That he takes refuge with Christ and His righteousness, and builds thereon with the confidence of his whole heart.
213. Can only a repentant sinner have this faith in Christ?
Yes; the faith which lays hold of Christ and His righteousness, can be wrought in that heart only which bitterly feels the pain and misery of living in sin.
Matt. 9:12. They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.
214. Is the true and living faith always and in all persons equally strong?
No; it is often very weak and scarcely able to avail itself of the grace of God.
Mark 9:24. Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.
215. Whereby may we know whether this weak faith is true and living?
The true and living faith is known by an earnest hatred of sin, and an eager longing for grace.
216. Does God accept this weak faith?