The nature and characteristics of faith – Part 3
In the healing of the paralytic in Luke 5, Jesus indirectly teaches us the importance and characteristics of faith. He teaches us that faith attracts God’s attention. In verse 20 we read, “When He saw their faith, He said to him, “Man, your sins are forgiven you” (Luke 5:20 NKJV).
The story further brings out other qualities of faith. Faith is desperate. The men displayed unusual desperation, as they tried to get into the place where Jesus was with their friend. No wonder Jesus commended their faith. Faith perseveres towards the desired goal. They showed great perseverance by trying to remove the roof of the house at all cost. Their action teaches us that faith is active; the actions of faith are visible. We also see that faith can appropriate miracles.
Faith is willing to undergo any kind of sufferings until its goal is achieved. Shedrack, Meshack and Abednego resolutely refused to bow to the image of King Nebuchadnezzar and were ready to die if need be. They were thrown into the fire but emerged victoriously.
Faith confesses and declares its desires and intentions. In Mk.11: 22-23 Jesus taught, “So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says” (Mark 11:22-23 NKJV).
The story about the Centurion in Luke 7:1-10 further reveals a very interesting dimension about faith that we need to highlight. The point is that faith must be on Jesus and in the power of His word. Faith in the words of Jesus yields results. We cannot claim that we have faith in God and not believe in His word. God’s word is synonymous with His name. God’s word is synonymous with His character. God’s word is the means by which He displays His power.
When they sent for Jesus to come and heal the servant of the Centurion, He agreed to go with them. But before He got to the house, the Centurion sent a word to Jesus saying, “…Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed” (Luke 7:9-10 NKJV).
Have faith in God and in His word. God’s word is His honour and integrity. The word of God is quick and active. Faith must connect with the word of God to get results. Our ability to put our faith in the word of God yields results. This is why Psalm 107:20 states, “He sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions” (Psalms 107:20 NKJV). Unless we have faith in His Word, we can never see results. (Contact: pastoracukachi@gmail.com.
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