Bible Study on Faith: A Complete Guide to Understanding Biblical Faith
Faith stands as the cornerstone of Christian belief. It is mentioned throughout Scripture as essential for salvation, growth, and spiritual maturity. This comprehensive Bible study explores the depth and breadth of biblical faith through careful examination of key passages and theological concepts.
What Is Biblical Faith?
Faith is defined in Scripture with remarkable clarity. The writer of Hebrews provides the most cited definition: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1, NIV).
The Nature of Faith
Biblical faith is not mere intellectual agreement. It involves trust, commitment, and action. Faith is characterized by several key elements that are woven throughout Scripture.
Trust in God’s Character Faith begins with trust in who God is. The psalmist declares, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7). This trust is founded on God’s unchanging nature and faithful character.
Confidence in God’s Promises Abraham exemplifies this aspect of faith. Romans 4:20-21 states, “Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.”
Active Obedience James emphasizes that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). True faith is demonstrated through obedience to God’s commands. Noah’s faith was shown by building the ark (Hebrews 11:7). Abraham’s faith was revealed when he offered Isaac (James 2:21-22).
Faith Distinguished from Other Concepts
Faith differs from hope, though they are closely related. Hope looks forward to future fulfillment, while faith trusts in present realities that are not yet seen. Faith also differs from knowledge. Knowledge deals with facts that can be verified, while faith deals with truths that must be trusted.
The Origin and Source of Faith
Scripture teaches that faith comes from God, not from human effort or wisdom.
Faith as God’s Gift
Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Faith itself is granted by God’s grace.
Faith Through God’s Word
Romans 10:17 reveals how faith typically comes: “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” The Word of God is the primary means through which faith is generated and strengthened.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in faith. He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). He also helps believers understand spiritual truths (1 Corinthians 2:14). Without the Spirit’s work, faith would be impossible.
Old Testament Foundations of Faith
The Old Testament provides rich examples and teachings about faith that form the foundation for New Testament understanding.
Abraham: The Father of Faith
Abraham is called the father of all who believe (Romans 4:16). His faith journey began with God’s call to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4). Abraham obeyed without knowing his destination, demonstrating faith’s willingness to trust God’s leading.
The Promise of Offspring God promised Abraham descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). Despite his advanced age and Sarah’s barrenness, Abraham believed God’s promise. Romans 4:18 says he “believed and hoped when hope seemed hopeless.”
The Test of Isaac The ultimate test of Abraham’s faith came when God commanded him to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:1-19). Abraham’s willingness to obey revealed complete trust in God’s character and promises. Hebrews 11:19 suggests Abraham believed God could raise Isaac from the dead.
Moses: Faith in God’s Deliverance
Moses demonstrated faith by choosing to identify with God’s people rather than enjoy the privileges of Pharaoh’s house (Hebrews 11:24-26). His faith was tested repeatedly during the wilderness journey, yet he persevered by fixing his eyes on “him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27).
David: Faith in Times of Trial
David’s psalms reveal a heart of faith amid various trials. Psalm 23 expresses complete trust in God’s care. Psalm 27:1 declares, “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” David’s faith was not untested; it was forged through difficulties.
New Testament Revelation of Faith
The New Testament builds upon Old Testament foundations while revealing new dimensions of faith through Christ.
Jesus as the Object of Faith
Faith in the New Testament is specifically faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16 presents the gospel’s essence: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Faith in Christ’s Person Believers must have faith in who Jesus is—fully God and fully man. Thomas’s declaration, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28) represents faith in Christ’s deity. This faith is essential for salvation.
Faith in Christ’s Work Faith also centers on what Jesus accomplished through his death and resurrection. Romans 10:9 states, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Faith and Salvation
The relationship between faith and salvation is central to New Testament teaching.
Justification by Faith Romans 3:28 declares, “For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.” Justification—being declared righteous before God—comes through faith alone, not through human works or merit.
Salvation Through Faith Alone Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is entirely by grace through faith. Human works cannot contribute to salvation; they are the result of salvation. Good works are prepared by God for believers to walk in (Ephesians 2:10).
Types of Faith in Scripture
Scripture reveals different types or levels of faith that serve various purposes in God’s plan.
Saving Faith
Saving faith is the faith that brings eternal life. This faith involves:
- Knowledge: Understanding the gospel message
- Assent: Agreeing that the gospel is true
- Trust: Personal reliance on Christ for salvation
Romans 1:16 describes the gospel as “the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” This saving faith is a one-time act with eternal consequences.
