Faith: What did Jesus say about Faith

Jesus spoke about faith on various occasions, emphasizing its importance in the life of a believer. Here are some relevant Bible verses along with three main takeaways:

1. Hebrews 12:1-2: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” .
2. Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” .
3. Galatians 2:16: “Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified” .

Three Main Takeaways:

1. Faith is Centered on Jesus: Faith is not an abstract concept but is centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the “founder and perfecter” of our faith, meaning our faith begins with Him and is completed by Him. Our faith grows as we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, learning from His example and drawing strength from His life, death, and resurrection.
2. Faith is a Gift, Not a Work: Our salvation is a result of faith, which is itself a gift from God. This emphasizes that we cannot earn our way to God through good works or personal merit. It’s by God’s grace that we’re saved, and He grants us the faith to believe in Him. This humbles us and directs all glory back to God for the work He has done.
3. Faith Justifies Us: The New Testament clearly teaches that we are justified by faith in Christ, not by adhering to the law or through our own efforts. This justification by faith assures us of our right standing before God, not because of what we have done, but because of what Christ has done for us. Our faith in Him reconciles us to God and brings us into a relationship with Him.