What Is Faith? Series

WHAT IS FAITH?

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 11:1

Supporting Texts: Romans 10:17, James 2:17, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Mark 11:22-24

INTRODUCTION:

Faith is one of the most central and powerful themes in the Christian life. It is the foundation upon which our relationship with God stands and the key by which we access the promises of God. Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6), and without it, the Christian walk is empty and ineffective.

Many people talk about faith, but few understand what it truly means. Is faith merely believing something? Is it a feeling, a hope, or a blind leap? The Bible teaches that faith is a spiritual force, based on the Word of God, and it must be active, living, and visible through obedience and trust in God’s promises.

This teaching will explore the nature of faith—what it is, how it works, and how it transforms our lives when properly understood and applied.

1. FAITH IS THE SUBSTANCE OF THINGS HOPED FOR

Faith gives tangible reality to what we hope for based on God’s Word.

a) Faith is not mere wishing (Romans 4:17):

Faith calls those things that are not as though they were.

b) Faith makes invisible things real (Hebrews 11:3):

By faith, we understand the world was formed by God's command.

c) Faith operates beyond the senses (2 Corinthians 5:7):

We walk by faith, not by sight.

d) Faith is rooted in confidence (Hebrews 10:35):

It gives us the boldness to hold on until manifestation.

Biblical Example: Noah built the ark by faith, even when he had never seen rain (Hebrews 11:7).

2. FAITH COMES BY HEARING THE WORD OF GOD

Faith is born and grows through continual exposure to God’s Word.

a) The Word is the seed of faith (Luke 8:11):

The Word planted in the heart produces faith.

b) Hearing must be constant (Romans 10:17):

Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word.

c) Doubt grows in silence (Matthew 13:19):

When the Word is not received, faith cannot grow.

d) Meditating on the Word strengthens faith (Joshua 1:8):

Consistent meditation builds spiritual confidence.

Biblical Example: The centurion’s faith in Jesus’ word brought healing to his servant (Matthew 8:8-10).

3. FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD

True faith produces visible actions that align with what is believed.

a) Faith must be demonstrated (James 2:18):

Show your faith by your works.

b) Faith that acts pleases God (Hebrews 11:6):

It requires action to prove trust in God.

c) Obedience is a fruit of faith (Romans 1:5):

Real faith submits to God's instructions.

d) Works complete faith (James 2:22):

Faith and actions work together to bring results.

Biblical Example: Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac proved his faith (Genesis 22:1-12).

4. FAITH MOVES MOUNTAINS

Faith has divine power to overcome impossible situations.

a) Faith speaks boldly (Mark 11:23):

Faith declares what it believes into existence.

b) Faith does not doubt (Matthew 21:21):

A heart free from doubt sees the miraculous.

c) Faith expects answers (James 1:6-7):

Ask in faith, not wavering.

d) Faith gives victory (1 John 5:4):

It overcomes the world and every challenge.

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood was healed by her persistent faith (Mark 5:25-34).

CONCLUSION:

Faith is not just a religious idea—it is the spiritual force that connects us to God's power and purpose. It is confidence in God’s Word, conviction in the unseen, and commitment to act according to God’s truth. As believers, we must seek to grow in faith daily, feed on the Word, and walk in obedience, knowing that through faith, nothing is impossible.

Let us hold fast to our faith, act on it, and watch God do the miraculous in our lives.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, increase my faith daily through Your Word.

2. Father, help me to walk by faith and not by sight.

3. I break the spirit of doubt and unbelief in my life.

4. Let my faith produce visible works of obedience.

5. Lord, teach me to trust You fully in all situations.

6. Father, help me meditate on Your promises continually.

7. Strengthen my heart to believe when it seems impossible.

8. Let my faith move mountains in my life.

9. Give me boldness to declare Your Word over every challenge.

10. I receive supernatural victory through faith in Jesus.