Theological concept · kjv
What Is Faith?
Faith in the Bible is not blind belief. It is trust built on the evidence of God's character — a confidence that bets everything on the promises of a faithful God.
Biblical Foundation
The Greek word pistis and the Hebrew emunah both carry the sense of trust, faithfulness, and reliability. Hebrews 11:1 gives the classic definition: "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." It then lists a long roll call of those who lived by faith — Abel, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Rahab, and many more. Their faith was not vague optimism but specific trust in specific promises of God, even when circumstances contradicted them. In the Reformation, sola fide — "by faith alone" — became the banner: we are justified not by works but by trust in Christ alone.
How Faith Works in Christian Life
Christian faith has three dimensions traditionally distinguished as notitia (knowing the content of the gospel), assensus (agreeing that it is true), and fiducia (personally trusting Christ). All three are needed. Faith grows through hearing Scripture (Romans 10:17), through trial that tests and proves it (James 1:3), through community that sustains it, and through the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Faith and works are not opposites — living faith produces works as naturally as a living tree produces fruit.
Scripture for Faith
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
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.”
Romans 10:17
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
Galatians 2:20
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God.”
James 2:17
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biblical definition of faith?
Hebrews 11:1 defines it as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." It is confident trust in what God has promised — not wishful thinking, but grounded assurance that the God who promised is faithful.
Is faith opposed to reason?
No. Biblical faith is a reasonable response to evidence — the evidence of God's character shown in creation, Scripture, the history of Israel, and supremely in Jesus Christ. It goes beyond what reason alone can prove, but it is not contrary to reason.
How do I grow in faith?
Scripture points to several means: hearing the Word (Romans 10:17), praying for more faith (Luke 17:5), walking through trials that prove and strengthen faith (1 Peter 1:7), and living in Christian community where faith is sustained and encouraged.
Can I be saved by faith alone?
Yes — and no alone faith saves. The Reformation's slogan sola fide means we are justified by faith alone, not by works. But living faith always produces works (James 2); a faith that produces no fruit is a dead faith, not saving faith.