JESUS THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Hebrews 12:2
Key Verse:
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:2
Supporting Texts: Philippians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4
INTRODUCTION:
Faith is a journey that requires divine guidance, endurance, and perseverance. Jesus, as the Author and Finisher, ensures that every believer begins and completes their faith journey successfully. He initiates faith in our hearts and continues to guide, strengthen, and perfect it through every circumstance.
Many believers struggle with uncertainty, delays, and challenges along their spiritual journey. Understanding that Jesus is both the Author and Finisher of faith brings assurance, comfort, and confidence that no matter the obstacles, He will see us through to the end. This truth inspires steadfastness and hope in every stage of spiritual growth.
Recognizing Jesus as the perfecter of faith also calls believers to active participation. Our faith must be exercised, nurtured, and aligned with God’s Word, while relying on the unending strength, guidance, and sustaining power of Christ to reach maturity.
1. JESUS IS THE AUTHOR OF OUR FAITH
Christ initiates faith in our hearts, giving the divine spark that leads to salvation and spiritual growth.
a) The Beginning of Faith (Ephesians 2:8). Salvation begins with God’s gift of faith, which He places in every believer’s heart.
b) Faith as a Divine Seed (Luke 17:5-6). Jesus plants faith that, though small, has the potential to move mountains and transform lives.
c) Assurance of God’s Work (Philippians 1:6). God begins a work in our hearts that He is committed to completing.
d) Faith Activated by the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). The Holy Spirit nurtures and strengthens faith, producing spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
Biblical Example:
The faith of Abraham (Romans 4:20-21) was initiated by God, demonstrating that He is the Author of faith who sets believers on the path of righteousness.
2. JESUS IS THE FINISHER OF OUR FAITH
Christ sustains, perfects, and brings our faith journey to its intended completion, ensuring we remain steadfast.
a) Perseverance through Trials (James 1:2-4). Enduring trials under Christ’s guidance produces maturity, patience, and strengthened faith.
b) Guidance in Difficult Times (Proverbs 3:5-6). Jesus directs every step, ensuring that no challenge derails our faith journey.
c) Completion of God’s Purpose (Philippians 2:13). He perfects our faith, equipping us to fulfill the purpose God has set for our lives.
d) Reward of Faithfulness (Revelation 2:10). Faithfulness to Christ leads to eternal reward and the joy of seeing God’s promises fulfilled.
Biblical Example:
Paul’s perseverance (2 Timothy 4:7-8) illustrates that Jesus completes the work He begins in every faithful believer.
3. JESUS PERFECTS FAITH THROUGH ENDURANCE
The process of spiritual growth involves trials, challenges, and obedience, all of which Christ uses to perfect our faith.
a) Strength in Weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). God’s power is made perfect in our weakness, refining our faith.
b) Patience in Waiting (Romans 5:3-5). Faith is strengthened and perfected as we endure suffering with hope.
c) Transformation through Obedience (Hebrews 5:8-9). Obedience to God under Christ’s guidance molds our character and faith.
d) Growth by Trials (1 Peter 1:6-7). Trials test, purify, and strengthen faith, resulting in praise, glory, and honor at Christ’s return.
Biblical Example:
Job’s faith (Job 1:21–22) was tested and refined through suffering, showing how God perfects faith through endurance.
4. OUR RESPONSIBILITY IN THE FAITH JOURNEY
Believers are called to respond actively to the faith Jesus initiates and perfects.
a) Daily Exercise of Faith (Hebrews 11:6). Faith requires trust, obedience, and consistent reliance on God’s promises.
b) Commitment to Spiritual Growth (2 Peter 3:18). Believers are to grow in grace and knowledge, cooperating with Christ’s perfecting work.
c) Abiding in Christ (John 15:4-5). Continuous fellowship with Jesus sustains faith and spiritual vitality.
d) Witnessing Through Faith (Acts 1:8). Faith expressed through action impacts lives and glorifies God in the world.
Biblical Example:
The disciples’ growth from fear to boldness (Acts 2:1-4; Acts 4:13) demonstrates their cooperation with Christ’s perfecting work through the Holy Spirit.
CONCLUSION:
Jesus, as the Author and Finisher of our faith, provides the initiation, sustenance, and completion of our spiritual journey. His work guarantees that no believer who trusts and abides in Him will be left incomplete. Understanding this truth brings confidence, hope, and perseverance amid trials.
Believers are called to actively nurture their faith, cooperate with Christ’s refining work, and remain steadfast in the pursuit of spiritual maturity. By doing so, we glorify Jesus and participate fully in the eternal rewards of faithfulness.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, strengthen my faith in every stage of my spiritual journey.
2. Father, help me to trust You completely as the Author of my faith.
3. Lord, perfect the work You have begun in my life.
4. Father, give me endurance to overcome trials and challenges.
5. Lord, increase my spiritual maturity and understanding of Your Word.
6. Father, help me to abide in Christ daily for continuous growth.
7. Lord, guide me in making faith-filled decisions that honor You.
8. Father, purify my heart and mind to align with Your perfect will.
9. Lord, empower me to bear fruit through my faith and testimony.
10. Father, bring my faith journey to completion in glory and eternal reward.
