Bible Word Studies Series
Original Language
Language: Greek
Word: Pistis (πίστις)
Pronunciation: PIS-tis
Basic Meaning: Trust, belief, confidence, reliance upon.
Key Scripture
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
— Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)
Biblical Meaning
The word pistis, translated as “faith,” refers to complete trust and confidence in God. In Scripture, faith is not merely intellectual agreement, but a personal reliance upon God and His promises. It involves believing what God has said and trusting Him to fulfill it.
Faith is central to salvation. The Bible teaches that salvation is received through faith in Jesus Christ, not through works or human effort. True faith places full confidence in Christ’s finished work on the cross.
Where This Word Appears
- Hebrews 11:1 — “Faith is the substance of things hoped for.”
- Ephesians 2:8 — “For by grace are ye saved through faith.”
- Romans 10:17 — “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
Spiritual Insight
Faith connects the believer to God’s promises. It is the means by which salvation is received and the foundation for the Christian life. Faith does not depend on visible evidence, but on the truth of God’s Word.
As believers grow in their understanding of Scripture, their faith is strengthened. The more we know God, the more we learn to trust Him.
Application
Understanding faith encourages believers to trust God in every area of life. Whether facing uncertainty, difficulty, or important decisions, faith calls us to rely on God’s wisdom rather than our own understanding.
Faith also grows through time spent in God’s Word. As believers hear and apply Scripture, their confidence in God increases.
Each day is an opportunity to walk by faith, trusting that God is faithful to His promises.