Living Faith
Living faith describes the ongoing trust believers exercise throughout their Christian lives. This faith:
- Seeks God’s guidance daily (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- Trusts God’s provision (Matthew 6:26)
- Relies on God’s strength (Philippians 4:13)
- Submits to God’s will (Luke 22:42)
Growing Faith
Scripture speaks of faith that increases and matures. The disciples asked Jesus to “increase our faith” (Luke 17:5). Paul commended the Thessalonians because their “faith is growing more and more” (2 Thessalonians 1:3).
Factors That Promote Growth
- Regular study of God’s Word (Romans 10:17)
- Prayer and communion with God (Jude 20)
- Fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:24-25)
- Trials and testing (James 1:2-4)
Great Faith
Jesus occasionally commended individuals for their “great faith.” The centurion who believed Jesus could heal his servant with just a word was praised for his faith (Matthew 8:10). The Canaanite woman who persisted in seeking healing for her daughter also received this commendation (Matthew 15:28).
The Heroes of Faith
Hebrews 11 presents a catalog of Old Testament believers who exemplified faith in various circumstances.
Abel: Faith in Worship
Abel offered a better sacrifice than Cain “by faith” (Hebrews 11:4). His sacrifice was accepted because it was offered in faith, demonstrating that worship must be approached with genuine faith in God.
Enoch: Faith in Walk
Enoch “walked faithfully with God” and was taken up without experiencing death (Genesis 5:24). Hebrews 11:5 attributes this to his faith, noting that “without faith it is impossible to please God.”
Noah: Faith in Warning
Noah’s faith was demonstrated by his obedience to God’s warning about the flood. He built an ark “in holy fear” and became “heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith” (Hebrews 11:7).
The Patriarchs: Faith in Promises
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob lived as strangers and exiles, looking forward to “the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10). Their faith looked beyond present circumstances to God’s eternal promises.
Moses: Faith in Calling
Moses chose to suffer with God’s people rather than enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin (Hebrews 11:25). His faith enabled him to see beyond immediate circumstances to eternal rewards.
Joshua and the Israelites: Faith in Conquest
The walls of Jericho fell “by faith” after the people marched around them for seven days (Hebrews 11:30). This demonstrates faith’s role in spiritual warfare and victory over seemingly impossible obstacles.
Faith and Prayer
Prayer and faith are intimately connected throughout Scripture. Jesus repeatedly emphasized the importance of faith in prayer.
The Power of Believing Prayer
Mark 11:24 records Jesus’ promise: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Faith transforms prayer from mere petition to confident expectation.
Faith-Sized Miracles
Jesus spoke of faith that could move mountains (Matthew 17:20). While this may sometimes be literal, it often represents overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles through faith-filled prayer.
Persistent Faith in Prayer
The parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) teaches believers to “always pray and not give up.” Faith maintains hope even when answers are delayed.
Faith and God’s Will
First John 5:14-15 provides guidance for faith-filled prayer: “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked from him.”
Challenges to Faith
Scripture honestly acknowledges that faith faces various challenges and obstacles.
Doubt and Faith
Doubt is not the opposite of faith; unbelief is. Even strong believers sometimes struggle with doubt. John the Baptist, despite his previous certainty about Jesus, sent messengers to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” (Matthew 11:3).
Jesus’ Response to Doubt Jesus responded to John’s doubt with evidence of his messianic works (Matthew 11:4-6). He provides similar evidence for modern believers through Scripture, the Spirit’s witness, and answered prayer.
Overcoming Doubt
- Study Scripture to build knowledge of God’s character
- Remember past experiences of God’s faithfulness
- Fellowship with mature believers
- Pray for increased faith
Fear and Faith
Fear often challenges faith. When Peter walked on water, his faith faltered when he “saw the wind” and became afraid (Matthew 14:30). Fear focuses on circumstances rather than God’s power and promises.
Trials and Faith
First Peter 1:6-7 explains that trials test and refine faith like fire refines gold. These trials are “for a little while” but produce faith that is “of greater worth than gold.”
Faith’s Response to Trials
- Trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness
- Remember that trials are temporary
- Focus on eternal perspectives
- Rely on God’s grace and strength
Faith and Works
The relationship between faith and works has been debated throughout church history, yet Scripture provides clear guidance.
Faith Produces Works
Ephesians 2:10 states that believers are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Works are the natural result of genuine faith, not the cause of salvation.
Faith Demonstrated by Works
James 2:18 presents the challenge: “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” Faith is made visible through actions that reflect trust in God.
