1 Corinthians 1:30, 31 But of him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made to us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: The Revised New Testament makes a slight but important difference in the renderings. It reads," Who was made unto us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption." This alteration suggests that the wisdom spoken of embraces and. includes the three latter terms; some, however, prefer to regard wisdom as a fourth term, to be joined with the others. As the word may certainly be used to describe a part of Christ's gracious work in us, we may observe Christ's saving work in - I. THE MIND SPHERE. His revelation enlarges knowledge. His teachings give practical guidance. His Spirit leads into all truth. He is the only safe Thought Leader. II. THE RELATIONAL SPHERE. The word "righteousness" here seems to be equivalent to "justification," and to refer to our "standing as before God." Christ is our Righteousness, as our Representative, in whom God sees us, and whose infinite acceptability stands for us. III. THE CHARACTER SPHERE. Christ's righteousness we are under pledge to win and make our own. But over the winning Christ presides. And this his operation in the sphere of character we call sanctification. Here the idea of "making personally holy" is prominent, rather than that of "consecration" or "separation." IV. THE CIRCUMSTANTIAL SPHERE. Conceived as surrounded with an environment of evil influences and temptations, the Church is in the hands of Christ for a daily deliverance and redemption. The full purpose of the Redeemer is not accomplished until we are wholly rescued from self and from sin. This is practically the present work of Christ in every heart and life that is opened and kept open to his gracious operations. - R.T. Parallel Verses KJV: But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: |
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