If you were asked to discuss the subject of faith, what types of things would you talk about? In many religious discussions, it’s common for the subject of faith to be boiled down to “belief.” It’s also common to see faith and obedience presented as opponents. But listen to Acts 24:24-25:
“…When Felix came with his wife Drusilla…he sent for Paul and listened to him on the subject of faith in Christ Jesus. Now as he spoke about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became afraid…”[1]
When Paul discussed the faith in Jesus, he preached about righteousness, self-control, and God’s judgment. Paul didn’t boil faith down to mental belief, nor did he separate faith and obedience, and neither should we. If we want genuine faith—a faith that is ready for judgment—then we need a faith that induces righteous and self-controlled living—in other words, faith that moves us to obey Jesus as Lord.
[1] CSB