In this episode of The Normal Christian Life, we continue our series on the theological virtues by exploring faith: what it is, what it isn’t, and why it cannot be reduced to intellectual agreement or apologetics alone.
This conversation unpacks:
Why biblical faith is relational and lived, not merely believedHow faith engages the whole person—mind, heart, will, and actionThe proper role of reason in the life of faithWhy dryness, doubt, and desolation do not mean faith is failingHow God’s hiddenness can actually deepen trustThe importance of community, testimony, and perseveranceDrawing from Scripture (especially Hebrews 11), the saints, and lived experience, we show that faith is not emotional hype or blind guessing—but a conviction that endures even when God feels absent.
“Why doesn’t God feel close anymore?”“Is my faith weak if I don’t feel anything?”“How do I keep believing through suffering or silence?”This episode offers clarity, realism, and hope.
Faith is a gift—and a response—that matures through trust, surrender, and perseverance.
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00:00 Introduction to Theological Virtues
02:17 Understanding Faith: Beyond Intellectual Assent
06:25 Personal Faith Journeys
09:48 Faith and Reason: A Harmonious Relationship
13:12 Experiencing God: Faith and Feelings
23:11 Faith in Action: Living Out Beliefs
30:07 Struggles with Faith and Desolation
31:44 Understanding God's Hiddenness
34:58 The Role of Suffering in Faith
50:35 The Importance of Community in Faith
53:24 Evangelization and Personal Testimonies
58:55 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer