"So faith comes from hearing the Good News, and people hear the Good News when someone tells them about Christ." (NCV)
What is God saying?
People cannot have faith until they have heard the Good News of Jesus.
What is God saying to us today?
Studies are showing that, in terms of membership, Christianity is shrinking in America. Not only are secular people finding it easier and easier to reject Christ, many people that were raised Christian have walked away from their faith. Many pastors and church leaders are worried, as well we should be, and we wonder why is this happening? While there are a lot of factors at work, not the least of which is the work of the Adversary, it seems that this text shows the root of the problem: people are not hearing the Good News of Jesus! Sure more people than ever might have heard of Jesus, but have they heard about Him in such a way that it is good news? Unfortunately, many Christians have done a poor job of presenting Jesus to others - even those already in our churches - in a way that is attractive, in a way that inspires their faith.
What is God inviting us to do?
Do you wish more people in your life placed their faith in Jesus? God invites us to tell others the Good News of His love, grace, and salvation so that they will hear it and want to put their faith in Him!