Revelation 2:10

Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.

As is true with all languages, English is undergoing constant evolution.  The Schoolmaster of America, Noah Webster, gave America its first dictionary and our own form of English.  Since the days of Webster, the English language has continued to evolve.  “Gay” no longer means happy or joyous disposition; its contemporary use is completely unrelated.  In addition to the change in connotations and denotations of terms, we have added many words to the English language since the days of Webster.  He had never heard of a CD or DVD, he had never seen an airplane, or typed on a computer.  In addition to new words, many have fallen or are falling into disuse, among them is the term “faithful.” 

         Some words must be meticulously guarded, because they represent the very best in human experience.  They encapsulate the greatest values known to mankind.  “Faithful” and the terms derived from it are among those terms which distill the most desirable traits of the human heart.  The New Testament idea of “faithfulness” can be encapsulated in three words: ascent; act; and acclaim. 

         First, it means “firmness of faith,” “trust,” or very simply, “believing.”  This idea suggests a trust or confidence in someone or something.  In the New Testament, stress is laid upon believing in Jesus as the Christ or Messiah.  But from this truth radiates many other teachings which often both elevate and illuminate Old Testament truths.  To be faithful or have faith in the New Testament sense means a personal confidence in the person of Jesus Christ and all He taught as contained in the New Testament.  This aspect of “faithfulness” lays stress upon ascent of the mind and acceptance of the will concerning the eternal truths which are taught in God’s Word.