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What Is Faith?

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Faith is an active, Christ-centered trust that transforms belief into repentance, obedience, and service.

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In Latter-day Saint theology, faith is an active, Christ-centered trust that transforms belief into repentance, obedience, and service. It is not passive mental assent or a substitute for knowledge, but a living reliance on Jesus Christ that enables individuals to act on unseen spiritual truths and overcome mortal limitations 12. Faith requires a divine object; it cannot exist in a vacuum or function as self-generated spiritual power 3. Instead, it is the principle of action in all intelligent beings, directing individuals toward righteousness and salvation through trust in the Savior 2.

Faith develops through study, prayer, and pondering of the gospel, growing stronger as individuals engage in covenant-keeping and Christlike service 45. It anchors believers amid uncertainty and adversity, offering spiritual resilience and hope for things not yet seen 63. Far from opposing reason, faith complements it by enabling individuals to accept historical and doctrinal truths that extend beyond immediate human perception 73. Through faithful obedience and reliance on Christ’s atonement, individuals participate in the broader plan of salvation, demonstrating that faith is both a personal conviction and a cosmic principle woven into the fabric of the gospel 73.

Faith as Active Trust in Christ

Faith in the restored gospel is not a passive mental assent or a vague spiritual sentiment; it is an active, Christ-centered trust that compels obedience and righteous conduct. President Dallin H. Oaks warned against the danger of “faith in faith,” which he described as a self-reliant psychological stance rather than a genuine reliance on divine grace 8. True faith must always have a specific object, and that object is Jesus Christ. When individuals place their confidence in Him, they align themselves with the divine will and become participants in His redemptive mission. As Elder David A. Bednar explained, “True faith is focused in and on the Lord Jesus Christ—in Him as the divine and Only Begotten Son of the Father and on Him and the redemptive mission He fulfilled” 9. This focus is essential because faith without a divine object becomes mere optimism or self-help, which cannot produce spiritual fruit.

Because faith is inherently relational and action-oriented, it cannot be separated from works. The Apostle James taught that “faith without works is dead” 10, emphasizing that authentic belief always produces observable results in a person’s life. Elder David A. Bednar reinforced this principle, noting that while “action alone is not faith in the Savior, but acting in accordance with correct principles is a central component of faith” 2. When faith is properly directed toward Christ, it becomes the “principle of action in all intelligent beings,” transforming belief into repentance, obedience, and service 2. In this way, faith does not merely affirm truth—it enacts it.

Ancient and Modern Scriptural Definitions

Ancient and modern scriptural definitions converge on a consistent understanding of faith as both intellectual assent and active trust. The Book of Mormon author Alma clarifies that faith is not perfect knowledge at first, but a hope for unseen truths 11. This perspective aligns with the Book of Mormon’s broader teaching that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen 12. In the New Testament, Paul declares that righteousness is revealed from faith to faith 13. These passages establish faith as the bridge between human limitation and divine reality.

The New Testament further develops this foundation by emphasizing faith as justification before God. Paul writes that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ 14. This principle echoes in the account of Abraham, whose belief in God was counted as righteousness 15. The Book of Mormon reinforces this pattern, noting that men were saved by faith in Christ’s name, and that in faith believing that one shall receive, it shall be done 1. Across these texts, faith is consistently portrayed not as a passive mental exercise, but as a living, trusting relationship with God that produces righteousness and salvation.

Modern Apostles and Prophets on Faith

Modern apostles and prophets frame faith as the vital bridge between human limitation and divine reality, ensuring it remains grounded in the living witness of Christ. President Russell M. Nelson stresses that faith is not a refuge for the weak, but the very power that enables the unlikely to accomplish the impossible 16. He points to the steadfastness of the Apostles, the martyrdom of the Smiths, and the pioneer trail as evidence that faith is an active, courageous force that sustains people through immense trials 16. This power is not self-generated; rather, it flows from trust in Jesus Christ. Elder David A. Bednar explains that faith is “not only the principle of action, but of power also, in all intelligent beings” 2. When we act in faith, we invite the redeeming power of the Atonement into our lives, which strengthens our moral agency and allows us to become agents unto ourselves 2.

At the same time, faith must be directed toward a specific, divine object. Elder Dallin H. Oaks warns against the danger of abstract or self-centered belief, stating plainly that “faith requires an object. It must be faith in something or someone” 17. Without a clear focus on the Lord Jesus Christ, faith becomes ineffective. President James E. Faust reminds us that in a rapidly changing world, faith in Jesus Christ is “indispensable to happiness and eternal salvation” 18. He calls faith a “strong shield to protect us from the fiery arrows of Satan,” emphasizing that its object is not changing trends or personal feelings, but the unchanging gospel of Jesus Christ 18. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin adds that faith is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen,” and that it grows through study, prayer, and pondering of the fulness of the gospel 4. Together, these teachings show that modern leaders view faith as both a source of spiritual power and a steadfast trust in Christ, which anchors believers in their daily lives.

