Definition and Context
Hearing with faith is a concept rooted in the New Testament, emphasizing the act of receiving and responding to the message of the Gospel through faith. It involves not merely the auditory reception of words but an active, faith-filled response to the message of Christ. This concept is central to the Christian experience, highlighting the transformative power of the Gospel when it is received with a heart of faith.

Biblical Foundation
The phrase "hearing with faith" is notably found in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Galatians. In Galatians 3:2, Paul asks, "Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?" . Here, Paul contrasts the works of the law with the faith-filled reception of the Gospel, underscoring that the Holy Spirit is received not through human effort but through faith in the message heard.

The Role of Faith in Hearing
Faith is the essential component that distinguishes mere hearing from hearing with faith. Romans 10:17 states, "Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ" . This passage highlights the process by which faith is birthed and nurtured—through the hearing of Christ's word. The message of the Gospel, when heard with faith, becomes the means by which individuals are drawn into a relationship with God.

Examples in Scripture
Throughout the New Testament, there are numerous examples of individuals who heard the message of Christ and responded with faith. In Acts 2, Peter's sermon at Pentecost led to about three thousand people accepting the message and being baptized (Acts 2:41). Their response exemplifies hearing with faith, as they were "cut to the heart" (Acts 2:37) and acted upon the message they received.

Another example is found in Acts 10, where Cornelius and his household hear Peter's message and receive the Holy Spirit. Acts 10:44-45 describes how "the Holy Spirit came upon all who heard the message" , demonstrating that their hearing was accompanied by faith, resulting in the outpouring of the Spirit.

Theological Implications
Hearing with faith is integral to the doctrine of justification by faith. It underscores the belief that salvation is not achieved through human effort or adherence to the law but through faith in the message of Christ. This principle is foundational to Pauline theology and is a cornerstone of Christian doctrine.

In Galatians 3:5, Paul further elaborates, "Does God lavish His Spirit on you and work miracles among you because you practice the law, or because you hear and believe?" . This rhetorical question reinforces the idea that the miraculous work of God in the believer's life is a result of faith-filled hearing, not legalistic observance.

Practical Application
For believers, hearing with faith involves an openness to the Holy Spirit and a readiness to act upon the truths of Scripture. It calls for a posture of humility and receptivity, where the Word of God is not only heard but also embraced and lived out. This concept encourages Christians to engage with Scripture actively, allowing it to shape their beliefs, actions, and relationship with God.

In summary, hearing with faith is a dynamic and transformative process that lies at the heart of the Christian faith. It is through this faith-filled hearing that believers receive the Spirit, experience God's grace, and are empowered to live out the Gospel in their daily lives.