Studies

Blind Faith or Sound Faith

Why do so many people fall for 'Get Rich Quick' schemes?
[Greed, ignorance, following the crowd, Blind Faith]

What do we mean by 'Blind Faith' ?
[No careful assessment, often just carried away by emotions]

How strong is Blind Faith ?
[It's fragile and, when tested, is not likely to survive]

How could Blind Religious Faith be dangerous ?
[Could follow an impressive preacher with false doctrines without questioning them]

So how should we set about Building Sound Faith ?

Let's see how Jesus built Sound Faith in his followers.

John 4: 46-54
Recap v. 48 "Unless you people …you will never believe."

At that time, prophets were expected to do amazing things. It caught attention and gave them authority.

It is interesting that none of Jesus' 33 miracles were ever challenged, even when he was being accused of blasphemy. (See John 10: 31-33)

But Jesus used his miracles to teach his disciples … not just to impress people, to attract crowds, to show compassion.

What lesson did Jesus teach here about Faith ?
[Jesus rewards trusting Faith. Miracles can happen through just praying for help and believing it will be granted. Impressive Signs and Wonders from men aren't needed]

Matt. 14: 13-21
What was Jesus teaching here about Faith ?
[Sound Faith means thinking big. With God's help, anything can be achieved. Also, disciples must care for one another, help to build up each other's Faith]

Matt. 14: 22-33
What did Jesus want his apostles to learn from this amazing miracle ?
[Sound Faith means putting trust into action, trying to do what Jesus did, taking a risk. But we can't do amazing things on our own. We must pray for guidance, for support]

Matt. 7: 21-23
What is Jesus telling us here about building a Saving Faith ?
[Signs and wonders can deceive us. We must focus on pleasing God. We must get to know the Bible and put it into practice. We must learn to recognise and reject false doctrine]

So, what have we learned from these examples of Jesus teaching his disciples ?

What must we do to ensure that our Faith is sound and strong, that we are able to withstand testing times ?
[We must be cautious in viewing the extravagant promises, signs and wonders of men, however convincing they may be.
We must study the Bible, trust God's promises from the Bible and pray for support in putting our learning into practice.
We must share our convicting experiences with others, help those in need and encourage those who are going through difficult times.
We must use our Faith to build others up. In doing this, we will also strengthen our own Faith]