Romans 10:1-21

Automatic

There are several phrases to describe when an athlete is in the zone. “Unconscious.” “Money.” “Automatic.” Being in the zone is being in that place where you can’t miss. It may be a golfer sinking putts from all over the green, or a basketball player hitting shots from anywhere on the court. It may be a hitter in baseball ripping the ball every time at the the plate, or a place kicker in football who splits the uprights every time.

What is not automatic is hearing God’s Word and always having faith. It is good to hear God’s Word. We all have faith. The only question is what we are going to put our faith in. Without God’s Word the choices are not all that great. With God’s Word we have the opportunity to place our faith in the only sure thing. However, having an opportunity and taking an opportunity are not the same thing.

Some teach this passage to mean that if you just listen to the Word over and over that your faith will be built. That is certainly what Paul is saying at all. He is talking about Israel and makes the point that if you have never heard the Gospel you have no way of believing the Gospel. He then goes on to say that Israel did hear the Gospel and they still didn’t believe.

Listen to the Word. Read the Word. Go deep into the Word. The Word is wonderful and gives light and life. Those who hide the Word in their hearts have a protection against sin in their lives. The Word causes even the simple to be wise. But just listening over and over by itself is not the magic formula to make your faith to grow.

You must believe and you must take action. As you begin to walk in the faith that you have your faith will grow because you will see more and more how faithful He is. It is not those who hear who are saved, but those who hear, believe, and call on the name of the Lord.