InstaStudy

By Faith vs. Through Faith: A Scriptural Exploration

This Bible study explores the nuanced distinctions between 'by faith' and 'through faith' as presented in scripture, examining how these phrases illuminate the believer's active response and God's divine provision, all centered on the person of Jesus Christ.

1. The Nature of Faith: A Foundational Understanding

1.1 Faith as a Divine Gift

Verses: Ephesians 2:8; Romans 12:3
  • Faith originates with God, not merely human effort.
  • It is the foundational principle for our relationship with the Creator.
  • God grants a measure of faith to every believer.

1.2 Faith as a Human Response

Verses: Hebrews 11:6; James 2:17-18
  • Our faith is an active trust and confident reliance on God.
  • It must be demonstrated through obedience and corresponding actions.
  • Without faith, it is impossible to please God.

2. 'By Faith': The Believer's Active Obedience and Trust

2.1 Obedience Initiated by Faith

Verses: Hebrews 11:8; Romans 1:5
  • Faith empowers us to obey God's commands and divine leading.
  • It is the driving force behind our walk with God, as seen in Abraham's example.
  • The obedience of faith leads to a transformed life.

2.2 Righteousness Achieved 'By Faith'

Verses: Romans 3:28; Romans 4:3
  • We are declared righteous and justified through our faith in Jesus Christ.
  • This righteousness is not earned by works of the law but received through belief.
  • Faith is the instrument by which we appropriate God's righteousness.

2.3 Living and Walking 'By Faith'

Verses: 2 Corinthians 5:7; Galatians 2:20
  • Our daily life is to be guided by faith, not by what we see or feel.
  • Faith sustains us through trials and challenges, trusting God's unseen hand.
  • It is a continuous state of reliance on God's promises and character.

3. 'Through Faith': The Channel of Divine Grace and Power

3.1 Salvation Received 'Through Faith'

Verses: Ephesians 2:8; Romans 5:1-2
  • God's grace is the source of salvation, and faith is the channel through which it is received.
  • Salvation is a divine gift, accessed by believing in Jesus Christ.
  • It connects us to God's redemptive work and brings peace with Him.

3.2 Access to God 'Through Faith'

Verses: Romans 5:2; Ephesians 3:12
  • Faith provides direct and confident access to God's presence and grace.
  • It is the way we approach the Father, having boldness and assurance.
  • Through faith, we stand in God's favor and hope of glory.

3.3 Power and Miracles 'Through Faith'

Verses: Mark 11:23-24; Acts 3:16
  • Divine power flows through our faith, enabling the impossible.
  • Miracles are wrought by God through believing hearts and words.
  • Faith in the name of Jesus brings healing, deliverance, and supernatural intervention.

4. The Object of Our Faith: Jesus Christ, the One God

4.1 Jesus as the Author and Finisher of Faith

Verses: Hebrews 12:2; Colossians 1:17
  • Jesus is the originator and perfecter of our faith, setting the ultimate example.
  • He is the beginning and end of our spiritual journey and salvation.
  • Our faith is ultimately in Him, who holds all things together.

4.2 Faith in the Name of Jesus

Verses: Acts 4:12; Acts 2:38
  • Salvation, healing, and power are found exclusively in the name of Jesus.
  • Baptism in His name is essential for the remission of sins and receiving the Spirit.
  • His name represents His full authority, deity, and saving power.

4.3 Jesus: The Fullness of God Manifest

Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 14:9
  • In Jesus Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  • To see Jesus is to see the Father, for He is the complete manifestation of God.
  • Our faith is in the one true God, fully revealed in the person of Jesus.

5. Living a Life of Faith: Practical Application

5.1 Cultivating a Deeper Faith

Verses: Romans 10:17; Jude 1:20
  • Faith comes by hearing and continually hearing the Word of God.
  • We build up our most holy faith through prayer and spiritual disciplines.
  • Consistent engagement with scripture strengthens our trust in God.

5.2 Faith in Action: Works of Righteousness

Verses: James 2:22; Galatians 5:6
  • True, living faith is demonstrated through love and good works.
  • Faith without corresponding actions is dead and ineffective.
  • Our actions are a natural outflow and evidence of our inner faith.

5.3 Enduring 'By' and 'Through' Faith

Verses: Hebrews 10:38-39; 1 Peter 1:5
  • We persevere in our spiritual walk by faith, not shrinking back.
  • We are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
  • Our ultimate hope and eternal inheritance are secured through our enduring faith.