"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1) The writer of the letter to the Hebrews provides us with a definition of faith that is both profound and concise. He goes on to give numerous examples of faith, including that of Abel, Noah, Abraham, and Moses. These examples of faith lead to the following conclusion: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverence the race that was set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith..." (Hebrews 12:1-2)
This begs the question: Is faith alone indeed sufficient for us to obtain God's promise? Is faith sufficient for us to receive the gift of His Spirit and, ultimately, to inherit His Kingdom? Can faith really defeat sin and, on the Last Day, overcome death? This is, of course, one of the more enduring arguments among Christians and one of the more persistent doubts even among those who say "yes" to these questions.
Nevertheless, the Word of God answers our questions and doubts with simplicity and clarity: "According to your faith let it be done to you." (Matthew 9:29) These are the words of the incarnate Word of God Himself. Jesus spoke these words to two blind men who had begged for healing. Just before, Jesus had asked them if they believed that he was able to able to open their eyes. Their response is a clear confession of faith: "Yes, Lord." (Matthew 9:28)
Jesus' words still stand. Said differently, God's Word still speaks today. It is true: faith alone is sufficient to receive God's promise. We might not understand the promise. When we look around us, we might not see any evidence that the promise will be fulfilled. But God does not ask that we understand or see the promise; He asks that we believe in it.
And so faith, which is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen, receives the promise. In believing, we receive the Spirit as our guarantee (see Ephesians 1:13-14). It was by the power of this same Spirit that God the Father rose His Son Jesus from the dead. And it is by the power of this same Spirit that our sin is overcome and death conquered.
Jesus asked the blind men: "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" (Matthew 9:28) God asks us today: Do you believe that I am able to do this? Let the blind men's words be ours: "Yes, Lord." And let God's words be God's: "According to your faith let it be done to you."
