That faith is essential to salvation, every Bible believer understands. True faith enables us to please God (Hebrews 11:6), become His children (Galatians 3:26), and stand before Him justified (Romans 5:1). By God's grace, through faith, we can be saved (Ephesians 2:8).

But all of the above involves true faith. Some kinds of "faith" or "belief" are insufficient: misplaced faith, misdirected faith, disobedient faith. A man may "believe" in idols, or "have faith" in witchcraft, but of course these are wrong kinds of faith. We must develop saving faith.

Consider some kinds of faith:

1. INHERITED FAITH. This is "family religion." There are many who have some religious conviction (either to a lesser or greater degree) that is based solely on what they have been told growing up. Paul had much by way of religious inheritance (Acts 22:1-10; 23:1), but he converted to Christianity. He made a change. His "family religion" was insufficient in light of the truth of the gospel. You see, "inherited religion" may be wrong!

2. INDOCTRINATED FAITH. This usually comes as a result of early training -at home, at church, or by family and friends. Like "inherited faith," the problem with "indoctrinated faith" is that it may not be based on truth; there are many who have "heard" or "been told" many things which are not so. What we have accepted as a result of teaching may be true (2 Timothy 1:3-5) or it may not be (Romans 10:1-3; Acts 26:5-9).

3. QUESTIONING FAITH. This is the stage at which we question and examine the things we have believed to see if they are correct in view of God's revelation (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). Jesus urged the Jews to "search the Scriptures" to learn that they testified of Him (John 5:39). As the word of God is the source of faith (John 20:30-31; Romans 10: 17), it is right to examine any religious practice or teaching to ascertain if it is Bible truth.

4. PERSONAL, SAVING FAITH. This is one's own faith, a personal faith enabling one to become a child of God (John 1:6-12; Galatians 3:26-27). This faith is based upon God's revelation, is founded in personal conviction (Matthew 9:18-22), and is expressed by sincere obedience (James 2:14-26). This faith is precious, hopeful, joyous, and ultimately rewarded (read 1 Peter 1 :3-9). This is the faith that pleases God and will stand at the judgment.

Let us ever live, walk, speak, and act by true faith!