Articles
What does the bible say about faith only?
Faith is the “substance of things hoped for and the evidence of unseen things” (Heb. 11:1) and
“without faith it is impossible to please God” (Heb. 11:6).
Gal. 3:26 says that “we are children of God through faith in Christ Jesus.” So, we can clearly see that
God considers faith in Him, His plan and His Word to be vitally important. Romans 10:17 says that
“faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” So, as we read, study, listen and apply God’s word it will
produce faith for those who honestly consider what He has revealed to us.
The Bible definitely teaches the essentiality of faith in order for us to be saved. That is a fact. However,
the Bible is also very clear that “faith alone” is never taught nor sanctioned by God as the “only thing”
essential to be saved. James 2:24 teaches us that a man is not saved by “faith only.” James goes on to
tell us that true bible faith is only demonstrated by the works man does (James 2:18). James tells us that
the demons “believe and tremble” (James 2:19). Anyone, even a demon can confess Christ as the Son
of God. But it takes a person who is willing to apply what God says and obey His commandments, that is
truly in a saved relationship with God.
Galatians 3:26, 27 teaches the following- “we are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for as
many of you as are baptized into Christ, have put on Christ.” Christ is not put on by simply believing in
Him and what He did. One must be baptized in obedience to His commands in Mark 16:16 in order to
reach the blood of Christ, that washes away our sins.
Everyone, even the unbeliever utilizes faith in some area of life. When you drive in traffic you are having
faith in the others on the road that they will abide by the laws as you try to do. We have faith that our
parents will do what is best for us. We have faith that our spouses will not cheat on us. The atheist has
faith that the sun will rise and set as it always has (whether or not He admits to God’s existence- He has
faith in his order). Bible faith is best demonstrated in Hebrews 11 as the Hebrew writer lists many
heroes of the Old Testament and how they acted in faith. They lived by faith, but that faith always was
accompanied and shown by works they did. Works alone did not justify them, nor did faith alone. God
requires both to be pleasing to Him. ---Stan Adams--- Please address all comments and questions to
What does the Bible Say c/o Maple St. Church of Christ PO Box 3086 Liberty, TX 77575
