Sunday, May 1, 2016

Practical Atheism



Hebrews 11:6
When we are forced to our knees it is reasonable to reach out for God. But is faith a grace gift provided only for times of desperation or is there a larger purpose of faith in our lives as believers?  Faith is more than an antidote for fear or worry.  It is the source of our hope, peace, direction and salvation. 
Faith is the means God uses to transport His grace into our lives.  Ephesians 2:8-9
People who have a God but ignore Him in the daily living of their lives can be termed “Practical Atheists.”
Faith Drives Behavior
The Christian world view is theistic and sees all truth and circumstance as part of a Divine order. 
A Christian not only acts in faith, but also prays in faith.
Biblical Examples of Living in Faith
Mary the Mother of Jesus - Luke 1:45
Paul on Ship at Risk -  Acts 27:25
Abraham - Romans 4:20–21
Sarah - Hebrews 11:11
Noah - Hebrews 11:7–12
Faithlessness Affects Behavior
A practical atheist talks about faith, but never really exercises it.
Practical atheism dismisses the notion of the authority of God.  It is not an outright denial of God; it is more of a subtle disregard for God.  Jeremiah 2:32  
Faith Pleases God
  • Faith brings rewards.  Hebrews 11:6
  • Faith is the righteousness of the believer.  Genesis 15:6 
Faith is a relationship not a creed or a tradition.
  • Faith is needed for salvation.  Romans 3:28  
  • Faith brings peace with God.  Romans 5:1  
We are inwardly fashioned for faith.
Worry is one of the greatest signs of Practical Atheism. 
Intellectual belief does not produce the rewards of active faith.
Worry or anxiety is literally a "dividing of the mind".

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