On Sunday November 24 we explored section 6 of Living Faith (Faith). We reflected on the nature of both faith and doubt and how a church can be a community where people can grow deeper in faith, yet also be a safe place for people with struggles, questions and doubts.
This is the eighth in a series on Living Faith, one of the faith statements of the Presbyterian Church. Our guiding scriptures for this week are Psalm 13, Psalm 42 and Mark 9:14-29.
This message refers to recent U.S. research on the phenomenon of ‘deconstruction’ among Christians, former Christians and other people of faith. You can find it here: https://www.barna.com/trends/ex-chris…
For a perspective on what’s happening here in Canada you can go here: https://www.newleafnetwork.ca/blessed…
This message reflects on Living Faith section 6.
Chapter Six – Faith
6.1 Faith
6.1.1 Faith is a gift of God constantly renewed in Word and Sacrament and in the shared life of God’s people. It is trust in God, involves personal repentance of sin, acceptance of Jesus Christ as Saviour, and commitment to him as Lord. It includes assent to the truth of the Gospel. By faith we receive the very life of God into our lives and joyfully discover that God knows, loves, and pardons us.
6.1.2 God brings us to faith in many ways. We may have trusted in God from childhood; or our faith may have come later in life. Faith may come suddenly or only after a struggle to believe. Whatever the spiritual journey we have traveled, God honours our faith, great or small.
6.1.3 Faith is a response to God’s presence in the midst of life. It says “yes” to the God who is here.
6.2 Doubt
6.2.1 We are not always certain that God is with us. At times God calls us to live in this world without experiencing the divine presence, often discerning God’s nearness only as we look back. At other times God seems absent in order that our faith may be tested. Through such struggle we mature in faith. God may also chasten and strengthen us through the hard circumstances of life.
6.2.2 Questioning may be a sign of growth. It may also be disobedience: we must be honest with ourselves.
Since we are to love God with our minds, as well as our hearts, the working through of doubt is part of our growth in faith. The church includes many who struggle with doubt. Jesus accepted the man who prayed: “Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.”
6.2.3 Though the strength of our faith may vary and in many ways be assailed and weakened, yet we may find assurance in Christ through confidence in his word, the sacraments of his church, and the work of his Spirit.
You can find the full text of Living Faith here: https://presbyterian.ca/wp-content/up…
Minister: Rev. John T. Read