The entire ministry of Christ was a clarion call to mankind to enter into a relationship with God based upon faith. As He did with so many things, Christ ripped away the veil covering the concept of faith toward God revealing a glory under the weight of which the church staggers even to this day.
This matter of faith is so weighty, so magnificent and so awesome that we often wilt in the brilliance of its radiance. The implications of a life of faith are so incredible, that we have a very difficult time comprehending them in their fullness. And yet, these concepts virtually define the Christian life, providing a spiritual litmus test for all believers, indeed, for all mankind.
But through all this, we need remain fully aware that God does not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He does not alter his dealings with mankind like clothing designers cycle new fashions. There are certain concepts and doctrines that are eternal, upon which we are called to build our Christian foundation. Among the most important of these immutable, eternal concepts is the doctrine of faith toward God. (Hebrews 6:1). Faith is vital. It will always be “what God is doing.”
In John, chapter six, the disciples asked Jesus a question:
6:28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
6:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
Jesus walked and talked faith, demonstrating its effectiveness by performing many signs and miracles. He rebuked people for having “little faith” and praised those who demonstrated “great faith”. Faith toward God, and all that it implies, permeated His central message.
Jesus was constantly demonstrating the power of faith to his disciples. And He was constantly exhorting them to become imitators of Him in walking by faith. He encouraged their faith and criticized their lack of it. He taught them of its importance and extolled its virtues. He showed them that “all things are possible to him that believeth” (Mark 9:23).
When the apostles were unable to successfully perform certain miracles, Jesus told them it was because of the unbelief (or lack of faith). He kept faith central in His teaching.