The Christian Doctrine of Faith

by James Hastings

Publisher:

T&T Clark

, 1919

Overview

Hastings brings together both the doctrine and practice of faith in this work. He recognizes the necessity as well as the difficulty of faith for Christians. He studies different topics such as range, faith in God, faith in humanity, degrees of faith, and faith in Christ as savior. Hastings offers practical guides and examples for pastors and those exploring the nature of faith.

Key Features

• Thorough exploration of the Christian doctrine of faith
• Practical and accurate treatment of Scripture
• Includes bibliographies, examples, and detailed table of contents

Contents

Top Highlights

“The second axiom is that the doctrine of Faith cannot be set forth so persuasively as to compel one to practise it. Again there must remain the liberty of choice.” (Page 4)

“The first is that neither Faith nor any other Christian doctrine can be explained in such a way as to compel one to believe it. There must always remain some margin of mystery. And rightly. What value would doctrine have for life and conduct if it left no opportunity for choice, if there were no element of venture in it?” (Page 4)

“And friendship is the note of faith; faith in God is friendship with God. Faith is the meeting, the mingling, of spirit with spirit, when the soul touches God, and, touching Him, knows Him and believes.” (Page 5)

“The man who has faith in himself, if he is a good man, will resolutely put away all mean and little ways of self-indulgence; he will not be always rewarding himself for everything he does; he will be truthful and, outspoken, since falsehood and dissimulation are the refuge of men who are uncertain or ashamed of themselves: and he will lift his life and thoughts above all that may degrade or hinder or enfeeble him. Even a little faith in himself can wonderfully raise and strengthen a man: even as there is no more hopeless temper than to have mean or base or grumbling thoughts about that which God has made us and given us.” (Page 35)

“Faith is more than important, it is necessary. It is necessary both in temporal things and in the things of the Spirit” (Page 15)

Product Details

• Title: The Doctrine of Faith
• Author: James Hastings
• Publisher: T & T Clark
• Publication Date: 1919
• Pages: 455

About James Hastings

James Hastings (1852–1922) was a Scottish Presbyterian minister and theologian and the editor of many biblical works. He studied at the University of Aberdeen and the Free Church Divinity College. In 1884, he was ordained a Free Church minister. Born in Huntly, Aberdeenshire, he studied the classics at the University of Aberdeen and attended the Free Church Divinity College in Aberdeen. He was the founder and editor of the Expository Times.