Several years ago Robert Jeffress was introducing then Texas governor Rick Perry at a Values Voters Summit. His introduction commended the faith of Perry and mentioned Mormonism as a cult.
Jeffress’ remarks produced a firestorm of criticism. He was condemned by multiple media outlets as being bigoted, intolerant, and narrow minded.
However, the ensuing conversation raised some interesting questions. Are all religions equally valid before God? Does it make any difference what you believe as long as you’re honest and sincere? What is the difference between Christianity and Islam or Buddhism?
And more to the issue where most of us live–what about the different “faiths” under the umbrella of “Christianity”? People used to ask, “What Faith are you?” Does God care which Faith you embrace?
As we continue our study of Ephesians 4:4-6, discussing our theme, “Fundamentals of Faith,” note again Paul’s inspired words via the Holy Spirit.
“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”
For the past three columns, we’ve discussed the Truth of one God, one Lord, and one Spirit. The same text tells us “there is one faith.”
Bible Expositor W. E. Vine defines faith as “Primarily a firm persuasion, a conviction based upon hearing. By metonymy, what is believed, the contents of belief, the faith.”
The expression “your faith” is found 35 times in the New Testament speaking of one’s trust, confidence, and conviction. Paul’s preaching was designed to instill confidence in “the power of God,” instead of “the wisdom of men” (1 Cor. 2:5).
However as Vine suggests, the word is used by metonymy. In other words, it substitutes an attribute or uses “a figure of speech that consists of the use of the name of one object or concept for that of another to which it is related.”
Ephesians 4:4 speaks of “the system of faith.” Consider these other Bible passages that use “faith” in the same way.
- “Earnestly contend for the faith” (Jude 3).
- “The faith of the gospel” (Phil. 1:27).
- “Obedient to the faith” (Ax. 6:7)
- “Continue in the faith” (Ax. 14:22).
- “Preaching the faith” (Gal. 1:23).
- “A true son in the faith” (1 Tim 1:2).
- “The mystery of the faith” (1 Tim. 3:9)
These and many of passages speak of the “one faith” that is the Gospel of Christ, the Word of God. Sometimes it is called the doctrine of God, of Christ, or the apostles doctrine. It is “the faith” that Jude affirmed was “once delivered to all the saints.” Over 30 times in the New Testament “the faith” is spoken of as the “one faith.” It is the faith Paul asserted he received by revelation of the Holy Sprit. He wrote it down. We can read it. We can understand it. We can believe it. And obey it.
The “one faith” provides our justification when we have faith in it. Paul put it this way Romans 5:1-2 as he used “faith” in both ways.
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
The “one faith” declares the grace and mercy of God. It reveals His plan for our salvation. It is how we can be made righteous in His sight. Enjoy peace of mind. And look forward with hope to a future reward.
As already noted, “the one faith,” has been revealed by the apostles. Jude’s expression “once delivered,” means for all time and for all people. There is no continuing revelation. There are no apostles today adding to the faith. No man, church, preacher, pastor, Bible teacher, or blogger has the right to add to or subtract from the “one faith”–”the faith of the gospel” (Rev. 22:18-19).
Just as surely as there is one God, one Lord, and one Spirit, there is one faith. We are called on to preach it. Protect it. Not pervert it. And to practice it.
G. K. Chesterton was right, “Christianity has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and not tried!”
–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman
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