FAITH AND TRUST

 

Acts 4:32-35; 1 John 1:1-2:2; John 20:19-31

Introduction 

God wants us to grow in faith, demonstrate love and live at peace with ourself and with others. But how? It’s not something we can just wish for or work up on our own. How can we grow in faith, love and peace?

Our focus for today's discussion is to reflect on how we can nurture growth in faith, love and peace. 

Regarding faith, Jesus asked this question: “When the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8). 

Why was Jesus concerned about people having faith? Hebrews 11:6 puts it, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him [God]."

Speaking of love, Jesus said,  “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you," Luke 6:27.

Being at peace, Jesus says, "be at peace with each other.” 

Nurturing growth in faith, love and peace are key elements Christ demonstrated and expects us to do same.

Bible Exploration 

1. In Acts 4:32-35, we witness the early Christian community sharing everything they had, experiencing a deep unity born out of love and faith in Christ. 

This communal spirit reminds us of the importance of selflessness, generosity, and compassion within the body of believers. 

It challenges us to cultivate a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity, trusting in God's provision and caring for those in need.

2. The passage from 1 John 1:1-2:2 emphasizes the significance of fellowship and the truth that comes from living in the light of Christ. 

John writes,​ "My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One." (1 John 2:1)

As we grow in faith, we grow out of sin. As we walk in the light, our fellowship with one another grows deeper, and we experience the cleansing power of His blood, which brings forgiveness and redemption. 

This growth in intimacy with God and each other is fundamental to love and peace in our spiritual journey and the development of a robust, mature faith.

3. Faith and fear are light and darkness, when faith grows fear diminish and vice versa. In John 20:19-31, we encounter the disciples locked in fear after Jesus' crucifixion, yet Jesus appears among them, offering His peace and commissioning them to continue His mission. 

The doubt of Thomas serves as a reminder of our own moments of uncertainty and the gentle patience of Christ in guiding us towards deeper belief. 

As we grow in faith, we are called to share the peace of Christ with others, embodying His love and reconciliation in a world often marked by division and strife.

So, how do we nurture growth in faith, love, and peace in our lives?

Firstly, through regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with fellow believers. These spiritual disciplines serve as nourishment for our souls, deepening our understanding of God's love and His purposes for us.

As boring difficult this seem to be, they are the very water that is needed to grow in faith, love and peace. Because, without Christ we can do nothing worthwhile for our lives. 

Secondly, by embracing challenges and trials as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. In moments of difficulty, our faith is refined, and our capacity to love and extend grace expands, leading to a deeper sense of peace that surpasses understanding.

Lastly, by actively living out our faith through acts of service, kindness, and compassion towards others. Our actions speak volumes about the authenticity of our faith and our commitment to embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Conclusion 

As we reflect on these passages and the call to growth in faith, love, and peace, let us be encouraged and inspired to pursue a deeper, more vibrant relationship with God and one another. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of Christ's love, and may we be agents of His peace in a world in need of hope and reconciliation. Amen.

Shalom aleichem...