Question 1

What does the Bible say about faith?

Accepted Answer

The Bible defines faith as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). It teaches that faith is essential to pleasing God (Hebrews 11:6), that we are saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8), and that the just shall live by faith as a daily, ongoing posture (Romans 1:17).

Question 2

How does faith come according to the Bible?

Accepted Answer

Romans 10:17 states that "faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Faith is generated and strengthened by sustained exposure to Scripture. Prayer (Luke 17:5) and trials (1 Peter 1:7) also play a role in developing faith.

Question 3

What is the difference between faith and works?

Accepted Answer

Paul teaches that we are saved by grace through faith, not works (Ephesians 2:8-9). James teaches that genuine faith will naturally produce works (James 2:17). These are not contradictions, both agree that saving faith is real and living, not a mere intellectual belief, and that living faith expresses itself in action.

Question 4

What does it mean to have faith like a mustard seed?

Accepted Answer

In Matthew 17:20, Jesus uses a mustard seed, one of the smallest seeds, to show that the size of faith is less important than its authenticity and its object. Even a tiny amount of genuine faith in God is sufficient to accomplish what seems impossible to human thinking.

Question 5

Can faith be increased?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The apostles explicitly prayed "Lord, increase our faith" (Luke 17:5). Romans 10:17 indicates that hearing God's word builds faith. Trials, when responded to rightly, test and strengthen faith (1 Peter 1:7). Faith is a living thing that can grow.

Faith — Page 12