OUTLINE:
Context Demanded – blog 1/11/20
We live in a world that is starving us of precious context, the one thing we need to truly receive what the author of an emotion intended. Love is a perfect example.
“work out your own salvation with fear and trembling”
“Means to continually work to bring something to fulfillment or completion… refers to a believer’s responsibility for active pursuit of obedience in the process of sanctification.” – MacArthur
Context Demanded – blog 1/11/20
We live in a world that is starving us of precious context, the one thing we need to truly receive what the author of an emotion intended. Love is a perfect example.
J. Vernon McGee
“Your actions speak so loud I can’t hear a word you’re saying.”
Sanctification is a function of obedience.
The Way Grace “Works”
WE are sanctified when we are gracious towards OTHERS.
Mk 3:25
And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.
Ro 16:17-18 [Amplified]
I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep your eyes on those who cause dissensions and create obstacles or introduce temptations [for others] to commit sin, [acting in ways] contrary to the doctrine which you have learned. Turn away from them. For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites and base desires. By smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting [the innocent and the naive].
“the unity of the faith”
This unity reinforces our personal confidence in Jesus Christ as Lord. To be around like-minded believers is a grace gift from above, something we ought never become familiar with!
The Goal of Sanctification
The divine context for the life of a believer is love.
When We’re Obedient, We’re Confident
Anyone or anything that incites us to disobedience ought to be categorically thrown out of our lives! (cp Mk 9:43-48)
Disobedience destroys confidence.
Connecting Disobedience With Insecurity (lack of confidence)
Suppose you’re insecure with your:
– Intelligence: God says you’re smarter than every atheist
– Financial status: God says you don’t NEED any more
– Looks: God sees the beauty in you
– Reputation: God says you matter most to Him
– Faith: God says I gave you the Word to solve that
Love Expressed
Gal 4:16Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?
2Co 12:15I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?