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is —

I. THE BASIS OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE. Inasmuch as —

1. By it we have the first testimony of our filial relation to God.

2. It notifies to us all the benefits of the New Testament.

3. By it all that is involved in Christianity is made living and real to us.

II. THE SUSTAINING POWER OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE.

1. As the inward spiritual testimony is our encouragement against defection.

2. As it is an effective solace in the hour of trial.

3. As it is the communion of that Spirit who is the strength of righteousness.

4. As it renders us non-susceptible in the hour of temptation.

III. THE PLEDGE OF THE FUTURE BLESSEDNESS OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE.

1. The fact of such a relation subsisting between God and the soul gives the highest warrant of eternal life. "If children, then heirs," etc.

2. The character of this assurance as the work of the Divine Spirit is a testimony to its possible perpetuity.

3. In this assurance is involved the idea of a pledge — "the earnest of the Spirit" (ver. 11).Learn:

1. To cherish this assurance, especially by cultivating an obedient sensibility to the Holy Spirit's suggestions.

2. To guard against anything that would grieve or quench the Holy Spirit.

(Homiletic Quarterly.)

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KJV: The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

WEB: The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God;