Introduction: This study is meant to instruct and encourage

Transcription

1 1 What Is Faith?

2 2 Introduction: This study is meant to instruct and encourage us about the very foundation of our spiritual and physical existence...faith. The possession and nurture of faith in a person's life has daily and eternal significance. We intend to use the same format, as did the writer of Hebrews in gaining answers to the following questions: 1) What is faith/belief? 2) Is all faith the same? 3) Why is faith important to my life? 4) How can I obtain faith? 5) How can I know if I have God-approved faith? 6) How can I strengthen my faith? 7) What can weaken my faith? 8) What is the quality of my faith in service to God and man? In order to accomplish our goal we will investigate God's word in its instruction concerning faith in a person's life from its inception to its perfection. This is a maturation process in which it is absolutely necessary for us to be active participants. Please take the lessons personally. Faith is personal, as is our relationship with God. It is our sincere desire that each of us put our individual faith to the test of its authenticity as determined by the Holy Scriptures. - 2 Cor. 13:5

3 26 3 Where do I stand? Where do you stand? Is my faith maturing or eroding? This is an evaluation that can only be made for sure by God or myself 10) What can we examine about ourselves to determine accurately the authenticity of our faith? James 2:18 Conclusion: Let us honestly examine and evaluate our own faith in each of these areas of our personal lives. 2 Cor. 13:5 Lesson 1 - Introduction to Faith Since faith/belief is so important it is interesting that the word "faith" in the Old Testament (KJV) occurs only twice (Deut. 32:20; Habakkuk 2:4). The verb form "to believe" appears less than 30 times. In contrast these terms occur much more in the New Testament, almost 300 times; however, the truth is that the Old Testament does not so much speak of doctrine by faith, but sets forth the characteristics of God, the life of servants of God, and their interaction to exemplify what faith really is. In doing so, it emphasizes the importance, even the necessity, of this faith to establish and maintain fellowship with God. Faith is the very foundation of man's hope to be a child of God irrelevant of the time period and/or law under which he lived. (Heb. 11:1) It is the basis upon which all actions and experiences of a person who is acceptable to God is founded. The writer of Hebrews speaks to Hebrew Christians about faith/or belief and uses many examples of Old Testament

4 4 25 characters to illustrate our introductory lessons. Our primary text will be Hebrews 10:32-12:2; however Romans 4, Galatians 3, and James 2:14-26 are musts in order to fully understand what real faith entails. There will be other supplemental verses. Please read all of these and meditate on them. 2) Did Peter's faith fail him or save him during the ordeal of Christ's trial? Lk. 22 Explain. 3) Show from scripture that one can fall into unbelief after becoming a believer? Throughout our first six lessons, please write down all of the words that describe real faith and the characteristics of it. In the 7th lesson we want to put all these thoughts together to define faith/belief as it is taught in God's word. 4) What is the proper reaction to trials that test our faith and what is the desired result? Jam. 1 & I Pet. 1 5) Can our faith become "perfect" without trials? Hebrews 10: ) Can one have saving faith without it being mature? The Hebrew Christians were being persecuted by other Jews who rejected Christ. They were being tempted to turn back to the old law as the prediction of worse persecution was coming upon them. Thus the writer determines by the Holy Spirit to remind them and teach them the importance of faith and what saving faith is. 1) What had the Hebrew Christians experienced? 7) What are some ways that the Hebrew brethren were told to help them remain strong and hold fast? Heb. 10: ) What did Christ tell his listeners to do so that daily anxieties could not weaken their faith? Mt. 6: ) On the negative side of questions 7 & 8, what are some attitudes and actions one can exhibit to allow their faith to erode?