The Evolution of Faith Teaching in the Church

The restoration of the gospel brought a fresh emphasis to faith as the initial principle of the restored gospel 19. From the earliest days, Church leaders emphasized that faith is not a passive mental assent but an active, dynamic force that shapes how individuals perceive reality and interact with God 20. Elder Robert D. Hales explained that faith in Christ is essential to the Savior’s mission and is the first principle of the gospel 21. He further clarified that faith is defined by the Apostle Paul as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” 21. This definition underscores that faith is both a foundation of hope and a conviction regarding unseen spiritual realities. Elder Howard W. Hunter similarly noted that faith makes us confident of what we hope for and convinced of what we do not see, comparing it to scientific confidence in unseen particles 7. The Church’s understanding of faith has thus evolved from early restorative teachings to a more precise doctrinal framework, clarifying its role in both spiritual knowledge and personal transformation 22.

In recent decades, Church leaders have expanded on how faith operates in modern contexts, emphasizing its necessity for navigating uncertainty and embracing divine promises. Elder Russell Ballard described faith in Christ as including a firm belief in Him as the Only Begotten Son of God and the Savior 23. He added that faith involves accepting and applying His Atonement and teachings, trusting His power to keep His promises 23. This reflects a deeper theological precision: faith is not self-generated but is rooted in reliance on Christ’s grace 23. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin echoed this, stating that faith is the assurance of the existence of things not seen, aligning with scriptural definitions 3. These teachings demonstrate how the Church has consistently refined its understanding of faith, moving from foundational restoration principles to a nuanced, Christ-centered doctrine that integrates hope, trust, and spiritual action 73.

Faith in Relation to Other Doctrines

Faith is not an isolated spiritual exercise; it is inextricably linked to the atonement, the plan of salvation, and the very nature of God, forming the connective tissue of LDS doctrine. The plan of salvation is structured around Christ’s atoning work, and faith is the essential conduit through which individuals access that work. Elder David A. Bednar, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught that “Trust and confidence in Christ and a ready reliance on His merits, mercy, and grace lead to hope, through His Atonement, in the Resurrection and eternal life” 24. This reliance is not passive; it is an active, willing acceptance of the grace that the Atonement makes available.

Furthermore, faith aligns the individual with the divine nature of God. Because God is infinite and perfect, human faith is the bridge that allows finite beings to participate in His eternal plan. The principle of faith is foundational to the very operation of the universe, as evidenced by the doctrine that God works according to the faith of His children 25. In this sense, faith is not merely a personal sentiment but a cosmic principle that mirrors the divine order. It connects the individual to the Savior’s power, the Church’s mission, and the ultimate promise of exaltation, demonstrating that faith is woven into the fabric of the gospel itself.

Clarifying Common Misunderstandings

One pervasive misconception is that faith is a passive acceptance of ideas, or worse, a substitute for knowledge in the face of ignorance. This view frames faith as a retreat from reason rather than a response to its limits. Latter-day Saint teaching rejects this dichotomy, insisting that faith and knowledge are complementary. As Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained, “We should not expect to understand everything before we act. That is not faith. As Alma taught, “Faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things.”” 26 This teaching clarifies that faith is not an escape from uncertainty but a deliberate choice to trust God’s promises even when mortal understanding is incomplete. It is a courageous stance against the paralysis of doubt, allowing believers to move forward in obedience while they wait for full revelation.

Another common error is treating faith as a self-generated force, as though the intensity of one’s belief alone can unlock divine power. This misunderstanding reduces faith to positive thinking or emotional fervor, divorcing it from its necessary object. Elder Dallin H. Oaks emphasized that faith must be directed toward God and requires humility, repentance, and service. He taught that true faith involves being humble, cultivating faith, repenting of our sins, serving our fellowmen, and keeping the commandments of God. 27 Without a divine object, faith becomes self-centered and ineffective. As Elder Mark E. Petersen noted, “Faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” 28 Faith without works is faith without Christ, and without Christ, it lacks the redemptive power necessary for salvation.

Faith in Daily Life and Spiritual Growth

Faith in daily life is not merely an internal conviction; it is a practical force that shapes choices, habits, and service. When faith is placed in Jesus Christ, it naturally flows into action, transforming how individuals approach relationships, work, and personal development. Elder Richard G. Scott taught that true faith “is a principle of action and power,” and that it can change “maudlin, common everyday activities to a symphony of joy and happiness” 29. Faith does not wait for perfect understanding before acting; rather, it moves forward with trust, even amid uncertainty. Elder Howard W. Hunter explained that faith serves as a tool for discerning spiritual truths just as it does for understanding natural ones, bridging the gap between what we see and what we know is real 7. In this way, faith becomes a living discipline, continually exercised through prayer, study, and obedience.

