There was a man whom God used powerfully. Thousands gathered in his meeting, healed, and transformed. The praise of people was a snare to him that he became haughty. One day, he declared that he would walk on the water like the Lord Jesus did. Alas, he stepped on the sea to sink but was saved by others. Paul warns believers to examine themselves by going through a self-test. (II Corinthians 13:5)
Devoted faith: This is also called the saving faith. This faith cometh by hearing the Word of God and confessing Jesus as the Lord and Saviour. “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) All who call upon the Lord will be saved. (Romans 10:13) They shall bear fruits of repentance, lips (worship), and of Spirit.
Dead faith: A person is saved by grace, through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 2:8) However, a saved person demonstrates God’s love, goodness, and power to the world. If the person does not get engaged in doing good works, his faith is a dead faith according to the Apostle James. (James 2:17) All disciples are expected to witness, share the gospel, pray for the mission, and do good deeds.
Demonic faith: James also reveals that demons know the Scripture, believe, and shudder at the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (James 2:19) But they rebelliously serve Satan. This is an intellectual faith, that gives mental consent to the truth but disallows the truth to transform the inner person. Pharaoh hardened his heart and refused to repent.
Delusional faith: In the last days, there would be many who would say that they did miracles and drove out demons, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. But the Lord will say: “I Know you not.” (Matthew 7:22) They cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven. Their faith is vain or delusional as they did not seek or do the Will of God.
Am I a person of devoted faith?