Thanksgiving, in the Christian context, is a profound expression of gratitude towards God for His manifold blessings and acts of deliverance. One of the most significant aspects of thanksgiving is the believer's response to the deliverance from in-dwelling sin through Jesus Christ. This deliverance is a central theme in the New Testament, highlighting the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice and the believer's new life in Him.

Deliverance from In-Dwelling Sin

The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, articulates the struggle with in-dwelling sin and the deliverance available through Jesus Christ. In Romans 7:24-25 , Paul exclaims, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord!" This passage underscores the believer's recognition of their helplessness in overcoming sin by their own strength and the subsequent thanksgiving for the deliverance provided through Christ.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The deliverance from in-dwelling sin is not only a past event but an ongoing process facilitated by the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:1-2 states, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death." The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live according to God's will, breaking the chains of sin and enabling a life of righteousness. This continuous work of the Spirit is a cause for daily thanksgiving, as believers experience freedom and transformation.

The New Identity in Christ

Thanksgiving for deliverance is also rooted in the believer's new identity in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This new identity signifies a break from the past life dominated by sin and the beginning of a life characterized by holiness and obedience to God. The believer's gratitude is expressed in worship, service, and a life that reflects the character of Christ.

The Assurance of Victory

The assurance of victory over sin through Christ is another reason for thanksgiving. 1 Corinthians 15:57 proclaims, "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" This victory is not only a future hope but a present reality, as believers are empowered to overcome sin and live victoriously. Thanksgiving, therefore, becomes an acknowledgment of God's faithfulness and the believer's confidence in His promises.

Expressions of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving for deliverance from in-dwelling sin is expressed in various ways within the Christian life. Prayer and worship are primary avenues through which believers offer their gratitude to God. Colossians 3:16-17 encourages believers to "let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

Additionally, thanksgiving is demonstrated through a life of obedience and service. Romans 12:1 urges believers to "present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship." This sacrificial living is a tangible expression of gratitude for the deliverance and new life received through Christ.

In summary, thanksgiving for deliverance through Christ from in-dwelling sin is a central theme in the Christian faith, reflecting the believer's gratitude for the transformative work of Christ and the ongoing empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This thanksgiving is expressed through prayer, worship, and a life dedicated to serving God and others.Romans 7:23-25
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Entire Sanctification in Patriarchal Times.
... God, and was translated that he should not see ... by the fact that Christ hath offered
one sacrifice ... the Christian priest, is that of testimony and thanksgiving. ...
/.../clark/the theology of holiness/chapter iii entire sanctification in.htm

Some Gospel Truths Opened, According to the Scriptures; Or, the ...
... Consider, 4. That if the devil should be too hard for ... was to be laid aside after
he had offered it up ... this life enjoy eternal life and glory through the Lord ...
/.../the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/some gospel truths opened according.htm

The Pharisee and the Publican
... he wanted substantial ground for his thanksgiving; to wit ... Not of works, lest any
man should boast," saying ... Revelation 14:3, 4. Wherefore deliverance from the ...
/.../bunyan/the pharisee and publican/the pharisee and the publican.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... according as it departed, so return at her deliverance. ... And out of them shall proceed
thanksgiving, and the ... pleased the Father that in him should all fulness ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... things of the Spirit of God when offered, and therefore ... only he wanted substantial
ground for his thanksgiving; to wit ... do it; yea, and suppose he should do it ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm

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