Overview:
Many times we need to look to the past to help us understand
things that affect our lives today.
It may have been easier for people to understand
the word "faith" in the times when
the Bible was written because, at that time 1) many people understood the Hebrew and Greek languages
in which the scriptures were originally written, and 2) the definitions and
ideas surrounding the word "faith" had not changed significantly from the date
of the writings.
Today, however, the word "faith" has
definitions and meanings that extend beyond the original meaning of the word. As with many English
words, the meanings seem to change from decade to decade, taking on new
ideas and concepts. As a result, there are some who misunderstand what the
scriptures originally meant by the word "faith."
The following
scripture underscores the importance of us
understanding the true meaning of faith:
"...without
faith it is impossible to please Him for he who
comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is
a rewarder of those who seek Him." Hebrews 11:6(New
American Standard Version - NAS)
Goals:
After completing this lesson, you
will be better prepared to answer the following
questions:
-
What is meant in scripture when
it talks of a person having faith?
-
What is the difference between
belief, hope and true faith?
-
What is "obedience of faith?"
-
What is the relationship of
grace and faith in the salvation process?
-
What does it mean to "break
faith" with God?
About This Lesson:
In the first five questions in this
lesson, we will look quickly at the meanings of
the Greek and Hebrew words that are translated into English as "faith."
For the balance of the lesson, we will look at examples of the word "faith"
being used in scripture. The lesson is divided
into the following areas:
Questions |
Topic |
1-3 |
Old Testament - Hebrew Words for
"Faith." |
4-5 |
New Testament - Greek Words for
"Faith." |
6-9 |
Faith Defined. |
10-30 |
Examples of Faith in Scripture. |
31-36 |
Faith Vs. Grace, The Law of Moses, Works
& Love |
37-38 |
Breaking Faith |
This lesson will be a brief introduction to "faith," so it
does not fully cover the entire subject of faith. In order to better
understand faith, read the scriptures daily to learn more about the men and
women of faith...and to strengthen your own faith in God and Jesus...and their
promises to us.
If at any time you would like to save your place in the lesson,
click on the
icon at
the top of the page for instructions on how to bookmark the page.
Prerequisites:
We suggest that you fully complete
Lesson 1 before you
begin this lesson.
Click on Question 1 below to
continue...
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