GOD IS FAITHFUL
“God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9
“Faithful” is defined as “firm in adherence to promises”. Jeremiah wrote, “Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23
I. GOD IS FAITHFUL TO SAVE
Sometimes we wonder why one translation will translate a word, a phrase or a verse differently from other excellent translations. The reason is that at times it is difficult to set forth all that is contained in that word or phrase, especially in translating the Greek New Testament. Great scholars from all over the world combined their expertise in translating all the leading translations of the Bible that we have today. Here are three excellent translations of the Bible that together present a rather complete rendering of the Greek word “åiò” (pronounced “ice”). As you notice the variations, keep in mind that they are all correct. Serious Bible students should have several good translations in their bookcase.
“Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25 NKJV. We accept this translation of “åiò” as saying that God is able to save the vilest of all sinners. This speaks of the infinite reach of our Lord Jesus.
“Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25 NASB. This translation embodies another great truth, the eternal security of the believer. This speaks of the longevity of the salvation found in Christ.
“Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:25 NIV. This translation speaks of extent; not a half-way salvation but a complete salvation…100%!
II. GOD IS FAITHFUL TO KEEP
“So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” 1 Peter 4:19 NIV. In his first epistle, Peter encourages the saints who are enduring persecution and suffering. In this verse Peter encourages those who experience such trials and tribulations to fully rely upon God who is our faithful Creator.
In this wonderful benediction, Jude writes, “To Him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy-- to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.” Jude 24-25 NIV
Paul declares his complete confidence in the faithfulness of our Lord Jesus. “For I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.” 2 Timothy 1:12 NKJV.
III. GOD IS FAITHFUL TO PROTECT
“But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3 NIV.
Paul had more than his share of Satan’s vicious attacks. Writing from experience, he could assure the believers that the Lord would sustain them in their hour of trial.
“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
IV. GOD IS FAITHFUL TO FORGIVE
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.
What a blessed truth to lean on! We recognize that all sin and come short of the glory of God. But when we sin, and most surely we will, we can confess our sins unto our gracious God who will forgive us completely.
