What Makes a Faith Pleasing to God?

John MacArthur opens a new series by asking how we can recognize a faith that pleases God. He points to Hebrews 11, where faith is described as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen, and stresses that true faith is rooted in trusting God’s promises rather than in our own efforts.

Faith as a Power Play?

MacArthur warns against the faith movement, which treats faith as a personal power to shape the future. He contrasts this with the biblical view that faith is a God‑given ability to trust the future God has promised. The danger, he says, is that believers who think they can create their own destiny lose the trust that makes faith saving.

Old Testament Heroes as Models of True Faith

He uses Hebrews 11 to highlight figures such as Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Rahab, and Moses, noting that each trusted that God’s promises would come, even when the fulfillment was not yet visible. Their stories illustrate faith as confidence in the unseen future, not as a tool for personal gain.

Why Listen to the Full Episode?

MacArthur’s discussion raises questions about what it means to trust God’s promises and how that trust shapes our lives. The full episode explores these themes in depth and offers practical insight for believers seeking a faith that truly pleases God.