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"Real" faith? Does the Scripture define the difference between "real" faith and "unreal" faith? If I was to broaden my definition of faith to include love, hope, repentance, conversion, and perseverance - well, then I guess I am saved by "faith" alone. However, faith does not include all of these other attributes. They are distinguished from each other in Scripture! Thus, we are NOT saved by faith ALONE. We are saved with combinations of all of the above.

I do believe that faith includes all those things you listed. Therefore, a false faith can be found in the verses you quote. How else does Eph. 2:8-9 make sense? Haven't you said yourself that everything comes from God? That's what I mean. In James, it specifically notes a man who "SAYS" he has faith. Anyone can say that.

Notice how the Bible DISTINGUISHES between faith and love. One CAN have faith, "real" faith, without love. REAL faith to move mountains! Does it get anymore real than that???

What do you think is meant by "moving mountains"? Do you take it literally? Can the Pope move mountains with his real faith? I take it to be a metaphor for doing lots of good deeds. This again describes a false faith. It is worthless. Only real faith from God, which includes love and perseverance, etc. saves.

I do believe that faith includes all those things you listed.

I disagree. They are not the same thing. Faith can lead to doing good deeds, but it is quite obvious that faith does NOT necessarily lead to good deeds. James 2 makes this abundantly clear. Thus, they are two separate attributes. Do you think the Pharisees had faith in God - yet, how much did they love??? No, brother, they aren't the same thing.

How else does Eph. 2:8-9 make sense? Haven't you said yourself that everything comes from God?

Yes, it comes from God - but requires our cooperation for it to take place. God desires that we freely come to Him. Love is not forcing yourself unto another.

In James, it specifically notes a man who "SAYS" he has faith. Anyone can say that

Take note of that. Anyone can say they are of the elect, also.

What do you think is meant by "moving mountains"? Do you take it literally?

No, I take it as a metaphor. But what's the difference? Faith and love are two different things in this passage. It should be quite evident that a person can have LOTS of faith, but have no love. This makes that faith worthless. Can't you see there is an interaction between faith and love? Faith without love is dead. Thus, faith ALONE does not save. I don't see how the Scripture could have made it more clear.

Is faith the only gift God gives us, or does He also gives the ability to love, to repent, and so forth?

Regards