How can we increase our faith like the believers in Acts 5:14? The Pattern in Acts 5:14 “Yet more and more believers were brought to the Lord—crowds of both men and women.” (Acts 5:14) • The Jerusalem church exploded with faith because Christ was exalted, truth was proclaimed, sin was confronted (5:1-11), and the Spirit was free to work. • Their example shows what fuels growing, contagious faith. Fix Your Eyes on Jesus, the Object of Faith • Faith rises or falls on who Jesus is (Hebrews 12:2). • Regularly recall His works and promises (Colossians 1:15-20). • Speak often of His resurrection power; what you talk about, you trust. Immerse Yourself in the Word • “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) Practical steps: – Read large sections of Scripture daily—let narrative reveal God’s track record. – Memorize key promises; quote them aloud when doubt whispers. – Study with others to sharpen understanding (Acts 17:11). Pray Expectantly and Persistently • Jesus said, “Keep asking… keep seeking… keep knocking.” (Luke 11:9-10) • Pray Scripture back to God—His Word fuels confidence (1 John 5:14-15). • When unbelief surfaces, echo the plea of Mark 9:24: “I do believe; help my unbelief!” Obey Promptly—Faith Grows on Action • “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” (John 14:21) • Start with clear commands: forgive, give, serve, witness. • Each act of obedience becomes a stepping-stone to deeper trust (James 2:22). Live in a Faith-Infusing Community • “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship.” (Acts 2:42) • Meet regularly with believers who: – Celebrate answered prayer. – Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness. – Challenge apathy and encourage risk-taking obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). Witness Boldly—Faith Declared Is Faith Multiplied • “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses.” (Acts 1:8) • Telling others what Jesus has done cements conviction in your own heart. • Expect God to confirm the gospel with His power (Mark 16:20). Remove Compromise and Cultivate Holiness • The sudden judgment on Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) purified the church and paved the way for verse 14’s growth. • Regularly repent of known sin; hidden compromise leaks faith (James 4:8). • Replace it with spiritual disciplines—worship, fasting, gratitude. Depend on God’s Strength, Not Your Own • “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) • Admit limitations; invite the Spirit’s enabling (Galatians 5:16). • Celebrate small victories—each one proves God’s sufficiency. Keep an Eternal Perspective • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) • Remember that present trials refine faith “of greater worth than gold” (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Look forward to Christ’s return; future hope fuels present courage (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Putting It All Together 1. Exalt Christ daily. 2. Feed on Scripture. 3. Pray with expectancy. 4. Obey without delay. 5. Walk with faith-filled believers. 6. Speak boldly about Jesus. 7. Pursue holiness. 8. Lean on His strength. 9. Fix your eyes on eternity. Follow this Acts-shaped rhythm, and “more and more believers” will be added—starting with a stronger, deeper you. |
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