InstaStudy

Understanding Faith: By Faith vs. Through Faith

This study explores the nuances of 'by faith' and 'through faith' as presented in scripture, examining how these expressions relate to our salvation, spiritual walk, and the power of God in our lives.

1. The Foundation of Salvation: By Grace Through Faith

1.1 Grace as God's Initiative

Verses: Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:24
  • Salvation originates entirely from God's unmerited favor.
  • It is not earned by human works or merit.

1.2 Faith as the Means of Reception

Verses: Romans 10:9-10; Acts 2:38
  • Faith is the human response that appropriates God's grace.
  • It involves believing in the Lord Jesus Christ and obeying His commands for salvation.

1.3 The Unity of Grace and Faith

Verses: Ephesians 2:8; Galatians 3:26
  • Grace provides salvation; faith receives it.
  • Neither can be separated; they work together in the salvation experience.

2. The Active Nature of Faith: By Faith We Live

2.1 Faith as a Principle of Life

Verses: Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38
  • The righteous person lives by faith, not by sight or human understanding.
  • This faith is a continuous, active trust in God's word and promises.

2.2 Faith as the Basis for Action

Verses: Hebrews 11:6; James 2:17-18
  • Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
  • True faith is demonstrated through obedience and works.

2.3 Faith in Overcoming the World

Verses: 1 John 5:4; Matthew 17:20
  • Faith empowers believers to overcome challenges and obstacles.
  • It is the victory that overcomes the world.

3. The Source and Object of Faith: Through Faith in Jesus Christ

3.1 Jesus Christ as the Author and Finisher of Faith

Verses: Hebrews 12:2; John 1:12
  • Our faith originates from and is perfected by Jesus Christ.
  • He is the one who enables us to believe and sustains our belief.

3.2 The Singular Object of Our Faith

Verses: Acts 4:12; John 14:6
  • Salvation is found in no other name than Jesus Christ.
  • Faith is directed solely towards Him as the one true God and Savior.

3.3 Access to God Through Christ

Verses: Ephesians 3:12; Romans 5:2
  • Through faith in Jesus, we gain access to God's presence and grace.
  • He is the mediator and the way to the Father.

4. The Outworking of Faith: Living a Life of Faith

4.1 Justification Through Faith

Verses: Romans 5:1; Galatians 2:16
  • We are declared righteous before God not by works of the law, but through faith in Jesus Christ.
  • This justification brings peace with God.

4.2 Sanctification Through Faith

Verses: Acts 26:18; Galatians 2:20
  • Faith is essential for our ongoing spiritual growth and separation unto God.
  • We live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us.

4.3 The Power of God Manifested Through Faith

Verses: Mark 11:23-24; Luke 17:6
  • Faith unlocks God's power to perform miracles and answer prayers.
  • Even a small amount of faith can move mountains.

4.4 The Call to Enduring Faith

Verses: Hebrews 11:1; Hebrews 6:12
  • Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
  • We are called to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.