The Power of Faith in God’s Redemption Plan
Isaac Megbolugbe
June 8, 2024
Introduction
Faith is a fundamental concept in Christianity, and it plays a crucial role in God’s redemption plan. From justification to glorification, faith is the instrument that connects us to God’s grace, enabling us to live a life pleasing to Him. In this article, we will explore the essential role of faith in God’s redemption plan, highlighting its importance in justification, sanctification, and glorification.
Justification
Faith is the means by which we are justified before God (Romans 3:28, Galatians 2:16). Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are declared righteous, and our sins are forgiven (Romans 3:22-24). Faith appropriates Christ’s righteousness to us, making it our own (2 Corinthians 5:21). Without faith, it is impossible to be justified before God (Galatians 3:24-26).
Sanctification
Faith is also essential for sanctification, the process of being set apart for God’s purposes and made holy (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14). As we walk by faith, we are transformed into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18) and enabled to live a life pleasing to God (Hebrews 11:6). Faith accesses the grace of God, empowering us to live a sanctified life (Romans 5:2).
Glorification
Finally, faith is necessary for glorification, the ultimate redemption of our bodies and souls (Romans 8:23-25). Through faith, we are assured of our future glorification and given a glimpse of our eternal inheritance (Colossians 1:5, 1 Peter 1:4). Faith unites us with Christ, guaranteeing our future glorification (Romans 8:29-30).
The Instrument of Faith
The instrument of faith works in the following way:
1. Hearing: We hear the message of the Gospel (Romans 10:17).
2. Belief: We believe the message, trusting in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior (John 3:16).
3. Appropriation: Through faith, we appropriate Christ’s righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21).
4. Union: We are united with Christ, becoming one with Him (Romans 6:5).
5. Transformation: As we walk by faith, we are transformed into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18).
6. Access: Faith gives us access to God’s grace (Romans 5:2).
7. Assurance: Faith provides assurance of our salvation (1 Peter 1:4).
Faith is not a work we do but a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9). It’s a trust in God’s promises and a surrender to His will. As we exercise faith, we are drawn closer to God, and our lives are transformed by His grace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, faith is the instrument by which we are justified, sanctified, and glorified. It is the means by which we access God’s grace, appropriating Christ’s righteousness and enabling us to live a life pleasing to God. Without faith, it is impossible to please God or to be redeemed (Hebrews 11:6). May we continue to exercise faith, trusting in God’s promises and surrendering to His will.
References:
– The Holy Bible (ESV)
– John MacArthur, “The MacArthur New Testament Commentary” (Moody Publishers)
– Charles Spurgeon, “Spurgeon’s Sermons” (Baker Books)
– Craig Blomberg, “Neither Poverty nor Riches” (Eerdmans)
– Life, Hope & Truth, “What is Faith?”
– Britannica, “Faith”
– Encyclopedia Britannica, “Faith”
