For starters this expression (“sincere faith”) is used by Paul twice in his correspondence with the young evangelist Timothy. The word “sincere” translates the Greek word, anupokritos. It can be translated literally into English as “non-hypocritical.” Here are both of those verses:
“The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5).
“I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (2 Timothy 1:5).
Some significant insights present themselves from these two readings. “Sincere faith” is one of three things necessary in order for a person to truly love.
Additionally, a “sincere faith” can be spoken of as something that lives in people. Because of Paul’s reference to Timothy’s mother and grandmother, the implicit implication that he does not spell out is that this “sincere faith” can be passed on to succeeding generations.
The questions that all of this raises is vital indeed.
1. Does my love for God and others flow from a “sincere faith?”
2. Does “sincere faith” live in me?
3. Am I gratefully aware of how that “sincere faith” first lived in my parents and grandparents and was passed on to me?
The greatest need of the hour for Christianity in our culture is a “non-hypocritical faith.” Does it live in me so that others can see Jesus? This is such a critical question as we pursue our academic careers and training. In the end, everything we learn is to help us have a more "sincere faith" so we can truly respond to the issues and problems presented in our various settings and cultures.
Another thing to remember is that our research is based on our "sincere faith" that truly wants to see things as they are. This is what truth is all about. Our empirical research is prayerfully pursued with a "sincere faith" that not only wants to see things as they are, but with the "eyes of faith" see things how they can be to the glory of God!
In Christian love, Curtis
1 comment:
Sincere faith is born out of our deep love for God. It is something that is inculcated in us through the living examples of other believers and as we study the Word endeavoring to live in like manner. It is evidenced as we interact with others in daily living not exhibiting duplicitous natures. We read in the Word "let us draw near to God with a sincere faith in full assurance
of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience
and having our bodies washed with pure water." - Hebrews 10:22. This further tells me that sincere faith is essential to drawing closer to God. Therefore it is a must for all believers and not to be trifled with. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that sincere faith does live in me. God be praised!
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