Overview
Steven Furtick’s sermon “Functional Faith” explores the difference between a faith that is theoretical or reserved for special occasions and a faith that is practical, active, and relevant to everyday life. Using the story of Jesus healing a man with a withered hand, Furtick teaches that faith should be functional, applied, and not contingent on outcomes.
The Nature of Functional Faith
- True faith is both comforting and confrontational, leading to both encouragement and necessary change.
- Faith is not merely a feeling or formula but involves living with patience amid mystery and uncertainty.
- The opposite of faith is not doubt, but certainty—faith thrives in the unknown rather than in absolute answers.
- Functional faith requires adaptability and application, much like functional fitness in exercise.
Misplaced or Dysfunctional Faith
- Religious systems and traditions can become dysfunctional when they lose sight of their original restorative purpose.
- Faith is misused when it becomes a means of exclusion or judgment rather than healing and inclusion.
- Compartmentalizing faith as only relevant during crises or special occasions limits its transformative power.
The Objective and Application of Faith
- Faith should have an objective beyond personal gain or convenience.
- Functional faith is meant for daily life, not just for emergencies or religious rituals.
- Like everyday “paper plate” items, faith should be accessible and used regularly.
Faith and Outcomes
- Faith should not be based on desired outcomes; otherwise, it is easily lost when circumstances do not change as hoped.
- Real faith enables believers to praise and trust God despite uncertain or unfavorable outcomes.
- Faith alters one’s outlook and perception, allowing for hope and action regardless of visible results.
Order of Faith: Responding Before Restoration
- Jesus commanded the man with the withered hand to act (“stretch out your hand”) before healing him, illustrating that obedience often precedes breakthrough.
- God seeks to heal the hidden, dysfunctional parts of our lives, not just the visible or socially acceptable ones.
- Faith requires vulnerability, willingness to “stand out,” and action even when results are not yet seen.
Practical Steps and Encouragement
- Functional faith is activated through simple, daily actions rather than grand gestures.
- Application may include acts like reconciliation, punctuality, starting each day with spiritual focus, or trying something previously avoided due to fear or habit.
- Taking even small steps in faith can lead to restoration and growth.
Recommendations / Advice
- Do something this week that you couldn't do without faith, even if it’s a small or simple action.
- Don’t wait for the perfect occasion—make faith part of your everyday routine.
Personal Response and Prayer
- Respond in faith before seeing restoration; act on God’s word with expectation.
- Prayer was offered for those willing to stretch beyond comfort and apply functional faith this week.