1.4.4 Faith and the sermon

Jesus Christ made it clear that faith in Him and His gospel is brought about by accepting the word of His ambassadors, His Apostles: "As You sent Me into the world I also have sent them into the world. I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word" (John 17: 18, 20).

The preaching of the gospel generates faith: "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10: 17).

The Risen One commissioned His Apostles to preach the gospel to all nations and to observe His word (Matthew 28: 19-20). With reference to salvation and future redemption, it is a fundamental requirement to accept the preaching of the gospel in faith. Concerning this, Mark 16: 16 states: "He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned."

SUMMARY

Faith is one of the fundamental realities of human life. (1.4)

The basis and content of the Christian faith is the triune God. Whenever God reveals Himself, He calls upon human beings to believe. Faith is an act of grace on the part of God, which human beings are to put into practice in their lives. (1.4)

In the old covenant, faith revolved around God, the Father, who revealed Himself as Creator, Protector, and Liberator. (1.4.1)

With the incarnation of God, the Son, the Old Testament promises concerning the coming Messiah were fulfilled. Since then, faith is also required in God, who is not only the Creator, but who also reveals Himself in Jesus. Through the rebirth out of water and the Spirit, Jesus Christ opens up the way for human beings to attain childhood in God as well as the opportunity to attain the status of firstling. (1.4.2)

Belief in God, the Holy Spirit, is the belief in the Spirit who currently leads into all truth and reveals God's will. (1.4.3)

The word of preaching of those sent by Jesus produces faith. In order to be saved, it is necessary to accept God's word imparted through the sermon. (1.4.4)