Article 22 treats the subject of faith. Faith is that tie uniting us to Jesus Christ. Commonly, faith is first distinguished as a potential, i.e., a part of the seed of life given us in our regeneration. It is this potential which makes believing possible. Secondly, we speak of faith as actual, that is, the act of conscious believing. This is the visible growth developing out of the seed (potential).
Saving faith includes a “certain knowledge” and a “hearty confidence” (L.D. 7). We are to know (1) intellectually the truths of Scripture, but also (2) know these truths as a matter of personal experience. At the same time, there is the confidence whereby we cling to God and His Son Jesus Christ, believing that God will preserve us.
Faith does not earn or merit salvation. The idea of the Roman Catholic church is contradicted by the article when it asserts: either He is a complete Savior or He is no Savior at all. The Roman Catholic church taught that our works, in part, merit our salvation. We insist: faith is not a work but a means or instrument unto salvation.
Faith as instrument unto salvation is to be distinguished from the Arminian teaching that faith is the hand whereby we reach out to take salvation. The latter makes faith to be the work of man; the former makes it a part of the gift of salvation.
QUESTIONS:
1. What does Ephesians 2:8 say of faith?
2. What is “historical” faith? “Miraculous” faith? “Temporary” faith?
3. Gives Scriptural examples of miraculous faith. Of temporary faith.
4. What may lead to “temporary” faith?
5. Is faith always the same in every Christian? Explain.
6. Do we receive the ability to believe through baptism? Explain.
7. Can one be saved without believing? Explain your answer.
8. Is it possible for one to believe-yet not be an elect who is brought to heaven? Explain.