Two Linchpin Words

Probably the most used and most worn out word in our spiritual vocabulary is the word "faith."  It shows up throughout the Scripture and more specifically it shows up in a section of Romans filled with big powerful words.  Faith may not seem to be a big word if we are counting the number of letters, but if we consider its value and importance to any believer, no word is more powerful.  In Romans 3:22 the Word says, "the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ..."     

When it comes to the dynamics of our life with Christ, it is one of two words which might be considered linchpin words.  The first word with linchpin qualities is grace.  Grace is the beginning point of any relationship with Christ.  A relationship of spiritual intimacy with God is possible only because God has acted to initiate such a relationship.  It is not something we can do.  All we can do is respond to His act of grace.  

And so, we come to the second of the two linchpin words which is faith.  Faith speaks of our response to what God has done for us.  It is not our faith that is essential for the relationship.  What is essential is grace.  But, still faith is the means by which God has designed for us to enter into life with Him through Christ.  It is as Paul wrote in another place, "For by grace you have been saved through faith."  (Ephesians 2:8)  It is no wonder that this five letter words is such a big powerful word.