Framed by Faith: The Power of Our Words

The Covenant

Bible Passage: Heb 11:1–3, Proverbs 18:21, Proverbs 12:18, Proverbs 15:4, James 3:5–6

Summary: This sermon examines the theme of faith and the transformative power of words, highlighting how our beliefs and expressions shape our reality and affect our relationships.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to be mindful of their faith and the words they speak, reminding them that both can influence their lives and the lives of others positively or negatively. By applying biblical principles to their speech and faith, they can create an environment filled with encouragement rather than negativity.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, and that our words have the capacity to build up or destroy. It also emphasizes the importance of speaking life and truth into our circumstances and relationships.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, Jesus is the ultimate expression of faith and the Word (John 1:14). He enables believers to communicate effectively, affirming that our words can reflect the spirit of Christ and bring life to those around us.

Big Idea: Living by faith, we must be aware that our words can frame our realities—choosing to uplift and inspire rather than to tear down.

Hebrews 11:3 KJV

3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

Hebrews 11:3 AMP

3 By faith we understand that the worlds [during the successive ages] were framed (fashioned, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose) by the word of God, so that what we see was not made out of things which are visible.

Hebrews 11:3 TPT

3 Faith empowers us to see that the universe was created and beautifully coordinated by the power of God’s words! He spoke and the invisible realm gave birth to all that is seen.

Proverbs 18:21 TPT

21 Your words are so powerful that they will kill or give life, and the talkative person will reap the consequences.

Proverbs 12:18 TPT

18 Reckless words are like the thrusts of a sword, cutting remarks meant to stab and to hurt. But the words of the wise soothe and heal.

Proverbs 15:4 TPT

4 When you speak healing words, you offer others fruit from the tree of life. But unhealthy, negative words do nothing but crush their hopes.

James 3:5–6 TPT

5 And so the tongue is a small part of the body yet it carries great power! Just think of how a small flame can set a huge forest ablaze. 6 And the tongue is a fire! It can be compared to the sum total of wickedness and is the most dangerous part of our human body. It corrupts the entire body and is a hellish flame! It releases a fire that can burn throughout the course of human existence.

Proverbs 21:23 TPT

23 Watch your words and be careful what you say, and you’ll be surprised how few troubles you’ll have.

1. Faith Frames Our World

Hebrews 11:1–3 “1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. 3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.”

Faith is described as the foundation of our belief - the very tool through which God framed the world. just as God spoke the universe into existence, our words, shaped by faith, can frame our realities. faith-filled words possess creative power, so speak life as God first declared 'let there be light.'

2. Power of the Tongue

Proverbs 18:21

You could explain that the power of life and death lies in the tongue, underscoring the responsibility and potential impact of our spoken words. Draw attention to the choices we make every day, encouraging people to choose words that bring life and not death, echoing their faith in their speech. This reflection can inspire a commitment to conscientious conversation in alignment with God’s purpose.

3. Words That Wound or Heal

Proverbs 12:18

Perhaps you can illustrate how words can be used carelessly, wounding others like the thrust of a sword, or wisely, promoting healing and encouragement. Provoke thought on past experiences where words have hurt or healed, and encourage using speech wisely, in faith, to mend and foster reconciliation, echoing the healing work Christ calls us to continue in the world.

4. Nurturing with Words

Proverbs 15:4

Maybe suggest that gentle words are like a tree of life, showcasing the nurturing side of communication. Explore how the words we choose can either nourish relationships and communities or deplete them of joy and strength. Prompt the congregation to reflect on their own speech and to seek transformation through the Spirit, speaking with kindness and wisdom.

5. Tongue: A Firesource of Faith

James 3:5–6

Consider focusing on the analogy of the tongue as a small fire capable of causing great devastation. Highlight how our words, without control and faith, can destroy entire communities. Encourage a spirit of vigilance in speech, instructing the audience on seeking the sanctification of the tongue, through Christ, as an act of faith and service to others.