So faith comes from hearing the word of Christ – Romans 10:17

The word “hearing” in this verse is not referring to the physical receiving of sounds through the ears but to the acceptance of a message or report.

Paul is writing to the Jews who were unable to accept God’s message of the Messiah, Jesus. They were still focusing on the law and trying to create their own righteousness, instead of accepting God’s grace and salvation through Jesus.

In this verse, Paul is explaining that in order to call on the Lord one must believe. He then explains that this belief must be based on the report of the gospel message. And you must believe in the message of Christ’s work on the cross.

For by grace you have been saved through faith – Ephesians 2:8-9

Paul explains that God’s gracious salvation is not earned, but given to sinners out of kindness and love. He does this to show people what grace really looks like.

The Bible says that salvation is by grace alone, through faith. However, Paul uses this verse to address a particular problem in the church today: people believe in works rather than faith.