We have been discussing the faith necessary for the unbeliever to come to God. Belief is the faith of the unbeliever. If they believe on Jesus they shall be saved. Repentance through belief on Jesus is the only righteous fruit someone without the Holy Ghost can offer to God.
Faith is righteousness in the sight of God. It is what justifies us. Justified here means that we have been given the right to live forever. However this justification only occurs when God acts upon the belief we present to Him while seeking for the Holy Ghost.
Romans 3:20-22 KJV
[20] Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. [21] But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; [22] Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
When we believe, we qualify to receive the Holy Ghost and to be justified. We qualify to become the righteousness of God. However this can only be done by the faith of Jesus Christ, which is only given to those that believe.
Notice that there is a distinction between belief and the faith of Jesus Christ? Well, stay tuned in the series as we continue to discern faith.
Activity: Discuss with a friend what true repentance and belief is.
This series is based on the book "Discerning Faith", by Mary Banks. Get your copy on Amazon at the link below
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