Definition and Origin
"Faith Comes by Hearing" is a phrase derived from the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Romans, specifically Romans 10:17, which states, "Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ" (Berean Standard Bible). This passage underscores the importance of the proclamation and reception of the Word of God as the primary means through which faith is cultivated in the believer's heart.

Biblical Context
The context of Romans 10 is Paul's discourse on the righteousness that comes from faith as opposed to the law. Paul emphasizes that salvation is available to all who call upon the name of the Lord (Romans 10:13). He then poses a series of rhetorical questions to illustrate the necessity of preaching: "How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach?" (Romans 10:14). This sequence highlights the critical role of hearing the Word in the process of coming to faith.

Theological Significance
The phrase "Faith Comes by Hearing" encapsulates a fundamental principle of Christian theology: the transformative power of the Word of God. It affirms that faith is not a human-generated virtue but a response to divine revelation. The Word of God, as preached and heard, is the vehicle through which the Holy Spirit works to awaken and nurture faith in individuals. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes the living and active nature of God's Word (Hebrews 4:12).

Practical Implications
For the believer, this principle underscores the importance of regular engagement with Scripture, both personally and corporately. It encourages participation in communal worship, where the Word is proclaimed, and personal study, where the Word is meditated upon. For the church, it highlights the mission of evangelism and discipleship, emphasizing the need to faithfully preach and teach the Scriptures so that others may hear and believe.

Historical and Contemporary Application
Historically, the church has recognized the centrality of Scripture in the life of faith, as evidenced by the Reformation's emphasis on "sola scriptura" (Scripture alone). In contemporary settings, ministries and organizations have adopted the phrase "Faith Comes by Hearing" to emphasize the importance of making the Bible accessible to all people, including through audio formats for those who are illiterate or visually impaired.

Conclusion
The phrase "Faith Comes by Hearing" serves as a reminder of the indispensable role of God's Word in the life of faith. It calls believers to a deeper appreciation of Scripture and a commitment to its proclamation, trusting that through hearing, faith is born and sustained.