The Grace of Faith, whereby the Elect are enabled to beleive to the saving of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts; and is ordinarily wrought by the Ministry of thea Word; by which also, and by the administration of Baptisme, and the Lords Supper, Prayer and other Means appointed of God, it is increased,b and strengthned.c
By this Faith, a Christian believeth to be true, whatsoever is revealed in the Word, for the Authority of God himself; and also apprehendeth an excellency therein,a above all other Writings; and all things in the world: as it bears forth the Glory of God in his Attributes, the excellency of Christ in his Nature and Offices; and the Power and Fullness of the Holy Spirit in his Workings, and Operations; and so is enabled tob cast his Soul upon the truth thus beleived; and also acteth differently, upon that which each particular, passage thereof containeth; yeilding obedience to thec commands, trembling at thed threatnings, and embracing thee promises of God, for this life, and that which is to come: But the principal acts of Saving Faith, have immediate relation to Christ, accepting, receiving, and resting uponf him alone, for Justification, Sanctification, and Eternal Life, by vertue of the Covenant of Grace.g
a. Acts 24:14
Acts 24:14
King James VersionBerean Standard Bible
b. Psalm 19:7–10; 119:72
Psalm 19:7–10
Psalm 119:72
King James VersionBerean Standard Bible
c. 2 Timothy 1:12
2 Timothy 1:12
King James VersionBerean Standard Bible
d. John 15:14
John 15:14
King James VersionBerean Standard Bible
e. Isaiah 66:2
Isaiah 66:2
King James VersionBerean Standard Bible
f. Hebrews 11:13
Hebrews 11:13
King James VersionBerean Standard Bible
g. John 1:12; Acts 16:31; Galatians 2:20; Acts 15:11
This Faith although it be different in degrees, and may be weak, or strong; yet it is in the least degree of it, different in the kind, or nature of it (as is all other saving Grace) from the Faith,a and common grace of temporary beleivers; and therefore though it may be many times assailed, and weakned; yet it getsb the victory; growing up in many, to the attainment of a fullc assurance through Christ, who is both the Authord and finisher of our Faith.e
