The Path to Faith

The path to faith varies from person to person.  While one thing catches your attention, something else is meaningful to another.  In John, chapter one, we have brief accounts of several people being introduced to Jesus.  The chapter lets us see variety in the evidence provided and in what captures attention.  As you read John one, notice how much depends on the testimony of witnesses.  God intends for us to believe and follow Jesus.  Notice these paths to faith.

The preaching by John (and the ancient prophecies he quoted) captured the attention of the priests and Levites as well as others sent by the Pharisees.  By use of prophecy, John was able to answer their questions and silence their objections.  (John 1:19-28).

The path to faith includes the miracles declared in scripture.  When John saw the Holy Spirit descend on Jesus after his baptism, John declared Jesus to be the Lamb and the Son of God.  His testimony of these things becomes a path to faith for others.  (John 1:29-34).

Jesus’ teaching is a vital part of the path to faith.  Before committing to Him, we must hear him out.  “The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.”   “One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew … He first found his own brother … (and said) …We have found the Messiah … And he brought him to Jesus.”    An essential section of the path to faith is hearing the words of Jesus.  (John 1:35-42).

Philip believed and became a follower.  Philip told Nathanael that they had found the one who fulfills all the words of Moses and the prophets.  Nathanael showed his skepticism by saying “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”  Philip’s answer was, “Come and see.”  Each person, sooner or later, must hear and see Jesus for Himself.  After seeing a minor miracle, Nathanael declares to Jesus, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God!  You are the King of Israel.”  (John 1:43-49)

The path to faith is a path that keeps leading us forward.  The destination is not found in one single spot or moment.  Note Jesus’ words to Nathanael:  “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe?  You will see greater things than these.”  (John 1:50).

Great and wonderful things are ahead if we are willing to follow the path to faith.  Remember that, when we follow a new path, we usually can’t see the destination.  We must, however, be sure we trust what we are following.   (John 1:51).