Active Faith

Active faith is a dynamic and living expression of belief in God, characterized by actions that reflect trust and obedience to His Word. It is not merely intellectual assent but involves a commitment that manifests in tangible deeds. The Bible emphasizes that faith without works is dead, as seen in James 2:17 : "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This underscores the necessity of demonstrating faith through actions that align with God's will.

Active faith is exemplified in the lives of biblical figures such as Abraham, who is often referred to as the father of faith. In Genesis 22, Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac at God's command illustrates his profound trust and obedience. Hebrews 11:17-19 commends Abraham's faith, stating, "By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac. He who had received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son, even though God had said to him, 'Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned.' Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death."

Active faith is also evident in the New Testament, where believers are called to live out their faith through love and service. Galatians 5:6 declares, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love." This passage highlights that genuine faith is expressed through acts of love and compassion, reflecting the character of Christ.

Evangelism

Evangelism is the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, aimed at leading others to faith and repentance. It is a central mandate for Christians, rooted in the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20 : "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

The early church exemplified evangelism through the apostles' efforts to spread the Gospel. In Acts 1:8 , Jesus promises the disciples, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This empowerment by the Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to boldly proclaim the message of salvation, leading to the rapid growth of the early church.

Evangelism is not limited to public preaching but includes personal witness and lifestyle. 1 Peter 3:15 instructs believers, "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect." This verse emphasizes the importance of being ready to share one's faith and the hope found in Christ, doing so with humility and respect.

The role of evangelism is to bring the message of reconciliation to a world in need of salvation. 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 states, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men's trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God."

In summary, active faith and evangelism are intertwined aspects of the Christian life, where believers are called to live out their faith through actions and to share the Gospel with others, fulfilling the mission entrusted to them by Christ.