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This week is the first of three messages George is giving on “Faith”.

1. “The Function of Faith”.

2. “The Foundation of Faith”.

3. “The Focus of Faith”.

This week’s study is title “The Function of Faith”.

When you think of the word ‘Faith’ what comes to mind? Explain the meaning of ‘Faith’ in a general sense and Biblical ‘Faith’ and the difference(s).

If someone were to say to you ‘I have faith’, how would you discern whether it is saving faith or not? Can people just have ‘faith in faith’?

Let’s look specifically at Biblical ‘Faith’.

1. Faith is a Gift.

What does the writer to the Hebrews say in Hebrews 11:6?

According to Paul how does a person come to saving faith? Romans 10:17.

Who gives it? Ephesians 2:8-9. What else do these verses stress?

What point does Jesus make in John 6:44-45?

Read more about the supernatural aspect mentioned in 1Corinthians 2:6-16.

With the above in mind discuss in your group what part a person has in coming to faith in Christ? Can you confirm your answer based on God’s Word?

2. The Object of our Faith.

As Christians who and or what is the object of our faith?

Read and discuss Jesus’ words to Nicodemus in John 3:14-15 and the incident he is referring to in Numbers 21:4-9.

Read Acts 14:8-18. Discuss what Paul and Barnabas say in Acts 14:15-17.

3. Living by Faith.

Read about the example of Noah and Abraham. Hebrews 11:7-10.

How do we do we ‘Live by Faith’? What did Jesus say, John 20:24-29 and Paul, 2 Corinthians 5:7? Discuss the difference(s).

Read Romans 5:1-5 and then discuss the following comment George made….

‘The principle is this – An initial expression of faith brings you into a right relationship with God, a continuing expression of faith shows that the relationship is real.’

As you have time discuss as many of George’s practical applications….

So what is this “living by faith” supposed to look like, when you get up on Monday morning?

Living by faith will….

1. Give God an open invitation to be part of every aspect of your day – If you ever have to cancel the invitation, it probably means you are about to do something you shouldn’t do. (Luke 9:23, Romans 12:1-2.)*

2. Expect God’s presence & anticipate His provision. (Isaiah 41:10, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:25-34.)*

3. Hand over each situation, decision & involvement to God for His blessing – If you can’t ask God to bless what you are doing, you probably shouldn’t be doing it. (Psalm 32:8.)*

4. Consult God’s Word to guide your steps – A green light from God’s Word is a sure thing to know that God will give you success in what you do. (Psalm 119:105, 1John 5:14-15.)*

5. Make Prayer a constant conversation with God as you go through your day– you invited Him in, remember, so don’t ignore His companionship. (I Thessalonians 5:16-18.)*

Fear is the great enemy of faith. Fear distracts faith from its focus on God, but faith must hold on to the fact that God is greater than anything that might cause you to fear. (Romans 8:35-39.)*

Read 1John 4:17-18. Though these verses refer to fear on judgement day do you think the principle can be applied to our everyday living?

Has this study and George’s message been helpful? Share with each other your answer.

*Bible references added.

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