The Gospel: The Essentials of Faith--Part 1. (Part 3)

The Essentials of Faith

Appropriation of salvation

• Man has a standing with God by means of faith, Romans 3:28

• In contrast to works [it is not by keeping rules)

• “Believed God”—Romans 4:3—(nothing additional)

The perversion of faith alone teaching

• Faith plus method: Faith plus—ritual, an act, an experience, etc.

• Defining faith in terms of works (this is more subtle)—faith does NOT mean: 1) Submission; 2) Commitment; 3) Making Christ Lord; 4) Discipleship; 5) Repentance of sins.

Defining faith (the essential of faith)

• The Greek word “pisteuo” means intelligent believing

• It is NOT a blind leap of “faith”

• You cannot have faith without content: 1) You can’t believe without something to believe; 2) Faith must be preceded by teaching; 3) The total value of faith depends on the validity of the content on which it rests. 4) Faith is created and sustained by content; 5) Faith is an act that is explicitly non-meritorious

Justification by faith

• Simplicity of condition (faith)

• Enormity of blessing (justified)

Is an “invitation” needed?

• Listening ears

• Responsive God

• No invitation needed