“ I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge—” (1 Corinthians 1:4-5)
God's 'New Year Resolution'
Introduction
One definition of “resolution” is “a firm decision to do something”. With us, a resolution is akin to a wish or desire. With God is it a decree! God saved you with a purpose, goal and objective in mind – to conform you to the image of His Son, Jesus (Rom 8:29).
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, (Rom 8:29).
How does God accomplish His resolutions? Three big words:
REGENERATION – to be born again; a sovereign work of God’s grace by His Holy Spirit breathing spiritual life into your soul (Jn 6:63; Eph 2:5: Jas 1:18; 1Pet 1:3).
JUSTIFICATION – to be forgiven of our sins; to have a right standing with God by means of faith in the finished work of Christ (Rom 5:1).
SANCTIFICATION – to be made holy; to become like Jesus in thoughts, words and actions (being “conformed to the image of His Son”, Rom 8:29).
Regeneration and justification are immediate, sovereign works of God. Sanctification is a progressive, cooperative experience that flows from the presence and power of the indwelling Holy Spirit (Phil 1:12-13). Christlikeness is both a journey and a destination!
Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (Phil 2:12b-13)
How does God intend for us to “work out our salvation”, to cooperate with Him in our journey to Christlikneness?
Pursue . . . the [holiness], without which no one will see the Lord (Heb 12:14).
Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness (1Tim 4:7b).
God uses three primary catalysts for conforming us to Christ:
- People (Prov 27:17)
- Circumstances (Rom 8:28)
- Spiritual Disciplines (all Scripture urging us to godliness)
Conclusion: Discipline without direction is drudgery. The only road to Christian maturity and godliness passes through the Spiritual Disciplines. When the beauty of Christ is the goal of the Disciplines, they become, not drudgery, but delight!