“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17) We’ve been looking at this verse this week, seeing how it has been pulled out of context and made to say things that it was never meant to say. We’ve seen that the verse originally was written to discuss how people come to have saving faith. We also saw that, in context, “hearing” can refer to hearing the testimony of God’s creation.
If that’s how faith begins, how does it grow and develop? Undoubtedly, one of the ways is through hearing the Word of God, be it through Bible reading or through the exposition of God’s Word. But must we limit faith development to that? Not according to the Bible. Here are some other ways in which faith grows:
- Through seeing God’s wonders. That’s a key theme in John’s gospel. (John 2:11, 23; 4:48; 7:31; 10:25, 38; 12:11, 37; 20:8, 27, 29)
- Through asking God for more faith. (Mark 9:24 Luke 17:5) The Bible teaches that faith is a gift of God. (Romans 12:3; 1 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Timothy 1:14)
- Through interaction with other Christians (Romans 1:12; 1 Thessalonians 3:10)
- Through acting on our faith (James 2:22)
Those are just a few ideas of how to develop faith, based on what the Bible says. Can you think of others?
Hi Tim,
I have two sons, one 15 and the other 5; they are my precious sons. Let me repeat that again, they are my precious sons!! With that said, one of my favorite faith context stories is that of Abraham. When I look at Heb 11:17 & 18 and referencing an Old Testament hero of faith, Abraham, was about to sacrifice his son. Because of his faith he had already recieved the promise and now God was testing him.
I think we can develop our faith by simply trusting God and our part is to follow though. I look at my sons Joey and Timmy and I see handsome and cute and there is admiration and love in my heart. I look at myself and imagine being Abraham; I want to be like him and yet….well, it takes commitment to be like Abraham. It takes determination and conviction to develop and increase our faith. I wish I knew some verses off the top of my head regarding this kind of faith development but this kind doesn’t come by just hearing.
Bob
Tim, I agree with increased faith through reading the bible, about actions taken by Jesus through the power given him by his father.
But seeing the way God works through sincere prayer, or talks, with God is totally convincing. I don’t mean only those recorded in the bible.
I know for a fact that I have had at least two prayers answered, “miracles” , and have convincing evidence of it. I was not a (Baptized Christian) either time, but my talk with God evidently proved my belief that he was God and could do as I ask if he wished, and he did, no doubt in my mind. (If you want to hear about it, I am always willing to testify) Tim, I believe faith is gained not just by asking for it, but by being convinced. Two vs. you mentioned, Mark 9:24 and Lk 17:5 . one was convinced by a miracle, and I’m not sure the other was not a scolding.
I won’t comment on associating with “other Christians” broadly speaking. I will say it can be disheartening at times.