(14627,1,'2023-03-21 09:36:28','2023-03-21 09:36:28','We turn, now, to a specific example of a “disproof” where the definition of God is said to contain logically contradictory elements, rendering Him impossible. According to the claim, a perfect God must be virtuous. But virtue, as defined by the ancient Greeks and accepted in “ethical theory,” requires human imperfections. Thus, a perfect and virtuous God cannot exist because human imperfections are incompatible with Divine perfection. The argument is said to be “dialectally powerful” because the conclusion follows “plausible” premises. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nThe editors state in the Introduction that arguments denying the possibility of God “are not about certainty but rather about rational justification.” Ignoring for the moment the unjustified leap from justification to impossibility, we must ask if the premises of the present argument are justified, or even plausible.\r\n\r\nWhat Is the Problem?\r\nBelievers certainly agree with the premises that God is perfect and that a perfect God must be virtuous, if by virtuous the author means holy, good, and righteous. “No one is good except God alone” (Mark 10:18 NAS). “There is no one holy like the LORD” (1 Sam. 2:2 NAS) “The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He” (Deut. 32:4 NAS). “The LORD our God is righteous with respect to all His deeds which He has done” (Dan. 9:14 NAS). But the author has in mind a distinctly “human” and imperfect virtue that requires “overcoming pains and danger,” suffering, and the possibility of being destroyed in attempts to overcome opposition and enemies, things incompatible with a perfect being. Thus, according to the author’s definition of virtue as imperfect, a perfect and virtuous God cannot exist.\r\n\r\nThe essence of the argument states that defining a perfect God as possessing imperfect attributes creates a contradiction, and a God that is both perfect and imperfect cannot exist. But, we might ask, would a believer in God disagree with a logically valid claim that God cannot be both perfect and imperfect? Not in the least.\r\n\r\nWhatever idea of “God” the author claims cannot exist, he has said nothing that indicates the impossibility of the Christian God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. While Scripture reveals God to be perfect and holy, it categorically denies that He possesses defects of any kind, including a human and imperfect virtue. Quite the contrary, God is the source and measure of right and wrong, and subject to no standard beyond Himself. Moreover, as infinite He created and rules over all things and neither “struggles” to overcome opposition, nor faces the prospect that He might be destroyed in the process. According to the author, however, the idea that God is both perfect and virtuous, using the author’s definition of human virtue derived from “ethical theory,” has “become the official theological view.” But no orthodox theologian in the history of the church has ever attributed such a “virtue” to the God of Scripture. Of course, one could create countless contradictions in the definition of God by redefining what He has revealed about His attributes. But such would prove nothing more than people have lively imaginations.\r\n\r\nPerhaps the argument might have been useful in the ancient Greek setting where the “gods” were extensions of depraved people, warts and all. Or maybe it could be re-directed to show that a perfect God cannot logically be an extension of finite and fallen mankind, affirming what Scripture teaches about the difference between God and imperfect humanity. But whatever its merits, it says nothing about the impossibility of God as He has defined Himself in Scripture.\r\n\r\nThe Limits of Smallness\r\nInterestingly, the author admits “that there appear to be epistemological limits about what can be known by human thinkers on the basis of logical reasoning about the nature of the Divine being.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Truer words were never spoken, but inadequately applied in the present case. And even if we should struggle to logically reconcile something that Scripture actually teaches about God, our lack of understanding cannot justly form the final standard of what can and cannot be true of Him. We remain infinitely small by comparison and unable to speak of transcendent realities apart from God’s explanation of such things. Atheists and believers alike, it seems, have trouble admitting our smallness in the face of an infinite God.\r\n<blockquote>Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD, Or as His counselor has informed Him? With whom did He consult and <em>who</em> gave Him understanding? And <em>who</em> taught Him in the path of justice and taught Him knowledge, And informed Him of the way of understanding? Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, And are regarded as a speck of dust on the scales; Behold, He lifts up the islands like fine dust. Even Lebanon is not enough to burn, Nor its beasts enough for a burnt offering. All the nations are as nothing before Him, They are regarded by Him as less than nothing and meaningless (Isa. 40:13-17 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nQuite simply, frail and fallible specks of dust lack the vantage point and understanding to define the infinite God of Scripture out of existence. And if God did not exist, neither would anyone exist to define Him away. May God give great grace that His detractors might cease from suppressing the obvious truth of His existence and turn to Him who gives life everlasting, to Christ, “the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Cor. 1:24 NAS).