Expert: Brian Thompson - 5/2/2003

Question
What is faith ?

Answer
Hi Becky

Let me first give you a biblical answer. Faith is mentioned 270 times in the Bible but most of the references are in the New Testament so we can look on Faith as a New Testament concept

Romans 12.3  For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.

You can see in this Scripture that Faith is a gift from God.

Hebrews 11:1  Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Faith is knowing that you know that you know even though reason may not support your belief. I cannot see God but I know that He exists. This is faith to know what cannot be discerned and proved physically.

Romans 10.17  Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.

Faith in God comes by hearing the message. The message spoken of here is the Word of God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

There are different types of faith

Faith in what you know: The sun will rise tomorrow

Faith in yourself: Your belief that you are able to do certain things and to learn to do others.

Faith in others: This comes from experience in their capabilities.

Faith in God: This comes from believing what He says about Himself and about you.