NEWNESS OF LIFE

"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin" (Rom 6:4-6)

Devotion 1 of 11

INTRODUCTION

Throughout religious history, a battle has raged concerning the principal ingredient in Divine acceptance. At this point, it is essential that we have a good understanding of God's eternal purpose. There is no allowance for guesswork here; the matter is too vital. We dare not allow ourselves the privilege of guessing and "stabbing in the dark" when it comes to the work of God, and acceptance by, the Living God.

Reformation?

Some consider REFORMATION the focus, and have therefore devoted themselves to the reformation of individuals and institutions. The great reform movements were an expression of this persuasion. To this day, many remain convinced that this is a viable postulate. Upon experiencing spiritual illumination, many of us set about to reform the environment in which we found ourselves. The truth is that very few, if any, realized any degree of satisfaction in their efforts. This should lead us to question the validity of the reformation principle.

A spark of goodness?

Others, of a more liberal persuasion, consider mankind basically good. To them, the principle thrust is discovering the goodness that is inherent in humanity. These are noted for a high degree of tolerance, as well as an emphasis upon social issues. To them, God wants to make the world a better place to live by resurrecting man's fundamental goodness. Most psychological and sociological emphases are based upon this principle. It should be very apparent that this is not a valid principle. Sin has corrupted human nature. This corruption is so serious that it is written, "that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing . . . " (Rom 7:18).

Our aim

We will establish that God recreates rather than reform. While it is true that there are some comely traits in unregenerate people, they can never be a basis for obtaining Divine approval. We are thankful for noble people, and the thoughtful deeds and words that are expressed through them. But such things are only for this life; they cannot transfer into the next.

What about repentance

It may be thought that repentance is a kind of reformation. In one sense, this may appear to be the case. After all, the individual does change his conduct, and is that not reformation? Repentance, however, has more to do with a renunciation of the old than an appropriation of the new. It is a change of mind that results in a change of life. The admonition is to "repent and believe the Gospel" (Mark 1:15), and "repent and turn to God" (Acts 26:20). Regarding the past, "repent." Concerning the future, "believe the Gospel," and "turn to God." Acceptance conduct must be preceded by both turning from and turning to.

PRAYER POINT: Father, through Jesus Christ, grant me grace to not only turn from what is wrong, but to embrace Your Son and what is good.

-- TOMORROW: A PATTERN THROUGHOUT SCRIPTURE --