David Sproule, March 4, 2016

“He who believes in Me has everlasting life” (John 6:47).  “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).  “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).

Believing on Jesus is a central and critical doctrine of the Bible—essential to a relationship with Him….

But, what does it mean to believe in Jesus? ..is it merely talking about a heartfelt, mental assent…?

Scripture often uses the words “believe” and “obey” interchangeably, emphasizing God’s view of faith as an obedient faith.  Highlight John 3:36 in your Bible.  “He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him” (NASB).  Note carefully that “eternal life” is for one who “believes” but “not” for one who does not “obey.”  The words, in God’s dictionary, mean the same thing.  In your margin next to John 3:36, write Hebrews 3:18-19.  “And to whom did He swear that they would not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? So we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief.”  Again, the words are synonymous.

In the margin next to John 3:16, you might write these two references above, and add Hebrews 5:9.  John 3:16 says, “Whoever believes…should…have everlasting life.”  Hebrews 5:9 teaches, “He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.”  Eternal salvation is for those who have an obedient faith.  Believing, as God defines it, includes obeying.

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Related:

Why is apeitheo in John 3:36 translated “not obey” in some versions and “not believe” in others? — Teachers claim that faith and obedience are separate, but God sees things differently • Belief cannot be separated from obedience

Who-Goes-To-Heaven Scriptures — Narrow is the Way | Who are the Children of God? — “There is therefore now *no condemnation* to those who are IN CHRIST Jesus, who don’t WALK according to the flesh, but ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT”