Orthodox Forge

Introduction to the Coptic Catechism

Are the gifts of the people of faith the same for everyone?

Q36 · Faith That Works Through Love

The Bible gives us examples of the work of faith in the lives of many, that we may realize that every person is offered that which satisfies his needs (Heb. 11). And as St. Aphrahat said: “For Abel , because of his faith his offering was accepted. And Enoch , because he was well-pleasing through his faith, was removed from death. Noah , because he believed, was preserved from the deluge. Abraham , through his faith, obtained blessing, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Isaac , because he believed, was loved. Jacob , because of his faith, was preserved. Joseph , because of his faith, was tried in the waters of contention, and was delivered from his trial, and his Lord established a witness in him, as David said: — Witness has he established in Joseph (Ps. 81:6). Moses also by his faith performed many wonderful works of power. By his faith he destroyed the Egyptians with ten plagues. Again, by faith he divided the sea, and caused his people to cross over and sank the Egyptians in the midst of it. By faith he cast the wood into the bitter waters and they became sweet. By faith he brought down manna and satisfied his people. By faith he spread out his hands and conquered Amalek, as is written:— His hands continued in faith till the setting of the sun (Ex. 17:12, Syrian Peshitta translation) . Also by faith he went up to Mount Sinai, when he twice fasted for the space of forty days. Again by faith he conquered Sihon and Og, the Kings of the Amorites.”86

The Fathers cited

  • St. Aphrahat

Scripture