Theological Sketchbook Luke 17:5-6 And the apostles said to the Lord, Increase our faith.… A prayer adapted to every part of the Christian life. I. CONSIDER THE GENERAL IMPORT OF THE PRAYER: "LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH." 1. Faith has respect to revealed truth as its immediate object; and in the New Testament it more especially relates to Christ as the substance of all the promises. 2. In praying for an increase of this principle, the apostles acknowledged that their faith was weak. 3. In praying for more faith, they also acknowledged their own insufficiency to produce it (Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 2:13). 4. In directing their prayer to Christ, they virtually acknowledge His Divinity. 5. This prayer might in some measure be answered at the time, but was more especially so after our Lord's ascension. II. THE REASONS WHICH RENDER THIS PRAYER SUITABLE TO ALL CHRISTIANS. If we are truly the followers of Christ, yet our faith is weak at best, and needs to be increased, and that for various reasons — 1. On account of its influence in obtaining other spiritual blessings, for they are bestowed according to the measure of faith. 2. Its influences under dark and trying providences — Nothing but faith can sustain us under them (Psalm 97:2). 3. Its influence on the deep mysteries of Divine truth, which faith only can receive and apply. 4. The influence of faith on our life and conduct renders this prayer peculiarly suitable and ira. portant. 5. Our spiritual enjoyments, as they are derived wholly from the promises, are proportioned to the degree of faith. 6. Its importance in the hour of death renders it unspeakably desirable. (Theological Sketchbook.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith. |
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