In many passages in the Bible, means "believing." Thus in Galatians 3:9, believers are said to be blessed with Abraham, because of his preeminent distinction above all man for steadfast faith in God. This appellation is given in Scripture to true Christians, to indicate not only their saving faith in Christ, but their trustworthy and consistent Christian character, Acts 16:15 1 Corinthians 4:17 Ephesians 6:21 Colossians 4:9 1 Peter 5:12. "A faithful saying" is one that cannot prove false, 1 Timothy 1:15 2 Timothy 2:11.

As a designation of Christians, means full of faith, trustful, and not simply trustworthy (Acts 10:45; 16:1; 2co 6:15; Colossians 1:2; 1 Timothy 4:3,12; 5:16; 6:2; Titus 1:6; Ephesians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 4:17, etc.).

It is used also of God's word or covenant as true and to be trusted (Psalms 119:86,138; Isaiah 25:1; 1 Timothy 1:15; Revelation 21:5; 22:6, etc.).

FA'ITHFUL, a.

1. Firm in adherence to the truth and to the duties of religion.

Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Rev. 2.

2. Firmly adhering to duty; of true fidelity; loyal; true to allegiance; as a faithful subject.

3. constant in the performance of duties or services; exact in attending to commands; as a faithful servant.

4. Observant of compact, treaties, contracts, vows or other engagements; true to one's word. A government should be faithful to its treaties; individuals, to their word.

5. True; exact; in conformity to the letter and spirit; as a faithful execution of a will.

6. True to the marriage covenant; as a faithful wife or husband.

7. Conformable to truth; as a faithful narrative or representation.

8. Constant; not fickle; as a faithful lover or friend.

9. True; worthy of belief. 2Tim. 2.