Introduction
It has been discussed in our previous Newsletters that faith is not an abstract thing but it is a substance or an evidence that accords us with a personalized reality to the aspirations of hope, a hope that is anchored on nothing else but on Christ Jesus.
Faith in His Name
“Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God” (Acts 3:6-8).
Many people receive their miracles through the powerful name of Jesus Christ. When Christ Jesus brings us deliverance, it is perfect. He adds no trouble with it. He further says that when He sets people free, they are free indeed (Joh 8:36). Peter, in referring to the name of Christ, opines that:
“And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers” (Acts 3:16-17).
Believers have been given the authority to use the name of Christ Jesus to bring freedom to humankind. It is written that signs shall accompany them that believe; for, in His name, they shall cast out devils and shall speak with new tongues (Mar 16:17). Our encouragement is that if we ask anything in His name, He will do it (Joh 14:14). The effect is always positive when the name of Christ Jesus is used by faith.
Salvation by Faith
Faith in the name of Christ Jesus does not only bring healing or miracles but also salvation. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Rom 10:13). It is also believed that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as the people of old (Acts 15:11). It is only by faith in His name that one receives salvation (Joh 20:31). All the prophets testified to this fact that through His name whosoever believes in Him shall receive remission of sins (Acts 10:43). It is not the knowledge of God that gives us salvation but receiving and believing in the knowledge of God through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2Ti 3:15).
Whether a person is a Jew or not, the only sure way to salvation is by faith in Christ Jesus. It is by faith that we inherit the blessings of Abraham and the promise of the Spirit (Gal 3:14). The truth is that “no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith” (Gal 3:11). It is God who shall justify the circumcision (i.e. the Jews) by faith, and uncircumcision (i.e. the Gentiles) through faith (Rom 3:30). So then, faith in Christ is the only qualification to receive salvation.
Conclusion
Having faith in Christ Jesus has the power to bring down the promises and the blessings of God down into our lives. Also, a person is justified before God only by his/her faith in Christ Jesus. Observing the Mosaic Laws or being self-righteous is not a pre-requisite to salvation. It is about grace through faith in Christ Jesus.
Prayer: Our Lord and Savior, we ask for your grace to enlighten us to see your Son, Jesus Christ as our only hope for salvation. Help us to place all our hope in Him. In the name of Jesus Christ. AMEN!