Friday, May 2, 2014

In What Source Do You Boast?


"...because of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, so that, as it is written, 'Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.'" (1 Corinthians 1:29-31, ESV)

Those who are truly evangelical have no difficulty in admitting that our salvation is being in Christ. Those who have experienced salvation rest in the fact that we are in Christ Jesus.

For many however it is difficult to admit that they had nothing to do with the "getting into Christ." Sadly and unfortunately it is deeply in grained in our nature to desire to do something for salvation. 

However if you look closely at verse 29 you will see it states clearly that it is because of God we who are in Christ are in Christ.

God made us alive. God placed us into Christ. God has redeemed us, God has sanctified us, and God has imputed to us the righteousness necessary for salvation. Salvation is all of God.

This is why Paul makes it clear that if and when we choose to "boast" or brag about our redemption, we boast in God. Salvation is of God! Hallelujah! I had nothing to do with it.

Even the gift of faith was given to me by God (Ephesians 2:8-9.) God, through His Holy Spirit gave me spiritual life which in turn did two very necessary things:

  1. Rendered me willing to desire God and His salvation
  2. Enabled me to repent and exercise faith in Christ
Do not boast because you were smart enough to see the benefit of trusting Christ with your eternal soul. Do not boast because you decided to pray a prayer. Do not boast because you found your way to Christ. Nay, boast in God! God is the source of eternal life and God placed you in Christ. 

Boast in God! Let's here it! Someone boast in the Lord for righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

1 comment:

kc bob said...

Not wanting to argue Gregg but if faith is a gift then it is not unreasonable to assume that the Giver's gift must be received by the recipient. Never have viewed a simple yes to the Holy Spirit as something one can brag about. But I do understand that some see it that way.