entirely.
  • He is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, all revealed in one divine being.

2.3 Faith in the Name of Jesus

Verses: Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11; John 14:13-14
  • Salvation, healing, and power are found exclusively in the name of Jesus.
  • His name represents His authority, character, and complete redemptive work.
  • We are to believe in and call upon His name for all spiritual blessings.

3. Receiving and Living by Faith

3.1 Hearing and Believing the Word

Verses: Romans 10:14; John 5:24; James 1:22
  • Faith begins with hearing the gospel message of Jesus Christ.
  • It requires a receptive heart to believe what God has spoken through His Word.
  • This belief is not passive but leads to active obedience and transformation.

3.2 Repentance and Obedience

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; James 2:17-20
  • True faith involves genuine repentance from sin and a turning to God.
  • It is demonstrated through obedience to His commands and His revealed will.
  • Faith without corresponding works and obedience is considered dead.

3.3 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
  • As an act of faith and obedience, believers are commanded to be baptized.
  • This is done in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
  • It signifies identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.

3.4 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 2:38-39; John 7:38-39
  • Faith opens the door to receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit, the promise of the Father.
  • This infilling empowers believers for a life of service, holiness, and spiritual gifts.
  • It is often accompanied by speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.

4. The Fruits and Power of Faith

4.1 Righteousness and Justification

Verses: Romans 3:28; Romans 4:5; Galatians 2:16
  • We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law.
  • Faith is credited to us as righteousness, bringing us into a right standing with God.
  • This divine declaration of righteousness is a gift received through belief.

4.2 Healing and Deliverance

Verses: Mark 11:24; James 5:15; Matthew 9:22
  • Faith can bring physical healing to our bodies and deliverance from spiritual bondage.
  • Jesus often commended individuals for their faith in receiving healing and miracles.
  • Through faith, we can access God's power for restoration and freedom.

4.3 Overcoming the World

Verses: 1 John 5:4; Ephesians 6:16; Romans 12:21
  • Our faith is the victory that overcomes the world and its challenges.
  • Through faith, we can conquer fear, doubt, and the temptations of life.
  • It empowers us to stand firm against the schemes of the adversary.

4.4 Living a Victorious Life

Verses: Romans 8:37; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 10:38
  • Faith enables us to walk in divine power and authority in our daily lives.
  • It empowers us to live a life that glorifies God and demonstrates His goodness.
  • We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us, by living a life of faith.