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> Douglas Walton, “Can an Ancient Argument of Carneades on Cardinal Virtues and Divine Attributes Be Used to Disprove the Existence of God?” in <em>The Impossibility of God</em>, Michael Martin and Ricki Monnier, eds. (Amherst: Prometheus Books, 2003), 38-40.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> Ibid, 42.</p>\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 12): “Definitional Disproofs” (Part B)','','inherit','closed','closed','','13140-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:36:28','2023-03-21 09:36:28','',13140,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14627',0,'revision','',0),(14628,1,'2023-03-21 09:36:33','2023-03-21 09:36:33','In the previous article I introduced <em>The Impossibility of God</em>, a collection of essays arguing that God cannot exist because ideas of God are <em>logically contradictory</em>. Section One includes articles contending that elements in the definition of God are mutually incompatible or contradictory (I will assume biblical definitions of God going forward). In the introduction to these “definitional disproofs” we have the key to analyzing the soundness of every argument in the book.\r\n\r\nAccording to the editors, a “definitional disproof” of God looks like this: <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n<div class=\"\\&quot;indent-content\\&quot;\">\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>If God exists, then the definition of God is self-consistent.</li>\r\n 	<li>The definition of God is not self-consistent.</li>\r\n 	<li>Therefore, God does not and cannot exist.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</div>\r\nIn other words, in the same way a square circle cannot exist, so any idea or concept of God that contains contradictory elements cannot exist. As believers we certainly agree with the first premise that in God are no contradictions. He is perfect in every way and cannot be a mixture of any incompatible attributes or elements. But what about the second premise that the definition of God is not self-consistent? Moreover, does the conclusion necessarily follow, even if atheists believe that definitions of God contain contradictions?\r\n\r\nAssumptions and Limitations\r\nSpecific contradictions alleged by the authors will be addressed in subsequent articles, but for now we ask if the limited perspective of the atheist is sufficient to establish such a claim. Several assumptions lie behind the above argument, including the ever-present belief in the adequacy of the atheist to know transcendent realities. Taking into account our human limitations, perhaps a more accurate rendering of the argument would be as follows:\r\n<div class=\"\\&quot;indent-content\\&quot;\">\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>If God exists, then the definition of God is self-consistent.</li>\r\n 	<li>The definition of a perfect and infinite God who transcends all things is not self-consistent according to the perspective of people so limited they cannot know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look, who do not know what lies beyond the three or four dimensions of our existence and cannot possibly comprehend transcendent realities.</li>\r\n 	<li>Therefore, God cannot exist in or beyond the universe unless the finite understanding of people, from their severely limited perspective, can fully grasp and logically reconcile every element of the definition of God.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</div>\r\nGiven God’s infinite greatness, many things about God are difficult to understand and logically reconcile in our head. But, God’s greatness and our smallness do not justify finite and fallible people making our perspective and understanding the ultimate test of what can exist in and beyond the universe, presuming God can be no higher than what we can logically reconcile in our thoughts. Mystery is both logical and to be expected. If we could fully comprehend God, He would not be God. Or, conversely, if we could fully comprehend God, we would be God. But, “‘My thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the LORD. ‘For <em>as</em> the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isa. 55:8-9 NAS). Thus, we can only know of Him what He has chosen to reveal to us.\r\n\r\nWe do better admitting our smallness before an infinite God, rather than adopting the irrational and unjustified assumption that our limited perspective and reasoning constitute the ultimate standard of reality in and beyond the universe. Perhaps we could offer another argument, as follows:\r\n<div class=\"\\&quot;indent-content\\&quot;\">\r\n<ol>\r\n 	<li>God is Infinite Spirit.</li>\r\n 	<li>Finite people who forget where they put the car keys and have a brain smaller than a soccer ball cannot possibly know that an Infinite Spirit cannot exist or what such a Spirit could or could not do if He did exist.</li>\r\n 	<li>Therefore, every argument claiming that God cannot possibly exist constitutes speculation of no authoritative value in describing realities beyond the substantial limits and deficiencies of human understanding.