Bible Study Guide
What Does the Bible Say About Faith?
The Bible addresses faith in both the Old and New Testament. Here is what scripture teaches about faith and how these 8 passages apply to Christian life today.
Exploring 8 Key Passages
1. Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.KJV
This verse provides the classic biblical definition of faith, describing it as having confidence in what we hope for and being certain of what we cannot see. It establishes faith as both substantial and evidential in nature.
2. Romans 10:17
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.KJV
This verse explains how faith is developed and strengthened - through hearing and receiving God's word. It emphasizes the importance of Scripture and preaching in building faith.
3. Mark 11:22-23
And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.KJV
Jesus teaches about the power of faith and the importance of believing without doubt. This passage emphasizes that genuine faith can accomplish seemingly impossible things.
4. Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.KJV
This verse reveals that salvation comes through faith, not through human effort or good works. It establishes faith as the means by which we receive God's grace.
5. 2 Corinthians 5:7
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)KJV
Paul describes the Christian life as one guided by faith rather than by what we can physically see or understand. This verse emphasizes living according to spiritual truth rather than worldly appearances.
6. Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.KJV
This verse declares that faith is absolutely essential for a relationship with God. It explains that approaching God requires both belief in His existence and trust in His goodness toward those who seek Him.
7. Romans 1:17
For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.KJV
This foundational verse teaches that righteousness comes through faith and that believers are called to live their entire lives by faith. It was central to the Protestant Reformation's understanding of salvation.
8. James 2:17
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.KJV
James explains that genuine faith naturally produces good works as evidence of its reality. While works don't save us, they demonstrate that our faith is alive and authentic.
Summary
Key Takeaways About Faith
- This verse provides the classic biblical definition of faith, describing it as having confidence in what we hope for and being certain of what we cannot see.
- This verse explains how faith is developed and strengthened - through hearing and receiving God's word.
- Jesus teaches about the power of faith and the importance of believing without doubt.
- This verse reveals that salvation comes through faith, not through human effort or good works.
- Paul describes the Christian life as one guided by faith rather than by what we can physically see or understand.
- This verse declares that faith is absolutely essential for a relationship with God.
More Bible Study Guides
Explore what the Bible says about other topics