What role does faith play in fulfilling God's promise in John 6:39? The Promise in Focus “Now this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of all that He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day.” (John 6:39) Faith—The God-Designed Connector • Faith is the divinely appointed means that unites us to the Son, making us part of “all that He has given” to Jesus. • It is not a work we perform but the open hand that receives the gift (Ephesians 2:8-9). • By believing, we step under Christ’s protective custody, where He pledges to “lose none.” Initiated by the Father • John 6:37—“Everything the Father gives Me will come to Me.” • John 6:44—“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” • Saving faith begins with the Father’s gracious draw, ensuring that those who believe are already part of the group Jesus will keep. Sustained by the Son • John 10:27-28—“My sheep hear My voice… and no one will snatch them out of My hand.” • 1 Peter 1:5—We are “protected by the power of God through faith.” • Christ continually nourishes faith through His word and Spirit, guaranteeing its endurance. Verified by the Spirit • Romans 8:16—“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” • The Spirit confirms our faith, produces growth (Galatians 5:22-23), and anchors us until resurrection day. Faith’s Persevering Character • Hebrews 10:39—True believers “have faith to preserve their souls.” • Colossians 1:23—We “continue in the faith, established and firm.” • Ongoing trust doesn’t cause the promise; it proves we belong to those Christ will raise. The Final Resurrection—Faith’s Climax • John 6:40—“Everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” • Faith links us to Christ now; His power carries that link into eternity, culminating in bodily resurrection. Practical Takeaways • Rest: Our security rests on Christ’s promise, not our performance. • Respond: Daily trust nurtures assurance and joy (John 15:4-5). • Rejoice: The same faith that began with a simple “yes” to Jesus will end with a shout of victory at the last day. |