FAITH COMETH BY HEARING
Romans 10:17 NKJV: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
“Consequently, the word of God increases our hearing, and our hearing increases our faith. How are you hearing?”
This verse encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of faith and its origins within the Christian faith. The apostle Paul emphasizes that faith is not a mere internal sentiment or an isolated experience; rather, it depends on the word of God being read, received, and communicated through our actions.
1. The phrase “faith comes from hearing” underscores the necessity of active listening. Having a desire to read and receive the word of God. It requires exposure to the truth of the Gospel. The importance of preaching and teaching within the life of the church and individual believers. It is through the proclamation of God’s word that people are invited to respond with faith. Moreover, if you take the time to read the word of God, it will always inspire reflection on your current situation.
2. The message that is heard through the word about Christ,” points us to the center of Christian faith—the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is crucial to understand that faith is built on the message of Christ, encompassing His life, death, resurrection, and their implications for humanity and your life. When we engage with the Bible, the Gospel of truth, we encounter new revelation, which is the basis for our growth and the foundation of our hope.
3. As believers of the Gospel, we have a responsibility to share the Gospel. If faith comes from hearing the message, then we, as believers, are called to be conduits of that message. Whether through personal conversations, teaching, writing, or through our living, we can play a vital role in helping others hear about Christ and possibly come to believe.
4. Romans 10:17 encourages us not just to receive the word but also to be proactive in sharing it. This could involve inviting others to church, engaging in spiritual discussions, or simply sharing our personal testimonies of faith. (and Lord knows we have some testimonies) (smile). Each of these actions aligns with the belief that faith is nurtured by hearing the word and the truth of God.
In summary, Romans 10:17 beautifully illustrates the interconnectedness between faith and the proclamation of Christ’s message. It serves as a powerful reminder for believers to both nurture their own faith through hearing, studying, and to actively share that message with others, hoping that they, too, can come to faith.
Faith grows when we truly listen and study the word of God. If your faith is weakening, perhaps you are not reading, studying, or hearing the word of God enough. Like you, the word of God is an active, living being that must be fed, nourished, and tended to. Every living thing has basic needs: air, water, and nutrients. Jesus is the air we breathe, the living water we drink, and the food that nourishes our souls.
John 6:35 (NIV) says, “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.'”
Increase your faith by the hearing of God’s word. Let those who have ears hear.
Peace & love,
—Pastor Dwayne
