2. A Hard Look At Our Convictions Hebrews 11:6

3.  “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6)

4. The Ingredients Of Personal Faith  Credence {belief} (Jn. 8:24)  This includes not only the what, but also the why (1 Peter 3:15)  Confidence {trust} (2 Tim. 1:12)  Real trust produces unconditional obedience (Lk. 5:4-5)  Constancy {faithful} (Heb. 3:14)  Right to the end (2 Tim. 4:7-8; Rev. 2:10)

5. What About Traditions?  Some people have a faith that is a little more than tradition (Mk. 7:1-9)  Not really their own  No really conviction in it  This does not mean tradition is ALWAYS wrong or vain (2 Tim. 3:14-15; 2 Thess. 2:15)

6.  Real faith is more than tradition  The difference is not in the CONTENT, but in the QUALITY of our faith  Faith based on tradition will almost always be weak  Real faith stands the test (1 Peter 1:6-7) [Especially when dealing with things like temptation or hardship or judgment]

7. How May We Increase Our Faith?  The apostles saw a need for such increase (Lk. 17:5)  Familiarity and application  Faith through the word (Rom. 10:17)  Welcoming the word in (Col. 3:16a)  Living by faith (Gal. 2:20; 3:11)  This is how we grow/are built up (2 Peter 3:18; Acts 20:32)