What is faith?

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(CB] "Catholic Bible Fireside church and School Edition."

Does true faith that saves us take place when we attend a church service, receive the sacraments, and accept the Roman Catholic traditions? Or is there a personal commitment "personal all-in" commitment? Years ago, a man known as the "Great Blondin” carried his manager on his back as he crossed Niagara Falls on a tightrope. A spectator praised him for his skill and the faith of the man on his back. When the spectator was asked if he would like to cross the same way. The answer was no thanks. That is one example of observing or having faith.

Faith is the means by which we live in response to the commands given to each one of us in the Good News of the Bible, [known as the gospel] That is what Romans 12;1 [CB] page 231 New Testament) is saying to you and I. “Therefore, I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [going all in] which is your spiritual service of worship." What does this mean? How do I become a "living sacrifice"? This will be covered in a separate printout" Being Born-again."

Matthew 7:21 [CB] page 25 New Testament says "Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter." What is the will of my Father? Does this mean just go to church and be an observer? Our lives are "transformed" by placing our faith in the reading and application of God's Word the Bible.

True faith in Jesus Christ [born-again) will produce good works (fruit)? This is spelled out in detail in James 1:22-25. (CB) page 350 New Testament Your born-again character will bear the fruit of the Spirit that lives in you through your faith in God. Verses 22-25 "But prove yourself doers of the Word and not merely hearers..."

Read John 15:1-7. (CB] page 167 New Testament I'm quoting verses 1-2 "I'm the true vine and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit...." So, what does the fruit look like? Galatians 5:22-23 [CB) page 283 New Testament "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, Kindness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control; against such things, there is no law." This fruit is the result of becoming a born-again believer, the church and traditions do not save you and me, but in what Jesus did on the cross for you and me. It is a free gift.

Please note, “joy and peace" are fruit, of the Spirit, which is hard to obtain if you are not sure you are going to heaven. A printout named "eternal security" will cover what the bible has to say about your security.

Have questions? Email Gary: bibleanswer75@gmail.com