Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Context Faith over knowledge refers to the prioritization of belief and trust in God and His promises over human understanding and intellectual reasoning. This concept is rooted in the biblical teaching that faith is essential for a relationship with God and is often contrasted with reliance on human wisdom and knowledge.
Biblical Foundation The Bible emphasizes the importance of faith as a fundamental aspect of the Christian life.
Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This assurance and certainty are not based on empirical evidence or human reasoning but on trust in God's character and promises.
Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs believers to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This passage highlights the necessity of relying on God rather than one's own intellectual capabilities.
Faith and Human Wisdom The Apostle Paul addresses the relationship between faith and human wisdom in
1 Corinthians 1:18-25 . He explains that "the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." Paul contrasts the wisdom of the world with the wisdom of God, asserting that God's wisdom often appears foolish to those who rely solely on human understanding.
In
1 Corinthians 2:5 , Paul further emphasizes that faith should not rest "on men's wisdom, but on God's power." This underscores the idea that true wisdom and understanding come from God and are accessed through faith.
Examples of Faith Over Knowledge Throughout Scripture, there are numerous examples of individuals who demonstrated faith over knowledge. Abraham, for instance, is commended for his faith in God's promises despite the apparent impossibility of those promises being fulfilled.
Romans 4:18-21 describes how Abraham "against all hope, believed in hope" and was "fully persuaded that God was able to do what He had promised."
Similarly, Noah exhibited faith over knowledge when he built the ark in obedience to God's command, despite the lack of evidence for an impending flood.
Hebrews 11:7 states, "By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in godly fear built an ark to save his family."
The Role of Faith in Salvation Faith is central to the Christian doctrine of salvation.
Ephesians 2:8-9 declares, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage highlights that salvation is a result of God's grace received through faith, not through human effort or understanding.
Faith and Knowledge in Harmony While faith is prioritized over knowledge, the Bible does not dismiss the value of knowledge. Instead, it calls for a harmonious relationship between the two.
Colossians 1:9-10 encourages believers to be "filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding," so that they may "walk in a manner worthy of the Lord."
In
2 Peter 1:5-7 , believers are urged to "make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge." This suggests that while faith is foundational, knowledge is a valuable complement that enhances one's spiritual growth and understanding.
Conclusion The biblical concept of faith over knowledge underscores the importance of trusting in God above human reasoning. While knowledge is valuable, it is faith that ultimately connects believers to God and His promises, guiding them in their spiritual journey.