Read RP Testimony chapter 14 →
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1. The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts; and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word: by which also, and by the administration of the sacraments, and prayer, it is increased and strengthened.
Scripture proofs: Heb. 10:39; 2 Cor. 4:13; Eph. 1:17-19; Eph. 2:8; Rom. 10:14, 17; 1 Pet. 2:2; Acts 20:32; Rom. 4:11; Luke 17:5; Rom. 1:16-17.
2. By this faith, a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed in the Word, for the authority of God Himself speaking therein; and acteth differently upon that which each particular passage thereof containeth; yielding obedience to the commands, trembling at the threatenings, and embracing the promises of God for this life, and that which is to come. But the principal acts of saving faith are accepting, receiving, and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant of grace.
Scripture proofs: John 4:42; 1 Thess. 2:13; 1 John 5:10; Acts 24:14; Rom. 16:26; Isa. 66:2; Heb. 11:13; 1 Tim. 4:8; John 1:12; Acts 16: 31; Gal. 2:20; Acts 15:11.
3. This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong; may be often and many ways assailed, and weakened, but gets the victory; growing up in many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ, who is both the author and finisher of our faith.
Scripture proofs: Heb. 5:13-14; Rom. 4:19-20; Matt. 6:30; Matt. 8:10; Luke 22:31-32; Eph. 6:16; 1 John 5:4-5; Heb. 6:11-12; Heb. 10:22; Col. 2:2; Heb. 12:2.
Words to know
- Saving faith
- Receiving and resting on Jesus Christ for salvation, rather than merely agreeing with facts about him.
- Sacraments
- Baptism and the Lord’s Supper: visible signs and seals Christ gave his church.
WCF 14.1 · God gives and strengthens faith
The Spirit gives God’s chosen people saving faith, ordinarily through hearing his Word. He also strengthens that faith through the Word, the sacraments, and prayer. These are ordinary gifts God uses; we should make use of them.
Hebrews 10:39; 2 Corinthians 4:13; Ephesians 1:17-19.
What ordinary gifts does God use to strengthen faith?
WCF 14.2 · Trusting and resting in Christ
Faith believes Scripture because God speaks in it. It responds to commands with obedience, warnings with serious attention, and promises with trust. Above all, saving faith receives and rests on Christ alone for acceptance with God, growth in holiness, and eternal life. It relies on his covenant grace.
John 4:42; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 John 5:10.
What is the difference between knowing a promise and trusting its giver?
WCF 14.3 · Weak faith can grow
Faith can be weak or strong. It may be attacked and shaken, but God brings it through the struggle. Many believers grow into fuller assurance through Christ. He begins their faith and brings it to completion. The strength of our Savior matters more than boasting about our own strength.
Hebrews 5:13-14; Romans 4:19-20; Matthew 6:30.
Where should someone with weak faith look for help?
Source: The Constitution of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, updated 2026, A-44, A-45.