Faith, part I
Let’s begin to take a close look at the Christian virtues, or components of Christian character
listed in 2 Peter chapter 1. Faith is the foundation, the beginning point. Then we must diligently
work to add the seven elements that help us to be productive in God’s service. We understand
that these virtues or Christian graces are similar to the fruit of the Spirit, found in Gal. 5:22-23.
Paul stresses the divine aid available to us. Peter stresses human responsibility.
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see…And without
faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he
exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Heb. 11:1, 6). We believe in God
even though we do not see him face to face. His creation powerfully declares his existence:
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands…There is no
speech or language where their voice is not heard” (Psa. 19:1, 3). How could the world come
into existence? Only by the hand of almighty God (Gen. 1:1; Heb. 11:3). The world was made by
God and it is held together by God (John 1:3; Col. 1:15-17). Creation demands that we believe in
God (Rom. 1:19-20). One who fails to believe in God is without excuse (Psa. 14:1).
The same is true of Jesus, the Son of God (John 8:24). We have been given ample evidence that
his claim to be the only begotten Son of God is true (John 1:14; John 20:30-31). This faith leads
us to obey the Gospel and be saved (Rom. 16:25-26). Stay tuned…
To be a child of God is the greatest privilege we have, but we also have responsibility. May God bless us all as we work with his Spirit to develop the character the Father expects of his children. TC
