16 July 2010

The Gospel does not produce treason

A great answer to the question "If God is the sole Author and Perfecter of faith, if salvation is truly by grace, doesn't that mean, then, we can live however we chose?" The answer: "yes we can" and we, if truly regenerated, will chose to live for his honor.

Is Christ your Prince? This calls for your loyal and faithful service to Christ - who has saved you from Satan's bondage. He has broken Satan's power over you and is able to defend you from his wrath. In a word, who has a right over you besides Christ?
...
He is not a good subject who only seeks what he can get out of his prince, but never thinks what service he can render. He is not a true Christian whose thoughts dwell more on his own happiness than on the honour of his God. Paul was willing to suffer for the furtherance of the gospel, and to wait for his reward later. This makes life worth living, to serve God as a proof of our gratitude for his redeeming love. O Christian, since he has rescued us out of the power of darkness and translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son, lose not time; what you desire to do for God, do it quickly! Work zealously! If you have your new Prince's sword in your hand, be sure to use it and take heed how you use it, that, when you give an account before God, your sheath will bot be found rusty through sloth and cowardice. Be faithful, attend to your work and labour, for you are his ambassador and shall see his face with joy.