5 24 5 Does it matter to such a person if he understands the command or if the command places difficulties in its fulfillment? How much of the scripture does one need to know to establish saving faith to become a child of God? Maturation of Faith: The reality of our spiritual lives is that at different times and in certain situations the strength of our faith will fluctuate. There are times of trials in everyone's life to test our faith. One may at times exhibit great faith, or little faith, or may even fall into disbelief. There are some who will not endure and will give up the good fight; however, the proper and intended reaction to those is to provide growth in the maturation process of individual faith. To maintain consistency is a great sign of progress in this area. Mt. 6:20; Mt. 15:28; Lk. 8:22-25; Lk. 8:48; Lk. 17:1-5; Lk. 22:31-34; Js. 1:2-4; Heb. 3:12; 1 Pet. 1:3-7; 1 Thess. 3:9-10 1) How do we know that faith by Jesus' own apostles had "ups & downs"? 2) What reason is given that they had endured sufferings and accepted joyfully property loss? (vs. 31) 3) What steps were they to take in order to remain in fellowship with God? (vs. 32,35,36) 4) What was the incentive for them not to throw away confidence and to endure? 5) What quotation from Habakkuk 2:4 is quoted in vs. 38? a. How is the situation in the nation of Judah similar to that of the Hebrew Christians? Habakkuk 2:4 b. How does the quotation "The just (righteous) shall live by faith" apply in both cases? 6) What inner quality allowed these people assurance that they had a better and eternal possession? 7) The "Hebrews" writer concludes that these people had choices in this reaction to trials. What were the choices and what were the final results of these choices?

6 6 23 8) Consider any similarities and/or differences in the problems of those in Habakkuk and Hebrews and the options presented to them with our lives today. Is the solution to their dilemma the same as to ours? Although belief in its pure form is necessary to develop a faith that saves, it is only a part of it. Use our previous studies along with the teaching of the scriptures and write out a definition of faith that saves the soul. Please do not use the dictionary definition. I want us to develop a practical definition from our study of God's word. Lesson 2 - Saving Faith The author has concluded in his original thought to the Hebrew Christians that the answer to their dilemma was that "the just would live by faith." I believe he then begins an explanation of what Godapproved faith involves. Not only does he give some descriptive sentences about it; but throughout most of the chapter illustrates its characteristics through examples. He wants them to know exactly what "type" of faith to which he refers that will lead to the saving of one's soul. Faith: Since this faith is absolutely necessary to please God, what about my faith? Is it "real" faith? How does my faith "stand" in relation to our definition from the inspired scriptures? Beginnings of Faith's Journey Gen. 1:1; John 1:1-5; John 14:1,6-7 If one truly believes the aforementioned verses concerning God the Father and the Son and places his fidelity and loyalty toward God/Christ, what will he question about anything the Lord commands?

7 22 7 What did they not receive? vs. 39 Name some of the people in the Old Testament to whom these descriptions apply. 2) What is the conclusion of the writer in giving the solution to the temptation of "shrinking back" from service to God? Heb. 11:40-12:3 Lesson 7 - What About My Faith? In our first six lessons we have briefly examined some basic tenets of faith as revealed in the scriptures; and we have studied the lives of several men and women who by their attitudes and actions exemplify true faith. This is the type of faith that saves us. "The just shall live by faith." Habakkuk 2:3-4; Hebrews 10:38 "And Abraham believed God and it was accounted to him for righteousness." Gen. 15:6; James 2:23 Whenever one reads about faith in God's word, just as with any subject, there must be an understanding of context to fully understand what is an accurate meaning. Belief, in particular, can mean simply an opinion or intellectual assent held in high standing; or it can be a comprehensive term including an intense inner quality of assurance producing a loyalty, trust, and fidelity toward the object of that passion. Read the following passage and determine if the belief or faith mentioned is that by which God counts a person to be righteous. James 2:19; Matt. 6:30; 8:26; James 2:17,23,26; Rom. 4:3; John 12:42-43; Matt. 8:10; 1 Cor. 2:4-5; John 20:31; John 3:16; Heb. 11:6 These few scriptures clearly indicate that faith references can vary greatly in their meaning. Only the type belief toward saving of the soul is under consideration by the write in his definition of saving faith in Hebrews 11. Although pure belief is a necessary part of faith, saving faith involves

