What is the desperate need for faith?

The concept of desperate need for faith is encapsulated in the understanding that without it, one is powerless. The sermon clearly distinguishes faith from mere mental assent; it illustrates faith as a deep longing for Christ's salvation. The cry, 'Lord, increase our faith,' reflects this desperate need, highlighting that self-reliance will lead to spiritual failure. When individuals see their true condition—spiritually sick and in need of healing—they will recognize their desperate need for the divine gift of faith, which leads to Christ and salvation, as seen in Mark 5:28.