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</div>\r\nFor instance, how can logic used by limited people explain the nature of infinite spirit, or of God speaking a universe into existence from nothing? Logic is necessary to order our reasoning, but entirely inadequate to prove or disprove transcendent realities, and unable to grant finite people abilities beyond their human limitations. Moreover, to know what is possible and impossible in and beyond reality as we know it requires complete knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond, a simple fact the contributors to <em>The Impossibility of God</em> should consider. Their brilliance notwithstanding, they suffer from the same severe limitations as the rest of us when speaking of things beyond our ability to know apart from God’s explanation in Scripture, the same Scripture that contradicts their assertions.\r\n\r\nA Twist\r\nIronically, no universe, thoughts, or book claiming God is impossible are possible without Him. Indeed, unbelief only exists because God exists.\r\n<blockquote>He Himself gives to all life and breath and all things; and He made from one, every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined <em>their</em> appointed times, and the boundaries of their habitation, that they should seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist (Acts 17:25-28 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nIn the end, God’s existence remains obvious to everyone, and He will have the last word. “Surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever” (Isa. 40:7-8 NAS). Perhaps the authors might consider thanking God for the good gifts they use to deny Him and reassert them for His honor. Eternity is a long time and Christ suffered God’s infinite wrath in our place to pay the penalty for such ingratitude. Thankfully, “He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him” (Heb. 7:25 NAS) “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, <em>be</em> honor and glory forever and ever. Amen” (1 Tim. 1:17 NAS).\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> Michael Martin and Ricki Monnier, eds., <em>The Impossibility of God</em> (Amherst: Prometheus Books, 2003), 17.</p>\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 11): “Definitional Disproofs” (Part A)','','inherit','closed','closed','','13122-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:36:33','2023-03-21 09:36:33','',13122,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14628',0,'revision','',0),(14629,1,'2023-03-21 09:37:09','2023-03-21 09:37:09','','god-is-impossible-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','god-is-impossible-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:37:09','2023-03-21 09:37:09','',13106,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/god-is-impossible-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14630,1,'2023-03-21 09:37:14','2023-03-21 09:37:14','I have an interesting book on my bookshelf entitled, <em>The Impossibility of God</em>, a collection of essays that go beyond claims of the mere improbability of God, arguing that “the weight of the evidence is against God’s actual existence,” and that “the concept of God is <em>logically contradictory</em>.” An impressive and weighty book, it contains “most of the important arguments for the <em>impossibility</em> of God that have been published since 1948.” The editors challenge readers to “think deeply and critically about” the idea of God and ask, is the idea of God beset with “an ocean of contradictions,” or “built upon the very idea that disproves it?”\r\n\r\nThe introduction gives a helpful summary of the types of “<em>disproofs</em>” presented in the book, including 1) “an inconsistency in the definition of God,” 2) the inconsistency of God’s existence with the existence of evil, 3) inconsistency between an attribute of God and biblical doctrines and events, 4) “inconsistency between two or more divine attributes,” and 5) an inconsistency within a single attribute <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> The authors present some impressive arguments and have thought “deeply and critically” about their topics. Moreover, the intellectual prowess displayed in the articles is impressive and humbling, a collection of brilliant essays by brilliant minds.\r\n\r\nAchilles Heel\r\nEvery argument rests on assumptions. If the assumptions are false or unjustified, the most perfect argument built on them will also be false or unjustified. Thus, herein lies the fatal flaw of the many claims made in <em>The Impossibility of God</em>, they stand on significant but faulty assumptions of blind faith. And given the sophistication of the arguments, if these assumptions are accepted or remain unchallenged, the best Christian apologists will have difficulty refuting the assertions of the authors. And worse, those who “defend” the faith by conforming it to the unbelieving culture will not only struggle to answer the attacks, they will affirm unbelief, distort the truth, and be tempted to replace God’s glory with cheap and unbiblical caricatures. Thus, if we are to be adequately prepared to deal with highly sophisticated arguments against faith in Christ and Scripture, we need to easily identify the unjustified and blind faith assumptions on which they stand.