On the Consequences of Faith and Knowledge

Having shown in the preceding lectures that faith is the first principle in revealed religion, that a correct knowledge of God is necessary to its exercise, that His character and unity are consistent, and that faith is perfected through sacrifice, it now becomes necessary to consider the consequences which follow from the exercise of faith and the possession of this knowledge.

For it is by these principles that men are enabled to obtain life and salvation, and without them no man can enter into the presence of God.

It is therefore necessary to understand that eternal life consists in knowing God and in walking according to His will.

Concerning this it is written: “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God.” (John 17:3)

From this it is evident that knowledge of God is not merely intellectual, but is joined with obedience, and is manifested in the life of the believer.

It is also necessary to understand that where faith (emunah) is exercised upon correct principles, it leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to life.

For it is written: “The just shall live by his faith.” (Habakkuk 2:4)

And again: “He that doeth righteousness is righteous.” (1 John 3:7)

From these testimonies it is evident that faith produces righteous action, and that this action is required to obtain the promises of God.

It is likewise necessary to understand that those who exercise faith in God, and walk in His commandments (mitzvot), obtain a relationship with Him that brings peace and assurance.

For it is written: “Great peace have they which love thy law (Torah): and nothing shall offend them.” (Psalm 119:165)

From this it is evident that obedience to God’s instruction produces stability and confidence.

It is also necessary to understand that those who do not exercise faith, nor walk in obedience, cannot obtain these blessings, but remain in a state of uncertainty and separation from God.

For it is written: “The wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest.” (Isaiah 57:20)

From this it is evident that without faith and obedience there is no peace, nor assurance of life.

It is further necessary to understand that those who possess faith and knowledge are able to overcome trials, endure afflictions, and remain steadfast in all circumstances.

For it is written: “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience.” (Romans 5:3)

And again: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation.” (James 1:12)

From these testimonies it is evident that faith gives strength to endure, and that endurance leads to greater assurance.

It is also necessary to understand that those who continue in faith and obedience receive the promises of God, both in this life and in that which is to come.

For it is written: “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)

From this it is evident that the ultimate consequence of faith is life, and the fulfillment of all that God has promised.

It is likewise necessary to understand that those who reject faith, or turn away from obedience, forfeit these blessings and cannot obtain the same inheritance.

For it is written: “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: but if ye refuse… ye shall be devoured.” (Isaiah 1:19–20)

From this it is evident that the consequences of faith and disobedience are clearly set before men, and that each will receive according to his works.

It is also necessary to understand that the Spirit (ruach) of God strengthens those who walk in faith, guiding them into truth and enabling them to continue in obedience.

For it is written: “Thou gavest also thy good Spirit to instruct them.” (Nehemiah 9:20)

And again: “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

From this it is evident that the Spirit operates in harmony with the word (davar) and instruction (Torah) of God, leading men into righteousness.

Therefore, the consequences of faith and knowledge are these: that men come to know God, walk in His commandments, obtain peace, endure trials, and receive the promises of life.

But the consequences of unbelief are these: that men remain in darkness, lack assurance, are overcome by trial, and fail to obtain the blessings which God has prepared.

It is therefore necessary that all who seek after life and salvation should exercise faith, obtain knowledge of God, and continue in obedience, that they may inherit eternal life.

For by these principles the saints in all ages have obtained the favor of God, and without them no man can stand in His presence.