There’s Only One Faith — “The Faith”
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesThe Bible plainly states that there is “one faith” (Ephesians 4:5). So when men ask the question, “Of what faith are you?” they are displaying an ignorance of God’s Word. Nowhere in the Bible is faith spoken of in the plural form. The denominational world may have many “faiths,” but in the eyes of God there is only “one faith.”
God wishes us all to “come in the unity of the faith” (Ephesians 4:13); “to continue in the faith” (Acts 14:22); and be “established in the faith” (Acts 16:5). (Note that all bold emphases in this article are the author’s).
The inspired Scriptures tell us that we acquire this “one faith” by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). Religions differing from the “one faith” of the Bible, come from the traditions, customs, philosophies and creeds of men (cf. Matthew 15:1-10; Colossians 2:16-22; Titus 1:10-14). Since there is only “one” true gospel, there can be only “one” true faith (Gal. 1:8-9).
The Spirit warned that “some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1). Christians are admonished to, “stand fast in the faith,” and not be led astray by the doctrines of men (1 Corinthians 16:13). Paul further exhorts Christians to, “with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27) and to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3).
In the Scriptures, God has revealed a singular system of faith (or belief), and we should contend for it, fight for it, and work for it (Jude 1:3; 2 Timothy 4:7; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 1:13; Titus 1:9). The meaning of the original language is that “one faith” was delivered by God, one time for all time.
We only need to preach, believe and obey “the faith which was once delivered” (Jude 1:3 KJV). This “one faith” never needs additions or corrections (Deuteronomy 4:2; Proverbs 30:6; Revelation 22:18-19). We have no need for a modern gospel nor latter day revelations nor official interpreters.
The devil knows that if he can turn men away from “the faith,” they cannot be saved (Acts 13:8 KJV). Therefore, we must be diligent in faithfully preaching and teaching God’s Word to all the world (Matthew 28:19-20). The results being, “And the word of God increased; and the number if the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to “the faith” (Acts 6:7).
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