\r\n\r\nSome Groundwork\r\nAs a brief introduction to the next several articles, consider these simple questions: 1) Is God limited to the properties of the universe and our limited understanding of logic? A good many arguments against God’s existence assume that God, if He did exist, must be limited in the same way we are limited. But how can our finite perspective, experience, and reasoning determine this? 2) Can time and chance account for the immeasurable design, beauty, and order of life and every indispensable aspect of reality supporting it, including the intellect and reasoning of the authors? Ignoring the absurdity of the idea and its inconsistency with every known principle observed in the universe (i.e., chaos only produces more chaos), how could anyone know such a thing? And lastly, and the most basic question exposing the grand assumption under every atheistic argument, 3) Do atheists possess sufficient knowledge of transcendent realities to speak with authority about them? Can they reduce infinite spirit to calculations on a page or know what lies beyond the universe and the three or four dimensions of their existence? And dare I say it, do any of them know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look? And if the answer to these simple questions is no, what qualifies them to speak of realities infinitely beyond their understanding, the greatest being God Himself?\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nIn the next several articles we will examine the above categories of arguments and focus like a laser on their underlying assumptions. This is not to dismiss the importance of the details, but to prioritize them and demonstrate that regardless of their brilliance, they cannot support claims built on a false foundation. In the end, believers need not be intimidated by long and complex formulas, or by the erudition and number of opponents.\r\n<blockquote>Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not <em>come to</em> know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe (1 Cor. 1:20-21 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nIndeed, “The gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it” (Matt. 7:14 NAS). As we continue the series, may God strengthen your faith and encourage you to share Christ in truth and love, unintimidated by the arguments of small people before an infinite God. “Turn to Me, and be saved, all the ends of the earth; For I am God, and there is no other” (Isa. 45:22 NAS). In the end, nothing else matters.\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> Michael Martin and Ricki Monnier, eds., <em>The Impossibility of God</em> (Amherst: Prometheus Books, 2003), 14.</p>\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 10): “God Is Impossible”','','inherit','closed','closed','','13106-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:37:14','2023-03-21 09:37:14','',13106,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14630',0,'revision','',0),(14631,1,'2023-03-21 09:38:52','2023-03-21 09:38:52','','starting-point-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','starting-point-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:38:52','2023-03-21 09:38:52','',13095,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/starting-point-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14632,1,'2023-03-21 09:38:58','2023-03-21 09:38:58','','pain-and-evil-sick-child-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','pain-and-evil-sick-child-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:38:58','2023-03-21 09:38:58','',13078,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/pain-and-evil-sick-child-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14633,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:00','2023-03-21 09:39:00','In earlier articles we examined the atheists’ assumption that their limited human perspective can speak with authority about ultimate and transcendent realities. We also saw that theological mysteries and difficulties cannot support denials of God’s existence. God is infinite, we are not. Just because we cannot understand something does not make it untrue. Our opinion and experience do not form the ultimate standard of what can be true or possible in and beyond the universe as we know it (and we know very little). We turn now to another important facet of these principles: the assumptions through which we view God and the world form the “starting point” of our thinking. When we view and interpret things we always begin with assumptions about God and the world, the colored lenses through which we view things.\n\nAssumptions and Implications\nAtheists assume they can know that God does not exist, and thereby assume that the Bible is not God’s word, Christ is not God, heaven and hell are imaginary, no ultimate authority exists to define or judge sin, life and the universe formed and organized themselves, et al. In short, if your starting point excludes God, then everything will be interpreted accordingly. For the believer, God forms our most basic assumption. Therefore, He created and sustains us, apart from Him we have and can know nothing, and to Him we owe everything. The Bible is His authoritative revelation of His person and works in history and beyond and is the handbook for living and eternal life in Christ (among many other things).\n\nBelief Determines Interpretation\nA popular misconception affirms that people start with a neutral belief system, objectively look at the world, and then believe or reject God based on the evidence. Reality, however, tells another story. Belief <em>precedes</em> a view of the evidence and determines its interpretation. The starting point determines the end point, or our starting assumptions determine our conclusions. We view and interpret everything according to our most basic assumptions about God and His world. This explains why an atheist can see the stunning design and beauty of life and the universe and deny a Designer. Rejecting God, they see no evidence for Him. Believers view the same world and see God’s genius everywhere. At issue is whose starting assumptions are true?