What is Faith? The Currency of the Kingdom:

A message to Believers

The Hebrew word for faith is Emunah (אֱמוּנָה). It is derived from the root word aman (אָמַן), which means “to confirm,” “support,” or “be faithful.” Emunah conveys a sense of firmness, steadfastness, and trustworthiness. It is often translated as “faith” or “faithfulness,” but its meaning goes beyond mere belief.

In Hebrew thought, Emunah implies an active, living trust in God. It is not just intellectual assent but a deep reliance on God’s character and promises. This concept of faith is dynamic, involving both belief and action. For example, Emunah is often associated with loyalty and commitment, reflecting a life lived in alignment with God’s will.

The Greek word for faith is pistis (πίστις). It is derived from the verb peithō (πείθω), which means “to persuade” or “to be persuaded.” Pistis conveys the idea of trust, belief, and confidence. In the New Testament, it is often used to describe a conviction or reliance upon God and His promises.

Pistis is not merely intellectual agreement but involves a deep, personal trust and commitment. It is foundational to the Christian life, as it represents the believer’s response to God’s grace and the basis for their relationship with Him.

In the New Testament, the NASB defines faith in Hebrews 11:1 as: “Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen.”

is a profound statement that encapsulates the essence of biblical faith. Let’s break it down.

Certainty of Things Hoped For:

The word “certainty” conveys a strong assurance or confidence. In the original Greek, the term used is hypostasis, which can mean “substance” or “foundation.” This implies that faith is not a vague hope or wishful thinking but a firm foundation upon which our hopes are built.

The “things hoped for” refer to the promises of God—eternal life, redemption, and the fulfillment of His kingdom. Faith acts as the anchor that makes these future realities as tangible and real to the believer as if they were already present.

Proof of Things Not Seen:

The term “proof” (elegchos in Greek) suggests evidence or conviction. Faith provides the believer with an inner conviction of the unseen spiritual realities, such as the existence of God, His love, and His promises.

This aspect of faith bridges the gap between the visible and the invisible. It allows believers to trust in God’s character and His word, even when there is no physical evidence to support it.

Faith as a Way of Life:

Hebrews 11 goes on to illustrate this definition of faith through the lives of biblical figures like Abraham, Moses, and Rahab. These individuals acted on their faith, demonstrating that true faith is not passive but active. It compels action, obedience, and perseverance, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.

Faith and Relationship with God:

Faith is not merely intellectual assent but a relational trust in God. It is the means by which believers connect with God, relying on His promises and His character. This trust transforms how believers live, shaping their decisions and priorities.

Application to Modern Life:

In contemporary terms, this verse challenges us to live with a confident expectation of God’s promises, even when circumstances seem bleak. It encourages believers to trust in God’s unseen hand at work in their lives and the world.

This verse is both a definition and an invitation—to embrace a faith that is steadfast, transformative, and deeply rooted in the reality of God’s promises.

The Bible provides guidance on how to use your faith in various aspects of life. Here are some key scriptures, along with an explanation of each.

Mark 11:22-24

“And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Have faith in God. Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted to him.'”

This passage emphasizes the power of faith in prayer. Jesus teaches that faith, when combined with belief and the absence of doubt, can lead to extraordinary outcomes. It encourages believers to trust in God’s ability to act beyond human limitations.

James 1:6

“But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.”

This verse highlights the importance of unwavering faith when seeking God’s help. Doubt undermines the effectiveness of faith, likening it to instability. It calls for a steadfast trust in God’s promises.

2 Corinthians 5:7

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

This verse teaches believers to rely on spiritual truths rather than visible circumstances. Faith becomes the lens through which we navigate life, trusting in God’s unseen plans and purposes.

Ephesians 6:16

“In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.”

Faith is depicted as a shield in spiritual warfare. It protects believers from doubt, fear, and the attacks of the enemy, enabling them to stand firm in their trust in God.

Hebrews 11:6

“And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for the one who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him.”

This verse underscores the necessity of faith in a relationship with God. It calls for belief in God’s existence and His faithfulness to reward those who diligently seek Him.

Romans 10:17

“So, faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”

This verse explains how faith is cultivated—through exposure to God’s Word. It encourages believers to immerse themselves in Scripture to strengthen their trust in God.

Matthew 17:20

“And He said to them, ‘Because of your meager faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.'”

Jesus uses the mustard seed as a metaphor for the potential of even small faith. It teaches that faith, no matter how small, can lead to significant outcomes when placed in God’s hands.

Galatians 2:20

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”

This verse illustrates how faith transforms a believer’s life. It calls for living in alignment with Christ, trusting in His love and sacrifice as the foundation of one’s identity and actions.

These scriptures collectively provide a roadmap for using faith in prayer, spiritual growth, overcoming challenges, and living a Christ-centered life.

Faith being described as the “currency” of the Kingdom of Heaven is a powerful metaphor. Just as currency facilitates transactions in the physical world, faith is the medium through which spiritual transactions occur in God’s Kingdom. It is through faith that believers receive God’s promises, access His grace, and align themselves with His will. Let’s explore why this is significant and examine scriptures from the NASB that illustrate this concept.

Hebrews 11:6

“And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for the one who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him.”

This verse underscores the foundational role of faith in our relationship with God. Faith is the “currency” that pleases God because it reflects trust in His character and promises. Without faith, it is impossible to engage with God or receive His rewards, making it essential for spiritual life.

Mark 9:23

“But Jesus said to him, ‘If You can?’ All things are possible for the one who believes.”

Here, Jesus highlights the limitless potential of faith. Faith acts as the “currency” that unlocks the power of God in our lives. It is through faith that believers can experience the miraculous and overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Matthew 9:29

“Then He touched their eyes, saying, ‘It shall be done for you according to your faith.'”

This verse illustrates how faith determines the measure of what we receive from God. Just as currency determines the value of what we can purchase, faith determines the extent to which we experience God’s blessings and power.

Romans 5:1-2

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope of the glory of God.”

Faith is the means by which believers access God’s grace. It is the “currency” that justifies us, brings us peace with God, and allows us to stand in His grace. Without faith, these spiritual blessings would remain inaccessible.

James 2:5

“Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters: did God not choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?”

This verse emphasizes that faith, not material wealth, is the true currency in God’s Kingdom. Those who are “rich in faith” are the ones who inherit the promises of God, demonstrating the eternal value of faith.

Ephesians 2:8

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

Salvation itself is a transaction made possible by faith. Faith is the “currency” through which we receive the gift of grace and eternal life. It is not something we earn but something we exercise to accept God’s gift.

Why Comprehending This is Important
Understanding faith as the currency of the Kingdom of Heaven helps believers:

Prioritize Faith:

Just as currency is essential for daily life, faith becomes the central focus of spiritual life.

Trust in God:

It fosters a deeper reliance on God’s promises and character.

Actively Engage:

Faith is not passive; it requires action, obedience, and persistence, much like using currency to make transactions.

Faith is the bridge between the seen and unseen, the temporal and eternal. It is through faith that believers access the fullness of God’s Kingdom.