BELIEF

BELIEF – The acceptance of the truths of the gospel. More than a mental assent, belief as used in the NT includes trusting in God from the heart. Such belief results from (1) hearing the Word of God ^{(Rom. 10:17)} and (2) a gift of the Holy Spirit ^{(Eph. 2:8).} Although a Christian is saved by belief in Christ, faith without action (that is, a distinct movement of the will to follow Christ) is hollow and void of the righteousness necessary to salvation ^{(Rom. 5; Matt. 7:21; John 3:16; James 2:14 26).}