Faith is...

Today I am writing out the notes I took as listened to a message from New Reformation, Steve Lawson's website (in my favorite ministries list). This may continue for several days because what he says is impactful and thought provoking. It also includes details and facts that I would never know if someone else hadn't done the observation so I am thankful for the legwork, prayerful research that others do that so benefits the rest of us. Everything in the brackets is from Dr. Lawson. I tried to be accurate in my notetaking- sometimes pausing to make sure I got it right. Hopefully I did a good job.

[Scripture: Hebrews 11: 1
Point 1- Faith is primary- the number of times faith is used is amazing. In Hebrews it is used 32 times and in Chapter 11 it is used 24 times.

Point 2- The properties of faith- components, what is it. Verse one is a description of faith not a definition of it. The Greek word pistis has mutliple uses. Here were some of the usages of the word.

• completely trustworthy
• pledge
• promise
• oath
• inner attitude of complete trust, reliance
• firm persuasion of truthfulness of God's Word
• deep conviction based upon confidence of person (God) and His testimony
• personal surrender to the living God and a conduct inspired by that belief
• trusting acceptance of the Word and Will of God
• an allegiance to God
• a loyalty to God marked by firm belief and strong conviction- not wavering.

Synonyms of faith: commitment, trust, reliance, persuasion, surrender, submission, obedience, allegiance, loyalty, confidence, conviction, assurance.

 True faith in God has all these components. Faith is a gift from God to us. It is dynamic, supernatural, active- not passive, it is aggressive- it moves out.]

This gives us alot to think about for now. Does this describe my faith? Does this describe your faith? If not we need to examine ourselves to be sure we are 'in the faith'. Ask God to make your faith evident, strong, and deep. He will do it.

Next, tomorrow, I will pick up this message with the Three Nonnegotiable parts of faith.

to the praise of the glory of His grace which He freely lavished on us in the Beloved,
Norma