As individuals live faith in Christ, they cultivate resilience, humility, and hope. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin emphasized that “faith is not so much something we believe; faith is something we live,” pointing to its embodiment in daily conduct 30. Elder Neil L. Andersen described faith as “the muscle of spiritual knowledge and power,” strengthened through deliberate choice and practice 31. When faith is directed toward Christ, it produces repentance, service, and a willingness to follow commandments even when reasons are not immediately clear. Elder Kevin W. Pearson noted that “willingness is the catalyst of faith,” suggesting that even small, consistent acts of obedience—such as keeping covenants, serving others, and studying scripture—nourish faith over time 5. In this manner, faith grows not in isolation, but through active engagement with the gospel in everyday life.

To move beyond abstract understanding, readers are encouraged to engage with the primary sources that ground LDS teaching on faith. Scripture provides the deepest foundation: Alma’s declaration that “faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things” 11 remains the defining scriptural statement, and reading it alongside Alma 32:26 and Alma 32:34 reveals how faith and knowledge interact in the restored gospel 2032. The Book of Mormon repeatedly calls readers to exercise faith in the redemption of Jesus Christ, inviting them to “look forward with an eye of faith” and anticipate resurrection 33. The Doctrine and Covenants adds a practical dimension, reminding believers that “without faith you can do nothing; therefore ask in faith” 34, framing faith as both the source and the vehicle of divine power.

Official Church manuals and prophetic talks further clarify how faith operates in daily life. Lesson 3 of Preach My Gospel outlines the components of faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing belief in His identity, His Atonement, and His commandments 2522. President James E. Faust taught that faith serves as “our strong shield to protect us from the fiery arrows of Satan” and that values must remain fixed because faith in Christ is indispensable to happiness 18. President Russell M. Nelson stressed that faith is not weakness but the power that enables ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things, citing the apostles, the Smith family, and the pioneers as examples 16. J. Reuben Clark Jr. emphasized that the restored gospel rests on historical facts that require full faith, including the prophetic visions of Joseph Smith and the truth of the Book of Mormon 6. Together, these resources offer a structured path for readers to deepen their understanding of faith through study, prayer, and obedience.

Footnotes

  1. Moroni 7:26. ↩ ↩2

  2. Bednar, David A. (2008-04-01). "Ask in Faith". ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6

  3. Wirthlin, Joseph B. (1996-04-01). "Faith of Our Fathers". ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6

  4. Wirthlin, Joseph B. (1998-10-01). "Cultivating Divine Attributes". ↩ ↩2

  5. Pearson, Kevin W. (2022-10-01). "Are You Still Willing?". ↩ ↩2

  6. Clark, J. Reuben (1938-08-08). "The Charted Course of the Church in Education". ↩ ↩2

  7. Hunter, Howard W. (1974-10-01). "To Know God". ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5

  8. James 2:22. ↩

  9. Bednar, David A. (2018-10-01). "Gather Together in One All Things in Christ". ↩

  10. James 2:18. ↩

  11. Alma 32:21. ↩ ↩2

  12. Hebrews 11:1. ↩

  13. Romans 1:17. ↩

  14. Galatians 2:16. ↩

  15. Romans 4:3. ↩

  16. Nelson, Russell M. (2021-04-01). "Christ Is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains". ↩ ↩2 ↩3

  17. Oaks, Dallin H. (1994-04-01). "“Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ”". ↩

  18. Faust, James E. (2000-04-01). "The Shield of Faith". ↩ ↩2 ↩3

  19. Articles of Faith 1:4. ↩

  20. Alma 32:26. ↩ ↩2

  21. Hales, Robert D. (2004-10-01). "Finding Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ". ↩ ↩2

  22. "Lesson 3 The Gospel of Jesus Christ". The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ↩ ↩2

  23. Ballard, M. Russell (2010-11-07). "Follow the Doctrine and Gospel of Christ". ↩ ↩2 ↩3

  24. Bednar, David A. (2015-04-01). "Therefore They Hushed Their Fears". ↩

  25. "6 How Do I Develop Christlike Attributes?". The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ↩ ↩2

  26. Uchtdorf, Dieter F. (2024-10-01). "Nourish the Roots, and the Branches Will Grow". ↩

  27. Oaks, Dallin H. (1989-04-01). "Alternate Voices". ↩

  28. Petersen, Mark E. (1982-04-01). "“We Believe in Being Honest”". ↩

  29. Scott, Richard G. (2010-10-01). "The Transforming Power of Faith and Character". ↩

  30. Wirthlin, Joseph B. (2002-10-01). "Shall He Find Faith on the Earth?". ↩

  31. Andersen, Neil L. (2015-08-18). "A Compensatory Spiritual Power for the Righteous". ↩

  32. Alma 32:34. ↩

  33. Alma 5:15. ↩

  34. Doctrine and Covenants 8:10. ↩