8 8 21 much more substance and is based on strong conviction with reference to sound evidence. b) Why did Moses "stand still" when those around him began to doubt? Ex. 14:13-14 It demands "knowing" in whom or what one's faith is placed. The only "Being" qualified to be the object of such faith is God, the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit. He is above all (in control), through all (by providence) and in all (omnipresent). We live in a God-created, God-controlled, God-sustained, and God-filled world. There is nothing in life so terrible and/or powerful that surpasses the Lord's ability to help His people. A necessary result is the personal submission to the object God; and thus it will alter in a definitive way how a person views and lives life on this earth. All of our aforementioned thoughts are expressed by the Hebrew writer by statements and/or through God-approved examples. David Heb. 11:32; 1 Sam. 17 1) What seemed to be David's greatest concern about his confrontation with Goliath? I Sam. 17:26 2) Name at least 3 events/situations that David could have allowed to discourage him? 3) What had David experienced in his life that gave him complete confidence in God? 4) In face to face confrontation with Goliath relate David's words and actions that indicate his confidence in the outcome of the fight. Heb. 11:32-12:3 Read Hebrews 11:1-3,6,13 1) What did the people mentioned in verses and those previously mentioned obtain through their faith?

9 20 9 3) When did his bones leave Egypt and how long was it from his statement in Gen. 50; Ex. 13:19; Josh. 24:32? 1) What is the relationship between faith and hope (know what hope involves in this context)? 4) What conclusion can one draw from these men's faith in relationship to time of fulfillment of God's promises? Moses Heb. 11: ) a) On what type of evidence is faith based? b) Do we use this same type evidence in other aspects of our lives? 1) What type of immediate future was Moses choosing when he refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter? What was he giving up? 2) What prompted Moses to make the aforementioned decision? Heb. 11: ) Do we have similar decisions to make in our own lives? How can we make proper decisions? Give examples to illustrate your answer. c) What is the most important factor in determining truth from such evidence? 3) How can one "understand" how the worlds were framed? Discuss how this relates to the world view of creation today. See Gen. 1:1; Jn. 1: 1-3 4) What are the three characteristics of one who has faith that is pleasing to God? Heb. 11:6 4) Read Exodus 14 in relation to Hebrews 11:29. 5) What are the attitudes exhibited by one coming to God? a) Who was in control of the situation? Ex. 14:1-4 6) Who does God claim to be? Name at least 6 attributes of God. Ps. 66:3-7; Is. 40:9-31; Ps. 139; Job 12:4-25

10 10 19 can this take place? Gal. 3:7, 26 What does this make us? 7) What is involved in believing God is, and why is only He worthy of such faith? 8) Why can one be assured that God alone is qualified to be a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him? 9) In what or whom do men place their confidence many times? Be prepared to discuss the folly in such action. Gal. 3:29-4:7 What is a common factor in God's attitude toward Abel, Enoch, Noah, and Abraham because of their faith? Heb. 11:4,5,7; Gal. 3:6; James 2:23. Is it accurate to say they are saved by faith? 10) What is the difference in belief in its "pure" state and faith that saves? Lesson 6 - Examples of Faith (continued) Jacob and Joseph Heb. 11:21,22; Gen. 48:3-4, 21; Gen. Lesson 3 - The Role of Faith 50:24-26 What role does saving faith play in one's life? Some of these have been mentioned; however, in this lesson we will explore the subject in more detail. 1) What was the basis upon which Jacob assured Joseph that the people would return to the land of Canaan? 2) How is Joseph's faith shown by his statements in Gen. 50:24-26?

11 18 11 Abraham Gen.12:1-3; 15:6; Rom. 4:3,9-25; Gal. 3:5-9, 26-29; James 2:19-26; Heb. 11:8-17 1) Consider the scriptures above and list at least 3 obstacles to Abraham's having faith in God's promises if he used human wisdom. How truly important is faith to you and me, not just in theory, but also in practice during our daily lives? What can application of faith and its development do for me? Please read the following scriptures and answer the appropriate questions. 2) Is there ever any indication of Abraham asking God why he was asked to do anything that God commanded? What about us today? 3) Sarah's faith wavered at one time concerning the promise of a child. What did she do to try to help God's plan? Gen. 16:12 Make application of this action to people's lives today. 1) What can make it impossible for you to be pleasing to God? Heb. 11:6 2) Why do you think this one quality is so important to God and that without it prevents one's being approved by God according to revelation through the Holy Spirit? 3) How can faith overcome the world in our own lives? I Jn. 5:4 4) Why was Abraham's faith/belief accounted to him by God for righteousness? Rom.4:19-22; Heb. 11:17-19; James 2: ) Do we have opportunity to be children of Abraham and partakers of blessings promised to his seed? Gal. 3: How 4) Name 3 spiritual blessings to which we gain access through faith in Jesus Christ? Rom. 5:1-2 5) What role does faith have in obtaining everlasting life? Jn. 3:16,36

