In discussing the necessity of belief and confession, Paul says, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” (Rom. 10:14). Just three verses later Paul said, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). Thus, we know that we must hear the gospel in order to believe Jesus is the Son of God.

Belief comes through listening to the men who wrote the New Testament by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (Jn. 16:13). Peter told the people on Pentecost to “heed my words” (Acts 2:14). When Saul asked what he must do, Jesus said, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (Acts 9:6; cf. 22:13-16). The angel informed Cornelius that Peter would “tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved” (Acts 11:14).

It is obvious, then, that biblical faith does not come by a mysterious experience or any supernatural way. Therefore, hear the gospel to have saving faith.

Steven F. Deaton