E.W. Kenyon, a prominent figure in the early 20th century faith movement, made significant contributions to the understanding of faith in the Christian doctrine. His teachings have influenced many modern-day Christian thought leaders and have shaped the way believers perceive faith today. Kenyon emphasized the existence of two distinct kinds of faith: the faith that comes from God and the faith that is generated by human effort. This article explores these two kinds of faith, their definitions, their implications for believers, and how they can be applied in everyday life.
Understanding Faith in E.W. Kenyon's Context
Before delving into the two kinds of faith, it is essential to grasp E.W. Kenyon's perspective on faith as a whole. Kenyon believed that faith is a spiritual force that has the power to transform lives. He posited that faith is not merely an intellectual agreement with religious doctrines but a dynamic force rooted in one's relationship with God.
Kenyon’s teachings revolve around the idea that faith activates God's promises and that it is accessible to every believer. He taught that understanding the two kinds of faith is critical for experiencing the fullness of God's blessings.
The First Kind of Faith: God-given Faith
Definition and Characteristics
The first kind of faith Kenyon describes is often referred to as "God-given faith" or "the faith of God." This type of faith is divinely imparted to believers and is characterized by the following:
- Origin: This faith originates from God and is a gift to believers through the Holy Spirit.
- Nature: It is a supernatural force that enables individuals to believe in the promises of God.
- Stability: It provides a firm foundation for believers, allowing them to stand firm in the face of adversity.
- Effectiveness: This faith has the power to produce tangible results in a believer’s life, such as healing, provision, and breakthrough.
Biblical Foundation
Kenyon often referenced scriptures to support his teachings on God-given faith. Key verses include:
- Ephesians 2:8: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.”
- Romans 12:3: “For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.”
These verses illustrate that faith is not a product of human effort but a divine endowment, enabling believers to trust in God’s promises.
Application in Everyday Life
Understanding God-given faith can transform how believers approach challenges and opportunities. Here are some ways to apply this kind of faith:
1. Trusting in God's Promises: Believers can stand on the promises of God, believing that what He has said will come to pass.
2. Praying with Assurance: When praying, believers can do so with confidence, knowing they are operating in a faith that God has given them.
3. Facing Adversity: In times of trouble, God-given faith helps believers remain steadfast and hopeful, trusting in God's provision and timing.
The Second Kind of Faith: Human Faith
Definition and Characteristics
The second kind of faith Kenyon discusses is often referred to as "human faith" or "natural faith." This type of faith is characterized by the following:
- Origin: Unlike God-given faith, human faith arises from a person’s intellect, emotions, and experiences.
- Nature: It is based on logic, reasoning, and past experiences rather than on divine revelation.
- Limitations: Human faith can be fickle and easily swayed by circumstances, emotions, and external influences.
- Conditionality: This faith often relies on visible evidence or past experiences, making it less reliable in uncertain situations.
Biblical Foundation
Kenyon emphasized that while human faith has its place, it should not be the primary source of a believer’s trust in God. Key verses include:
- James 1:6: “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.”
- Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
These verses highlight the importance of unwavering faith in God rather than relying solely on human reasoning.
Application in Everyday Life
Human faith can be beneficial in various aspects of life, yet it is essential to recognize its limitations. Here are some applications of human faith:
1. Setting Goals: Individuals can use human faith to set and pursue realistic goals based on their abilities and experiences.
2. Building Relationships: Trusting others often requires human faith, as it involves relying on their character and past actions.
3. Decision Making: Rational thinking and logical reasoning are often necessary in making informed decisions.
However, it is crucial to balance human faith with God-given faith to ensure a complete reliance on God's promises.
Contrasting the Two Kinds of Faith
Understanding the differences between God-given faith and human faith is fundamental for spiritual growth. Here are some key contrasts:
| Aspect | God-given Faith | Human Faith |
|---------------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|
| Origin | Divine gift from God | Based on human reasoning |
| Stability | Firm and unwavering | Can be shaky and uncertain |
| Effectiveness | Produces supernatural results | Limited to natural circumstances |
| Focus | Centered on God's promises | Focused on personal experiences |
Conclusion
E.W. Kenyon’s exploration of the two kinds of faith offers valuable insights for believers seeking to deepen their relationship with God. God-given faith empowers individuals to trust in God's promises and act with confidence, while human faith serves its purpose in navigating everyday life.
By recognizing the distinctions between these two kinds of faith, believers can cultivate a more profound reliance on God’s power, leading to a transformative Christian experience. Ultimately, embracing both types of faith can lead to a balanced and fruitful life, where the supernatural intersects with the natural, enabling believers to fulfill their God-given destinies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two kinds of faith according to E.W. Kenyon?
E.W. Kenyon distinguishes between two kinds of faith: 'natural faith', which is based on sensory experience and reasoning, and 'spiritual faith', which is based on God's Word and spiritual truths.
How does E.W. Kenyon define spiritual faith?
Spiritual faith, according to Kenyon, is an unwavering trust in God’s promises and His Word, leading to a deep conviction that transcends natural circumstances.
What role does confession play in Kenyon's teachings on faith?
In Kenyon's teachings, confession is vital as it aligns one's spoken words with their faith, reinforcing belief and manifesting spiritual truths in the believer's life.
Can you explain the impact of Kenyon's doctrine of two kinds of faith on modern Christianity?
Kenyon's doctrine has significantly influenced the Word of Faith movement, encouraging believers to exercise spiritual faith as a means to receive healing, prosperity, and other blessings as promised in Scripture.
What is the significance of understanding the difference between natural and spiritual faith?
Understanding the difference allows believers to move beyond limiting circumstances and to tap into a higher level of faith that operates under God's promises, fostering a more profound spiritual life.
How does Kenyon's view of faith relate to the concept of grace?
Kenyon posits that spiritual faith is essential for accessing God's grace, as it enables believers to receive what Christ has already provided through His sacrifice, emphasizing the connection between faith and grace in the Christian experience.
