Lord’s Day 25
Q65. We share in Christ by faith alone. Where does that faith come from?
The Holy Spirit creates it in our hearts through the preaching of the gospel, and makes it stronger through our use of the sacraments.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
John 3:5
Ephesians 2:8
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:”
Philippians 1:29
Romans 10:17
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
1 Peter 1:23–25
Matthew 28:19–20
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
1 Corinthians 10:16
“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
Where does saving faith come from?
- 2
What are the two ways the Holy Spirit works to give and strengthen faith?
- 3
Why do you think God uses ordinary things like preaching and sacraments to build your faith?
Illustration
A fire needs fuel to keep burning. The Holy Spirit lights the fire of faith in your heart, and then he feeds it through the preaching of God's Word and the sacraments. These are the means God chose to keep your faith alive and growing.
Application
Pay close attention the next time you hear a sermon or see the sacraments at church. Ask the Holy Spirit to use those ordinary moments to strengthen your trust in Christ. God works through simple means to do extraordinary things in your heart.