Faith In Jesus Christ IS Faith In God

Ephesians 1:15,16; Colossians 1:3,4; Mark 11:22,23;

2 Thessalonians 1:3-5

 

"Therefore, I also, after I heard of your FAITH IN THE LORD JESUS and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers......" (Ephesians 1:15,16)

"We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS and of your love for all the saints......" (Colossians 1:3,4)

I would like to examine the likelihood that the church in Ephesus, Colosse and Thessalonica had received (accepted as truth and were willing to walk in the light of) an understanding from God which graduated them, so to speak, to a place where God could continue to build. Foundation; initial floor; subsequent levels from there. Paul seemed ecstatic over what he had heard they "had".

"Have FAITH IN GOD (have the faith of God; have the God kind of faith). 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). The majority of the chief priests and scribes would not receive Jesus for who He is: the Christ Of God. They were unwilling to humble themselves under God's mighty hand and in His sight. The result was fruitlessness in them and those who listened to them. The mountain between them and God was intact. Could Paul be rejoicing because the churches mentioned had recognized the mountain and were speaking to it? Had he recognized that they were speaking to the mountain and doubting not, able to overcome unwillingness through Him? Did he understand that, if they wouldn't, they couldn't become all that he knew God wanted for them?

"We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other, SO THAT we ourselves boast of you among all the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure, which is manifest evidence of the righteous judgement of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer.......(2 Thessalonians 1:3-5).

Jesus' teachings will endure forever. They are life to those who find them. Have this faith in Him!