Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which has begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Sanctification, unlike the act of justification, is a work of the Holy Spirit, which will not be completed till the soul is perfected in glory. It is the gradual transformation of the renovated but imperfect heart continued until this corruptible shall put on incorruption. I. THIS WORK CONSISTS in — 1. A gradual purification of our nature. Regeneration is the first act, but by mournful experience Paul knew, and we know, that the remains of depravity are left behind. These it is the work of sanctification to remove. (1) It clarifies the sight of believers, enabling them more distinctly to discern Divine things. (2) It purges the conscience, causing it to pronounce more correctly on the relations of the conduct to the law and to the gospel. (3) It brings to light the lines of the Divine image already engraven on the heart. 2. A correspondent purification of our lives so that our obedience gradually approaches nearer the standard of holiness (Ephesians 2:10). (1) Evil propensities are diminished. (2) The graces produced by regeneration are strengthened: Faith, humility, love. II. THE MOTIVES WHICH SHOULD INDUCE US TO SEEK THIS SANCTIFICATION. 1. God commands it. 2. The love of Christ urges it. 3. We can only be prepared for glory by it. 4. It alone will enable us to glorify God. (J. Foot, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: |
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