Q86. What is faith in Jesus Christ?
Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace in which we receive and rest on him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Hebrews 10:39
“But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.”
John 1:12
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”
Isaiah 26:3–4
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:”
Philippians 3:9
“And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:”
Galatians 2:16
“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What is faith in Jesus Christ?
- 2
What does it mean to "rest on him alone" for salvation?
- 3
Do you think there is a difference between knowing about Jesus and trusting in Jesus?
Illustration
A chair might look strong, but you are not resting on it until you sit down. You can know a chair is solid and still stand next to it all day. Faith is sitting down. It means putting the full weight of your hope on Jesus and not on yourself.
Application
Because Jesus offers himself to you in the gospel, faith is receiving him as a gift. Talk to God today and tell him where you are tempted to trust in your own goodness instead of in Christ. Ask him to help you rest on Jesus alone.