Faith is often defined as a rational or empirical decision—such as that of the banker who, after checking salary, net worth, payment history, life insurance, and value of the property to be mortgaged, places “faith” in a customer. Based upon computer models, he believes that the loan will be repaid; and so, by “faith,” he grants a loan.
Israel manifested a similar concept of faith when they were at Kadesh on the border of Israel. They spied out the land to determine whether they should obey God’s word to go up and take the land (see Num. 14). They started where Eve did in Eden: by doubting God’s word.
They observed the fortifications of the passes they had to go through—large boulders poised to be rolled down upon the approaching Israelites; the cities surrounded by high walls; the modern and well-designed armaments; the giants in the land; and the well-trained armies. What “god” in his right mind would ask people to march into such a slaughter! They trusted their own judgment rather than God’s word.
Only Caleb and Joshua returned with a positive report. Yes, they had seen the fortifications and the giants, but their faith was based upon God’s word rather than humanistic worldviews. They warned Israel not to sin and doubt God by rejecting His word.
Hebrews 11 invites us to join the great cloud of witnesses for whom faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen; for Jesus is the author and finisher of their faith (see Heb. 11:1; 12:2). These faithful people of God walk by faith, not by sight. They see afar the city they will soon inhabit.
___________
E.Edward Zinke is senior advisor for the Adventist Review. This article was published April 26, 2012.