\n\nToo Limited\nWe again ask the question, can the atheist know that their starting point for interpreting the world is true, that God does not exist? Can they possibly know the basis by which they have devised the hypothesis of evolution, deny the evidence for a Designer, and determine right and wrong? As we have seen, the atheist would need to know everything about everything in the universe and beyond to know that God does not exist. Thus, the atheist’s entire enterprise of interpreting and explaining the world stands on the blind-faith assumption of their ability to know ultimate realities. Having started in the wrong place, they end up in the wrong place.\n\nWhen an atheist claims that God cannot exist because… [fill in the blank], we should immediately recognize the unreasonable assumption of their own perspective as sufficient to know what they claim to know. When someone says hell does not exist, that God’s design for men and women in marriage is false, that the Bible is full of fairy tales, how do they know? The assumption or starting point behind these claims holds their limited perspective or opinion as adequate to know such things. But atheists cannot possibly know that the starting point by which they interpret and explain the world is true. Their limitations are too great.\n\nStand the High Ground\nThus, in responding to unbelief, we should take care to honor God as the infinite source and sustainer of all things, who can do anything, on whom we depend for knowledge and all things. We dare not affirm unbelief by conforming our answer to suit their unjustified assumptions. The idea that finite and fallen people are the ultimate standard of truth and can speak with authority about ultimate reality results in the loss of truth amidst the blind-faith opinions of millions of people, none more capable of speaking about ultimate realities then the others. None can know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look or know what lies beyond the universe and their three or four dimensions of existence. If you start with human opinion apart from God’s revelation, you end up with human opinion.\n\nBelievers, then, should not discard the high ground of God and His Word by seeking to conform God’s explanation of Himself, reality, and history to the unbelieving worldview. This not only dishonors God, it forfeits the opportunity to expose the false assumptions behind false interpretations of God and the world and the universal need of Christ and Scripture for truth. We should not affirm the unbeliever’s presumed authority to speak about things they cannot know apart from Scripture by reducing miracles to theological metaphors rather than actual events, by making a global flood local, or by putting God behind the unscientific and absurd hypothesis of evolution, thereby making death, that horrific and painful curse and enemy, God’s means to advance life, an odd notion that overthrows the entirety of the history of redemption and makes God look more like the devil than the holy and good God of Scripture.\n\nThe Most Basic Force\nBehind the basic assumption or starting point of our view of the world stands a more basic force—love or hatred toward God. Disdain for God’s authority, resentment of His holiness and righteous judgments, and an unwillingness to submit to His will drive the assumptions and interpretations of the atheist. For the believer, “the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Rom 5:5 NAS). “The love of Christ controls us” (2 Cor. 5:14 NAS). Scripture reveals that God displays His existence and attributes clearly and conspicuously in the nature of all of creation (Rom. 1:18ff.), His giving of good things (Acts 14:17), and our conscience (Rom. 2:14-15). God opened our eyes to see that “the heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands” (Ps. 19:1 NAS). In this we rejoice, “For Thou, O LORD, hast made me glad by what Thou hast done, I will sing for joy at the works of Thy hands. How great are Thy works, O LORD!” (Ps. 92:4-5 NAS).\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 9): The Vital Starting Point','','inherit','closed','closed','','13095-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:00','2023-03-21 09:39:00','',13095,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14633',0,'revision','',0),(14634,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:02','2023-03-21 09:39:02','Atheists sometimes describe terrible diseases by which children suffer and die and declare that they would never believe in a God that would allow such things. Most of us have struggled with pain and evil and the profound issues they raise, while countless books wrestle with the pastoral, theological, and philosophical concerns. This short article, then, barely scratches the surface. Nonetheless, it answers a critical question that applies to this objection, and by extension to all objections against God’s existence: Can anyone know that God cannot exist because pain and evil exist? (The question of how <em>moral</em> evil came to be in a world created by a perfectly good, infinitely powerful, and all-knowing God will be addressed in a separate article.)