“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ” (10:17, NIV). This verse is speaking to all those who are followers of Jesus Christ. It reminds us of our task and our method.
According to Romans 10:17, our goal is “faith.” We serve together in order to help people find faith. And for those who already have faith, we help them to grow in faith. As we help others, we grow in our own faith, too. God’s Spirit knits our souls together with him and with one another into a thriving community of faith that serves his Kingdom and enjoys his blessings.
The faith of Romans 10:17 is not just any faith, but faith that comes “through the word of Christ.” The Bible tells us that some faith is in vain. Faith in anything or anyone other than Jesus Christ is not saving faith. Other faiths may be comforting faiths, or satisfying faiths, or popular faiths, or even impressive faiths. But only faith in Christ is saving faith.
Faith comes from “hearing the message.” We need not worry about finding a message; we have one already. Jesus sacrificed himself as a sin offering so that all who place their faith in him will be completely forgiven and eternally blessed by God.
Faith comes from “hearing the message.” The message is the word of Christ. As followers of Jesus we have the great opportunity and challenge to tell the Good News about Jesus Christ. We participate in God’s Kingdom work by making sure that every child and every adult possible hears and understands the great message of saving faith through Jesus Christ.
Every local church exists in order to help people find faith and to grow in faith. As people are saved and strengthened in faith, the Body of Christ is built up. And as we carry out our God-given mission we bring glory to God the Father who saves us through his Son Christ Jesus.
May the Lord empower us to grow strong in the faith,
Brother Richard Foster, Pastor
Grace Baptist Church, Camden, AR
brotherrichardsblog.com 