12 ) a) How did the men of old gain approval by God in becoming His people? Heb. 11:2,39; Gal. 3:6-7; Rom. 4:3; James 2:22-24 b) How do we gain approval by God in becoming His children today? Gal. 3:26 ize the next two lessons to better understand faith through God approved examples. Cain and Abel Heb. 11:4, Gen. 4:1-16 1) Give similarities of Cain and Abel's worship. 7) What is the significance in your life to be counted a "child of God"? Gal. 3:26-4:6 8) What role is played by faith in the armor of a child of God? Eph. 6:10-20; 1 Thess. 5:8 9) Name some ways faith allows us to live and view life differently than those without it. 2) Give differences of Cain and Abel's worship. 3) Give 3 conclusions about faith you can gain from this account. Enoch Heb. 11:5 1) What was the testimony about Enoch and why? a. 2 Cor. 4:13-5:8; 2 Kings 6:8-16 Noah Heb. 11:7; Matt. 24:38-39; 2 Pet. 2:5 b. Heb. 11:3; Jn. 6:60-69 c. Heb. 10:35-36; James 1:57 1) What motivated Noah to "understand" a flood was coming while others to whom he preached did not? 2) What did he become? Heb. 11:7 Why?

13 ) a) If one picked up a Bible and began to read, what is the first verse in the Bible that he would read to challenge his thinking about God? Gen. 1:1 If one truly believes this verse where does he place his faith? 10) Why is it to be expected that those in the world think differently and have a different view of life than those who are Christians? b) This is the beginning information from the Holy Spirit to introduce faith to the reader. What other options concerning the creation are available to us? If one doubts this verse and accepts other options where does he place his faith? 10) If one is surely convicted by faith that Gen. 1:1 is true, is there any other event in God's word that he should doubt if he is consistent? Why? Lesson 4 - The Attaining of Faith Since faith is absolutely necessary for our proper relationship with God, it is important that one investigates how we may obtain that saving faith initially and then enable it to mature into perfection. The only way anyone will place complete faith, assurance and fidelity to any other person or thing is to know enough Lesson 5 - Examples to Illustrate Saving Faith Over the first four lessons there have been statements and declarations to try to help define God approved faith and its ramifications. As does the writer of Hebrews, we will util- to feel confident in the abilities, capabilities, consistency, and willingness of the object in which the trust is placed. In obtaining such information the person also must exhibit attitudes, which contribute to his receiving it so that the proper seed of faith is planted and begins its growth.

14 14 15 This beginning and maturation process can have successes and failures over a period of time. It can at times be hindered and on other occasions be enhanced. It is up to us to enable it to grow even through some deterrents to reach its God-desired results. 1) Why does a young child jump to their parent from a high position without hesitation? 5) Gaining knowledge by hearing can produce faith. What must one hear? Rom. 10:17 6) What are some prerequisites for a person to possess in his heart to hear in such a way as to produce faith? a. Lk. 8:15 b. Mt. 18:14; James 1:21 2) Why can a person perform a work God asks him to do without hesitation? 3) a) How does Romans 1:18-21 show that God expects mankind to acknowledge Him as God and produce initial belief? c. Acts 17:11 d. Jer. 5:1; 2 Thess. 2:9-10 7) How does humility help one develop faith in God? a. I Cor. 1:20-21; 2:4-5 b) Does mankind have excuse to not acknowledge God from aforementioned source? 4) What declares the glory of God? Ps. 19:1-6 Ps. 8:1-3 Job 12:7-9 b. Jer. 10:23 c. Is. 55:8-9 8) What are some origins of faith as espoused by the wisdom of men?