How do we know that faith comes by hearing the Word of God?

The Scripture emphasizes that faith is not a mere intellectual assent but is birthed through the active hearing of God's Word. Romans 10:17 states, 'So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.' This underscores the necessity of preaching and teaching the Scripture, as it is through the proclamation of the gospel that the Spirit works to create faith in the hearts of listeners. The historic Reformed understanding asserts that true conversion and belief are a result of the Holy Spirit applying the truth of God's Word to an individual’s heart, illuminating their understanding and drawing them to Christ.