Genuine faith is not merely acknowledging the historical facts about Christ. Obviously no one can be a believer while denying Christ's incarnation, obedience, death, resurrection, ascension and exaltation, but recognizing the authenticity of those things does not constitute faith. Neither is faith the recognition of Bible doctrine. It is possible to be thoroughly acquainted with the truths of Scripture and yet be a stranger to Him Who is the full embodiment of Truth.
Bible faith is a grace wrought in the heart by the Spirit of power whereby the sinner acknowledges that he has no righteousness, strength or goodness and he is enabled to look to Christ, fleeing to Him Who is the Son of God as his only Savior from sin. True faith rests in Him for salvation, and casts itself upon Christ. Somebody said that faith is – forsaking all, I trust Him. He who has true faith ceases to look anywhere else for salvation; he relies upon Christ only for the remission of sins and for a righteousness to justify him before a holy God. I like the way the Amplified expresses belief. The Master said, "And he who believes on – has faith in, clings to, relies on – the Son has (now possesses) eternal life. But whoever disobeys – is unbelieving toward, refuses to trust in, disregards, is not subject to – the Son will never see (experience) life. But instead the wrath of God abides on him – God's displeasure remains on him; His indignation hangs over him continually" (John 3:36).