\n\nParadise Ruined\nLife hurts. The pain of losing loved ones can bring the strongest among us to despair, while the history and scope of atrocities committed for ambition and power are staggering. Scripture blames the free choice of created beings for sin, bringing separation from God, spiritual darkness, and the curse of natural evil, including sickness, natural disasters, and death. “All have sinned” (Rom. 3:23), and all enter the world with Adam’s guilt and sinful bent, “original sin” (Rom. 5:12ff.). Rebellion against God has spoiled paradise, the same rebellion that denies God’s existence.\n\nGod can do what He pleases with what He created and sustains. He owes us nothing, every good we enjoy comes from His gracious hand, and we owe Him everything. “Who are you, O man, who answers back to God?” (Rom. 9:20 NAS). God is also good, wise, overflowing with lovingkindness, and righteous. He neither rewards wickedness nor punishes innocence. Yet, many have suffered under the likes of Hitler, Stalin, Mao, and religious terrorists. Moreover, babies yet to utter a bad word die in their parent’s arms, while others never leave the womb alive by meeting the scalpel of one sworn to do no harm. (Ironically, many that point to evil to deny God’s existence choose to make a virtue of killing the unborn.)\n\nInsufficient Knowledge\nWe have seen the atheists’ inability to know and explain transcendent realities, that human limitations reduce their basic claims to speculations and blind-faith in a presumed ability to know what they cannot possibly know. Atheists would need infinite knowledge to know that the infinite God does not exist, that the Bible miracles are impossible, that nothing exists beyond what we experience with our senses, and that God did not speak all things into existence in six days. And though people choose to <em>believe</em> that God does not exist from the existence of moral and natural evil, can they <em>know</em> it?\n\nTo know that the existence of pain and evil deny the existence of God, one would need to know that we do not exist forever after death; that temporary suffering cannot have an eternal purpose that we do not presently understand; that God will not ultimately execute justice and evil people will never get their just deserts; that no rewards and punishments will be given in the next life that compensate for what people do or suffer in this life; that evil will never be remedied and destroyed; that mankind is not responsible for moral evil and the curse that brought natural calamities; that God cannot righteously judge and curse the world because of sin; that God is unjust and mankind deserves better; and that God’s Word is false and does not explain all we need to know about pain and evil. The finite and fallen atheist cannot possibly know these things, and Scripture says none of them are true. None can possibly know that God does not exist from the presence of moral and natural evil in the world.\n\nSinful and Unreasonable Presumption\nGod identifies the heart of this unbelieving argument in His response to Job’s challenge to His righteousness: “Will you really annul My judgment? Will you condemn Me that you may be justified?” (Job 40:8 NAS). So, before we criticize God, maybe we should consider Job’s response, “Behold, I am insignificant; what can I reply to Thee? I lay my hand on my mouth” (Job 40:4 NAS). Created, dependent, and fallen people cannot judge or make claims on a perfect God.\n\nGod’s existence does not depend on our limited perspective and understanding, His ways are infinitely higher than ours (Isa. 55:9), in history and personal circumstances. To reject God’s existence because we do not understand something makes our limited understanding the standard of what can exist or be true, an unreasonable notion. Ultimate reality cannot be determined by the limited perspective and knowledge of people who <em>still</em> do not know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look, who have never been beyond the three to four dimensions of their existence or been to the other side of the universe. Dismissing an infinite and holy God because we do not understand the existence of pain and evil is foolish. As it is, Scripture tells us all we need to know about it.\n\nGod Is Good\nGod has displayed His goodness in “satisfying your hearts with food and gladness” (Act 14:17 NAS). He “causes His sun to rise on <em>the</em> evil and <em>the</em> good and sends rain on <em>the</em> righteous and <em>the</em> unrighteous” (Matt. 5:45 NAS) and has made His power and glory known to all by what He has made (Rom. 1:18ff.). And greatest of all, God has displayed His infinite excellence and moral perfection in the person and saving work of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Evil exists, but God has remedied it and will ultimately dispose of it, while “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Rom. 8:18 NAS). Rather than encouraging the terrible evil of the world by denying the ultimate judgment of it, and by insulting the One to whom we owe all love, honor, and obedience, and leading others to do the same to face an eternity of suffering for it, perhaps atheists should give their life to Christ for forgiveness of their own evil. God is patient, “not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9 NAS).