Digging Deeper: Build Up Your Faith
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…
Acts 2:42a (ESV)
BUILD UP YOUR FAITH
Yesterday we saw how the answer to one simple question changed the lives of countless people. Upon conversion, the Holy Spirit takes up residence in the life of the believer. His role, as we noted yesterday, is not only to convict but also to enlighten. Jesus reminds His disciples that the Holy Spirit will come and “teach them all things” (John 14:26). To grow our faith, we must learn the things that form the foundation of our faith. There is no better place to find these building blocks than in God’s Word.
What is the one source you use to learn how to accomplish a new task? For most people, I’m guessing the answer would be YouTube. I’m not the most mechanically inclined, but I can do a few things around the house or under the hood. When my pickup needed a new starter, I was able to replace it with the help of a detailed video I found on YouTube. I used what I learned not only to get the job done, but also to build on my auto mechanic skills.
I like to equate getting to know Jesus with getting to know a romantic interest. When we meet someone who attracts us, we want to spend time with them, converse with them, learn their character, and ultimately trust them based on their actions and faithfulness. The same should be true of our relationship with Jesus.
Spending time with Jesus can take many forms. The important thing is to take the time—not out of obligation, but out of a desire to get to know Him better. Converse with Jesus in prayer and meditation. Learn God’s character by reading about His Son. We learn most about Jesus by studying the Word of God and listening to or reading the teachings of others. The more you learn about God, the more your faith will grow. You will trust Him, and you will know—unflinchingly—that He is faithful!
In the early days of the church, the believers were new to their faith. Many were Jewish converts who had a foundational knowledge (Old Testament) of God. Others—Gentiles—were coming from a pagan worldview. All new believers had to rely on the teaching of others to grow in their faith (v. 42). The same is true today, whether we are new to the faith or mature.
I have struggled at times with a disconnect between head and heart. I love to read, research, and ponder the breadth and depth of God. The eighteen months I spent earning my Master’s in Theological Studies was a grueling yet highly rewarding experience. I use the knowledge I gained during those studies in various endeavors, including writing what you are currently reading. My struggle occurs when I don’t take what I’ve learned and apply it in life’s various moments. Sometimes I feel like the “man in the mirror” from the book of James (1:22–25)—a “hearer,” and not a “doer.”
The early Christians started out as babes, surviving on milk alone. By learning about the character of God, they were soon able to eat solid food. Eventually, they used their strengthened faith to share the good news with others. They became doers!
Digging Deeper (er):
Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Timothy 3:16
Phil Meade is a father of 3, and grandfather of 5. He has a Masters Degree in Theological Studies from Liberty University, and lives in Acworth. He has led various small groups throughout his more than 20 years attending NS. He retired after 8 years as an Air Force pilot, and 33 years as a Delta pilot.