In order to intelligently discuss a subject everyone involved in the discussion must agree on the definition of the terms to be used in the discussion. Without term definition we invariably find ourselves, as we say, “comparing apples to oranges.” Since “faith” and “feelings” are the subjects of this series, let us determine the true meanings behind those words. Let us first define “faith” in that it is the most important subject in any discussion concerning salvation and how it is attained. Without faith there can be no salvation. Therefore it is extremely important that we know exactly what it is and how we can appropriate it.

Those who diligently study the Holy Scriptures have found that the Lord always has more than one thing to say about a subject. He also has a habit of using different Words when discussing a subject a second or third time. Without this understanding a Bible reader will conclude that He is talking about two, or perhaps three, different subjects. With that in mind, let us notice how He said the exact same thing about the exact same subject on two separate occasions using two entirely different sets of Words. In Romans 1:17 the Father prompts the Apostle Paul to write that man must “live by faith.” Now let us return to an earlier time when He had Jesus of Nazareth proclaim that man must “… live by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Mat. 4:4). Here we find the Lord making two different statements through two different men using two different sets of Words while saying the same thing about the same subject–His Word which we know as the Holy Bible. Using two different statements by two different people we find the Almighty telling us that in order to live eternally with Him in His kingdom man must live 1) BY FAITH and 2) BY HIS WORD. Therefore, the two entities–faith and His Word–are equal and essential in the life of one who seeks salvation. In sum: FAITH AND GOD’S WORD CANNOT BE SEPARATED.

Serious Bible students have found that the Lord does not stop with those two statements concerning the subject of faith. In Hebrews 11:1 He speaks of faith as “the SUBSTANCE of things hoped for, the EVIDENCE of things not seen.” The Words “substance” and “evidence” refer to things that can be verified as already existing using man’s five senses–his capacity to feel, taste, hear, see and smell. With rare exception these senses are common to all human beings and are important aspects of man’s daily life.

But God was not finished with man when He gave him those five senses. There is yet another sense that, though available to all men, is found in only a few. The scientific world refuses to acknowledge this sense in that it cannot be explained using human intelligence. The religious community, while acknowledging its existence, refuses to embrace it in its purest form. That sense is faith–Biblically-defined, ultimately-powerful, God-commanded faith. In the coming postings we will examine this gift from God which man must live by in order to join Him in His kingdom following the return of His Son to earth. L.J.