1. The Kind Of Faith Jesus Desires Mark 16:15-16

2. What Is Faith?  To find an accurate definition, one must consult a reliable authority (Rom. 10:17)  Faith and the word of God are definitely linked together  Is a definition of faith in the word of God?

3.  Hebrews 11:1 is such a definition  [KJV Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen]  [ASV Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen]  Robinson’s Lexicon of the Greek New Testament: [Faith is confidence as to things hoped for; conviction as to things not seen] Two things are clearly contained in faith - - confidence and conviction Faith is related to two classes of objects: Things hoped for & things unseen

4.  A couple of examples in Hebrews 11  Abel (Heb. 11:4). This says nothing about Abel having a more excellent faith than Cain. Abel offered a more excellent sacrifice. His offer was to an unseen God with the hope of receiving a blessing. He was moved by confidence and conviction  Abraham (Heb. 11:8). Abraham was called by an unseen God and promised an inheritance. He set out on his journey full of confidence and conviction

5.  A practical application.  The New Testament reveals baptism for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). Baptism is said to wash away sins (Acts 22:16) and to save (Mk. 16:16)  This is commanded by an unseen God. The very act itself does not allow one to actually see what is said to take place. Yet it is done with the expectation of receiving the forgiveness of sins. This is confidence and conviction

6. Terms Of Faith  “Faith is to be determined as to what is acceptable on my terms”  This simply misses the mark because faith is not determined on our terms  Faith is determined on God’s terms, what pleases Him (Heb. 11:6)  Please notice once again Romans 10:17.  What could be clearer?  It is God’s terms that determine faith

7.  Facts for faith  God word has been delivered (Heb. 1:1-2)  God’s word is knowable (Jn. 8:31-32)  These things are revealed in order to be believed (Jn. 20:30-31)  Faith is unto salvation (Heb. 10:39b)  Faith is an obedient faith (Acts 6:7; Heb. 5:9)  The just are to live by faith (Rom. 1:17; Gal. 3:11; Heb. 10:38)  Without faith there is nothing (Jn. 8:24; Mk. 16:16b)