We appointed the Qibla to which thou wast used, only to test those who followed the Messenger from those who would turn on their heels(From the Faith). Indeed it was (A change) momentous, except to those guided by God. And never would God Make your faith of no effect. For God is to all people Most surely full of kindness, Most Merciful. [2:143]
The following verses indicate that the faith of someone may increase
Whenever there cometh down a sura, some of them say: "Which of you has had His faith increased by it?" Yea, those who believe,- their faith is increased and they do rejoice. [9:124]
For, Believers are those who, when God is mentioned, feel a tremor in their hearts, and when they hear His signs rehearsed, find their faith strengthened, and put (all) their trust in their Lord.[8:2]
So, if the faith was already perfect with the initial confession, then there would be no room for any increase.
The hadiths mentioned a number of duties and practices as part of faith. And new duties/practices are added to reflect the various stages of the revelation.
Abu Ubayd (the Sunni Traditionalist) sums up by declaring that "Faith/Iman" consists in intention (niyya), speech and work". Whoever affirms his belief of God and his messenger is only entering the faith and not perfecting it.
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