1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that you should abstain from fornication:… I. THE SANCTIFICATION OF MAN IS THE AVOWED OBJECT OF GOD IN ALL THE DISPENSATIONS OF HIS GRACE. 1. The patriarchal (Genesis 30:1). 2. The Mosaic (Exodus 19.; Leviticus 11.). 3. The Christian (Ephesians 5:25-27). II. GOD HAS SHOWN THIS TO BE HIS WILL IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF REVELATION, WHICH OFFERS A SYSTEM OF TRUTHS ADMIRABLY CALCULATED AS AN INSTRUMENT TO EFFECT IT. 1. Man's responsibility. 2. God's perfections. 3. The doctrine, exhibition, and temporal and eternal punishment of sin. 4. The provision and offer of redemption. 5. Holy precepts, to which are attached abundant rewards. III. THE SCRIPTURES REVEAL AND INSTRUCT US HOW TO RECEIVE THE AGENCY OF A DIVINE PERSON, WHOSE OPERATIONS ARE PARTICULARLY DIRECTED TO THIS OBJECT. 1. He is the Author of our regeneration, which is holiness began. 2. He is the Author of the truth, which is the means of holiness, and applies that truth to the heart. 3. He is the Fountain of continual supplies of that grace, growth in which is progressive sanctification. (J. F. Denham.) Parallel Verses KJV: For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:WEB: For this is the will of God: your sanctification, that you abstain from sexual immorality, |
    |