In today's spiritual landscape, many Christians struggle with what Jesus called "little faith." This concept appears five times in the Gospels, and each instance reveals important truths about our spiritual journey. While having some faith is infinitely better than having none, Jesus clearly challenges believers to grow beyond their initial faith into something more robust and transformative.
Faith is fundamentally an action, not merely a feeling. As Pastor Carlton Smith eloquently explains in this powerful sermon, "Faith is acting like God is telling the truth, believing like it's so, even when it's not so in order that it might be so, simply because God said so." This definition captures the essence of biblical faith—an active response to God's revelation rather than an emotional state. Many believers feel discouraged because they don't "feel" faithful, yet they continue to obey God's commands. This obedience itself demonstrates faith, regardless of emotional states.
The first instance where Jesus addresses "little faith" relates to anxiety. In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches that little faith is ineffective against worry. We worry about our basic needs—food, clothing, finances—because our faith remains small. Jesus doesn't rebuke his disciples for having no faith but for having faith that's insufficient to overcome anxiety. The antidote Jesus offers is profound: "Seek first the kingdom of God." Our faith grows as we actively engage in kingdom priorities rather than obsessing over our personal needs. This shift in focus from self-preservation to kingdom participation expands our faith and diminishes anxiety.
The second instance appears in Matthew 8 during a storm on the sea. Here, we learn that little faith underestimates Jesus' abilities. The disciples obeyed Jesus by getting into the boat and called on him when trouble came—both actions of faith—yet they still panicked. Their faith, while present, wasn't sufficient to trust Jesus' power over their circumstances. Faith grows as we get to know Jesus more deeply, witnessing his power and character through life's storms. Each challenge becomes an opportunity to see Jesus demonstrate his sovereignty in new ways.
Matthew 14 presents the third instance when Peter walks on water. Surprisingly, what appears to be a bold act of faith (stepping out of the boat) still merits Jesus' "little faith" designation. Why? Because Peter became distracted by the winds and waves, taking his eyes off Jesus. Little faith is easily diverted by circumstances, while mature faith maintains its focus on Christ regardless of surrounding conditions. Faith grows through worship—the very response the disciples had after witnessing Jesus calm the storm—acknowledging Jesus as Lord over every situation.
The fourth instance occurs in Matthew 16 when the disciples misunderstand Jesus' warning about "the leaven of the Pharisees." Jesus rebukes them for forgetting his previous miraculous feeding of thousands. Little faith has a short memory, quickly forgetting God's faithfulness when new challenges arise. Faith grows as we intentionally remember what Jesus has done, which is why practices like communion and Bible study are essential for spiritual growth—they reinforce our memory of God's faithfulness.
Finally, in Matthew 17, the disciples fail to cast out a demon, prompting Jesus to cite their little faith. However, Jesus then states that faith as small as a mustard seed could move mountains. The issue wasn't the smallness of their faith but their lack of perseverance. Some spiritual victories come only through prolonged prayer and fasting. Little faith gives up too soon, while mature faith persists until breakthrough comes. Faith grows through perseverance—staying in the battle even when immediate results aren't visible.
This comprehensive understanding of faith challenges us to grow beyond spiritual infancy. By seeking God's kingdom, knowing Jesus more deeply, worshiping consistently, remembering God's works, and persevering through challenges, our faith will inevitably grow. And as faith grows, anxiety diminishes, trust deepens, focus sharpens, memory strengthens, and persistence increases—transforming our entire spiritual journey from one of "little faith" to one that moves mountains.
