Today I taught a class on the gospel, the
implications of the gospel, and how to share the gospel with others. In my talk
on the implications of the gospel I talked about our work in sanctification. I
explained that no one becomes Christ-like by accident; it takes effort and
intentionality. But, in no way did I mean that sanctification (becoming
Christ-like—holy) is something we do in our own strength. With that in mind I
felt like I should point out a few passages that lay this out.
John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:8-11
By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
Philippians 2:12b-13
work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Hebrews 13:20-21
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Christian: without Jesus you can do nothing. Sanctification, like justification is by grace alone. But, God's grace provides us with the will, strength, and ability to kill sin and pursue holiness. And God in His infinite goodness has set all this up in such a way that when we do this we will have true joy. The more we walk in glad submission to the Lord the more joyful we will be.
