A False Faith That Is No Faith at All

What is true faith?

• This question implies that there is also a false faith, which is really no faith at all, but appears to be faith at first. 
• Sometimes people possess a great knowledge of the Bible. 
• They can quote many texts, yet they do not have faith, because they do not accept the promises therein. 
• They do not place their trust in Christ. 
• Some call this “historical faith.”

In reality, “historical faith” is no faith at all. 

• For faith is more than just a sure knowledge of Scripture. 
• It is also an acknowledgment that what Scripture says is true. 

Sometimes we meet people who are very zealous for the Christian religion. 

• Yet after a time their zeal dies and they no longer serve the Lord or live according to His commandments. 
• It is like the seed that fell on shallow ground in the parable of Matthew 13. 
• Some call this “temporary faith.” 

In reality, “temporary faith” is no faith at all. 

• For true faith never dies. 
• Those who truly believe will never fall away from faith completely. 
• They may fall into sin, but they will never cease to believe. 
• For the seed of regeneration is an imperishable seed that will not die. 
• Peter wrote, “[You have] been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever” (1 Peter 1:23). 
• Faith is worked in our hearts by the power of God, and God’s power is invincible. 
• Though it might be resisted, it cannot be conquered.

To be continued...

The Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 7 Only By True Faith by Van Delden