Dig Deeper
In
Philippians 3:12-14 the Apostle Paul continues to challenge the Philippians
based on his own walk with Christ. Paul begins by emphasizing that he himself
has not been perfected, “Not that I have
already attained, or am already perfected…” and is therefore, like his
readers is a work in progress. The same confidence
he expressed toward the Philippians at the beginning of his letter, “He who
began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (1:6),
he has for himself.
By
the phrase “already perfected” Paul is not referring to sinless perfection but
rather means “to carry through, or bring to an end/fulfillment.” Bible teachers
use the term progressive sanctification to refer to the Holy Spirit’s work in
the life of a Christian whereby he or she increasingly becomes more like
Christ. (Positional Sanctification occurs at the moment of conversion and refers
to the Christian’s position in Christ, “found
in Him” Philippians 3:9. Perfect Sanctification, also called glorification
if the completion of Spirit’s work in the Christian upon appearing before Christ.
See 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24.)
What
insights about progressive sanctification in the life of a Christian do the
following Scriptures provide?
Philippians
2:13--
1
Thessalonians 4:3-7--
1
Corinthians 3:9-17--
2 Corinthians
6:17-7:1--
Galatians
5:22-25--
Romans
8:29-30--
Application
Set
aside time this week to sit down undistracted with your Bible and journal.
Evaluate your spiritual progress. Make/keep your plan simple. Track your
progress. Keep your eyes on the prize of the upward call of God in Christ
Jesus.
Memorize This
Philippians
3:14-- I press on toward the goal for the prize of the
upward call of God in Christ Jesus. © NKJV
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