Faith and hope are two important concepts in the Christian life. While related, they are distinct in meaning. Understanding the differences between faith and hope can help Christians gain a deeper appreciation of what Scripture teaches about these vital aspects of our relationship with God.
The Meaning of Faith
The Bible defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1 ESV). Faith involves believing in and relying fully on the promises of God, even though we do not yet see their complete fulfillment. Through faith, we are convinced of spiritual realities that we cannot perceive with our physical senses.
True saving faith involves both knowledge and trust. We must have knowledge of who God is and what He has promised in Scripture. But mere intellectual awareness is not enough. True faith also requires personal trust in God and His promises. We demonstrate faith by entrusting our lives fully to God and obeying His Word.
The Bible makes clear that faith comes from hearing God’s Word (Romans 10:17). As we read and hear the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit works to create faith within us. Faith is not something we can manufacture through our own efforts. It is a gift of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Faith plays a central role in Christianity. We are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). The whole Christian life is to be lived by faith, trusting daily in the promises and provision of God (Galatians 2:20; Hebrews 10:38). Pleasing God requires faith (Hebrews 11:6). Genuine faith will inevitably produce good works, but these works do not earn salvation. We are justified by faith alone, not by works (Romans 3:28; Galatians 2:16).
The Meaning of Hope
Like faith, hope is oriented toward the future. While faith is a confident assurance in unseen realities like God’s promises, hope is a joyful and confident expectation of their fulfillment. Hope is rooted in faith and flows out of faith.
The Bible connects hope with the return of Christ and the resurrection of believers. Titus 2:13 speaks of “waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” And 1 Peter 1:3 says that through Christ’s resurrection we have been “born again to a living hope.” This hope of eternal life and resurrection makes it possible to rejoice even in the midst of earthly trials (Romans 5:2-5, 12:12).
Hope is a major theme in Scripture. We are saved in hope (Romans 8:24). Hope helps to purify us (1 John 3:3). Jesus Christ is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1). We are to be ready to give a reason for the hope within us (1 Peter 3:15). Hope motivates us to persevere in faith and obedience (1 Thessalonians 1:3). It provides an anchor for the soul, keeping us secure amidst life’s storms (Hebrews 6:19).
Hope is grounded in the promises and character of God. Even when we cannot see the fulfillment of God’s promises, we can hope in Him because we know He is faithful. Hope provides joy, peace, and encouragement in times of difficulty and waiting.
The Relationship Between Faith and Hope
Though distinct concepts, faith and hope are closely tied together in Scripture. Hope grows out of genuine faith. When we trust in God’s promises, we gain a joyful and confident expectation of their fulfillment. As Alexander Maclaren said, “Faith is the root; hope is the flower.”
At the same time, hope strengthens faith. When we see God demonstrate His faithfulness time and again, hope provides fuel for continued faith in His promises. As Charles Spurgeon stated, “Hope is faith holding out its hand in the dark.”
Faith focuses on believing that God’s Word is true and trusting in Christ’s finished work. Hope focuses on the future fulfillment of God’s promises. Faith says, “I believe God can do this.” Hope says, “I cannot wait to see God do this!” Faith rests in God’s trustworthy character. Hope anticipates the glorious future God has promised. Faith provides the foundation for hope.
Examples of Faith and Hope
The close connection between faith and hope is evident in the lives of many biblical figures:
- Abraham: When promised a son, Abraham hoped against hope and believed God’s promise (Romans 4:18-21). His faith resulted in joyful expectation.
- Joseph: Sold into slavery, Joseph clung to God’s promises in faith. This led to the confident hope that sustained him in prison (Genesis 37-50).
- Paul: Despite sufferings, Paul had faith God was working all things for good. This produced hope of future glory and transformation (Romans 5:1-5, 8:18-25).
- Early Christians: Faith in Christ gave hope of resurrection and eternal life amidst persecution (1 Corinthians 15:12-19).
In all these examples, faith provided the foundation for vibrant hope. As God demonstrated His faithfulness, hope was strengthened. Biblical faith and hope are integrally connected.
Cultivating Faith and Hope
How can Christians cultivate energetic faith and hope? Consider these suggestions:
- Study Scripture – God’s Word ignites faith and hope within us (Romans 15:4). Immersing ourselves in the promises of God builds our faith in His trustworthy character.
- Pray – Ask God to increase your faith and hope (Mark 9:24). Express your trust in His promises. Praise Him for His faithfulness.
- Obey – Acting in faith and obedience strengthens hope. As we live according to God’s Word, our hope grows.
- Encourage others – Mutually building each other up in faith and hope creates community and perseverance (Romans 1:11-12).
- Remember God’s past faithfulness – Recalling specific examples of God’s proven track record of keeping His promises nourishes faith and hope.
- Look forward expectantly – Maintaining a joyful anticipation of Christ’s return and God’s promises cultivates vibrant hope.
Living by faith and hope, rather than feelings or sight, allows us to thrive even amidst changing circumstances (2 Corinthians 5:7). As this happens, the love and power of Christ is displayed through us (2 Thessalonians 1:3-4).
Faith, Hope, and Love
Interestingly, faith and hope are often linked together with love in Scripture. Paul includes these three together as vital Christian virtues (1 Corinthians 13:13). He prays they would increase and abound in believers (1 Thessalonians 1:3, 3:6, 5:8). The connection highlights that vibrant faith and hope inevitably express themselves through loving actions.
Genuine faith works through love (Galatians 5:6). Hope empowers persevering love in the face of difficulties. Though we can distinguish them, faith, hope and love are inseparable in the Christ-centered life. They mutually strengthen and deepen each other.
Conclusion
Faith and hope are distinct but intimately related aspects of the Christian life. Faith involves trusting the promises of God and relying fully on Christ’s finished work. Hope looks ahead joyfully to the fulfillment of all God’s promises in the future. Faith is the foundation; hope is the outworking. Both are essential for following Jesus. A vibrant, living hope grows out of genuine faith. As we put our faith in God’s trustworthy character, we gain confident expectation that His words will come to pass. This fuels persevering obedience and love amidst changing circumstances. By God’s grace, faith produces hope and leads to love as we journey daily with Christ.