A Hard Look At Our Convictions

Hebrews 11:6

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6)

The Ingredients Of Personal FaithCredence {belief} (Jn. 8:24)

This includes not only the what, but also the why (1 Peter 3:15)

Confidence {trust} (2 Tim. 1:12)Real trust produces unconditional obedience (Lk. 5:4-5)

Constancy {faithful} (Heb. 3:14)Right to the end (2 Tim. 4:7-8; Rev. 2:10)

What About Traditions?Some people have a faith that

is a little more than tradition (Mk. 7:1-9)Not really their ownNo really conviction in it

This does not mean tradition is ALWAYS wrong or vain (2 Tim. 3:14-15; 2 Thess. 2:15)

Real faith is more than traditionThe difference is not in the CONTENT, but in the QUALITY of our faith

Faith based on tradition will almost always be weak

Real faith stands the test (1 Peter 1:6-7)

[Especially when dealing with things like temptation or hardship or judgment]

How May We Increase Our Faith?The apostles saw a need for such

increase (Lk. 17:5)Familiarity and application

Faith through the word (Rom. 10:17)

Welcoming the word in (Col. 3:16a)Living by faith (Gal. 2:20; 3:11)This is how we grow/are built up (2 Peter 3:18; Acts 20:32)