Works as Evidence of Faith
Matthew 7:16 teaches that trees are known by their fruit. Similarly, genuine faith is evidenced by the spiritual fruit it produces in a believer’s life.
Faith and the Christian Life
Faith is not limited to salvation; it governs every aspect of Christian living.
Walking by Faith
Second Corinthians 5:7 instructs believers to “live by faith, not by sight.” This means making decisions based on God’s Word and promises rather than circumstances or human wisdom.
Faith in Daily Decisions
Faith influences choices about:
- Career and calling
- Relationships and marriage
- Financial decisions and stewardship
- Time management and priorities
- Ministry involvement
Faith and Spiritual Growth
Faith is essential for spiritual maturity. Believers grow in grace by continuing to trust God’s Word, rely on his strength, and obey his commands.
The Unity of Faith
Ephesians 4:13 speaks of believers reaching “unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God.” This unity is both present reality and future goal.
One Faith
Ephesians 4:5 identifies “one faith” as part of the church’s unity. Despite denominational differences, all true believers share the same basic faith in Christ.
Common Faith
Titus 1:4 refers to “our common faith,” emphasizing what believers share rather than their differences. This common faith centers on Jesus Christ and the gospel.
Faith Once Delivered
Jude 3 urges believers to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.” This refers to the complete body of Christian doctrine that has been revealed in Scripture.
Faith and Hope
Faith and hope are closely related but distinct concepts in Scripture.
Faith as Foundation for Hope
Faith provides the foundation for hope. Hope looks forward to what faith already possesses. Romans 8:24-25 explains that “hope that is seen is no hope at all” but faith sustains hope in what is not yet visible.
Hope Anchored by Faith
Hebrews 6:19 describes hope as “an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” This hope is anchored in God’s unchanging promises, accessed by faith.
The Blessed Hope
Titus 2:13 refers to the “blessed hope” of Christ’s return. Faith enables believers to wait expectantly for this hope’s fulfillment.
Faith and Love
Faith is closely connected to love in Christian experience.
Faith Working Through Love
Galatians 5:6 states that “the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” Faith is not merely intellectual; it motivates loving action.
Love as Faith’s Expression
First John 4:16 declares that “God is love” and those who know him express this love through faith. Love provides evidence of genuine faith.
Faith, Hope, and Love
First Corinthians 13:13 presents the famous triad: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” These three virtues work together in Christian experience.
The Rewards of Faith
Scripture promises various rewards for those who exercise genuine faith.
Eternal Rewards
Faith brings eternal life (John 3:16), eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:4), and eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). These rewards far exceed temporary sufferings.
Present Blessings
Faith also brings present blessings:
- Peace with God (Romans 5:1)
- Access to grace (Romans 5:2)
- Victory over the world (1 John 5:4)
- Answered prayer (Mark 11:24)
- God’s presence and guidance (Hebrews 11:6)
The Hall of Fame of Faith
Hebrews 11 presents believers who received God’s commendation through faith. Their examples inspire modern believers to similar faithfulness.
Conclusion
Faith stands as the essential element in Christian life and experience. From salvation to sanctification, from prayer to service, faith provides the foundation for relationship with God. Scripture calls believers to examine their faith, exercise their faith, and grow in faith.
The heroes of faith in Scripture demonstrate that faith is not passive but active. It trusts God’s promises, obeys his commands, and perseveres through trials. Faith looks beyond present circumstances to eternal realities.
As believers study God’s Word, they discover that faith is both gift and responsibility. God provides faith, but believers must exercise it. Faith comes through hearing God’s Word, but it grows through practice and testing.
The call of Scripture is clear: “Have faith in God” (Mark 11:22). This faith transforms lives, moves mountains, and pleases God. It is “more precious than gold” (1 Peter 1:7) and worth whatever it costs to obtain and maintain.
May this study of faith encourage believers to trust God more fully, obey him more completely, and live by faith rather than sight. In a world that demands proof before belief, Christians are called to believe and then see God’s faithfulness demonstrated.
Faith is not blind trust but informed confidence in God’s character and promises revealed in Scripture. As believers grow in knowledge of God’s Word and experience his faithfulness, their faith becomes stronger and more stable.
The greatest example of faith is found in Jesus Christ himself, who is called “the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2). He trusted the Father completely, even unto death on the cross. His perfect faith opens the way for imperfect believers to approach God with confidence.
Through Christ, faith becomes not just human trust in God, but participation in the very faithfulness of God himself. This is the ultimate goal of biblical faith—union with God through Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.