\n\nConclusion\nMysteries abound, but our limited perspective determines nothing about God. In the end, all unbelief denies God’s obvious existence and authority from a desire to do what we want. Ironically, no greater evil exists than to deny and insult the One who created us, gives us all good things, and has willingly paid the price of infinite suffering for us that we might be holy and happy forever. We enjoy His blessings of love, family, food, friends, and the stars in the sky, but use our God-given talents to insult Him. Yes, evil exists, but none so terrible as contempt for the One to whom we owe all love, honor, and gratitude.\n\nIf you cry with the Psalmist, “when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where <em>is</em> thy God?” (Ps. 2:1-3), the day will come when\n<blockquote>He shall dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be among them, and He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be <em>any</em> death; there shall no longer be <em>any</em> mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away” (Rev. 21:1-4 NAS).</blockquote>\nMay God grant grace that many atheists will join us through faith in Christ, in whom is true and everlasting life. Amen.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 8): Pain and Evil','','inherit','closed','closed','','13078-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:02','2023-03-21 09:39:02','',13078,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14634',0,'revision','',0),(14635,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:03','2023-03-21 09:39:03','','creation-by-God-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','creation-by-god-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:39:03','2023-03-21 09:39:03','',13058,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/creation-by-God-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14636,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:06','2023-03-21 09:39:06','The previous article highlighted the myth of “science and reason versus faith” and the irony that atheists call people from trust in God to trust in the atheist’s opinion. They say, in effect, “have faith in me.” But like the rest of us, they are finite and fallible. And apart from God’s revelation, no atheist can know what they assert about God and ultimate realities. One such claim denies that God created the heavens and the earth from nothing. To this we again pose the question: how do atheists know what they claim to know? Or, to the present purpose, how can the atheist know that God did not speak the heavens and earth into existence?\n\nNo Neutrality\nTo begin, no one views the universe with neutral objectivity. Everyone interprets the world according to assumptions (presuppositions) about the nature of God, reality, mankind, knowledge, truth, authority, and ethics. These assumptions form a person’s worldview, the lens through which they see and interpret all things. Those who assume the existence of the God of Scripture see His fingerprints everywhere as the design, order, and beauty of life and the universe reflect His power and genius. Atheists view the same design, order, and beauty as an accident of time and chance. Believers consider all things as impossible without God, while atheists see them as possible without God.\n\nUltimate Authority and Object of Faith\nWhose assumptions (presuppositions), then, are reasonable, justifiable, and consistent with the design, order, and beauty of life and the universe? And in what authority or object of faith does one trust to form these assumptions? The believer trusts God and Scripture, while the unbeliever trusts his or her own perspective and opinion. Science, per se, does not speak with authority, <em>scientists</em> do. Finite and fallible, scientists interpret things according to their worldview. Thus, appeals to science as an authority are actually appeals to scientists that agree with a particular view. No scientist, however, can speak with authority concerning transcendent realities beyond the reach of the scientific method. And no one, scientist or otherwise, views the world with neutral objectivity when it points to God and our debt to love and obey Him.\n\nLimits\nAs we have seen, to know that God does not exist requires knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond. And, if one cannot know that the biblical God of infinite power does not exist, one cannot possibly know that He did not speak the universe into existence. A person of five senses, limited intellect, and the constraints of three or four dimensions cannot possibly know what a Spirit of infinite power can or cannot do. Apart from God’s revelation, we can only guess. But guesswork is not science.\n\nBlind faith accepts the notion that a big explosion and chance created the design and order of the universe, including the complexity of life and the necessary systems to support it. The scientific method, however, cannot demonstrate it. On the contrary, it remains intuitively obvious that design requires a designer while chaos produces nothing but chaos. And no scientific discovery points to a world older than the Scriptural account of approximately six thousand years unless viewed in a manner consistent with evolutionary principles that require millions and billions of years. And if atheists cannot know that the infinite God of the universe does not exist, they cannot know that He did not create the universe in six days, with light from distant stars already visible, etc., etc. God is not constrained by that which He created and sustains.\n\nLudicrous\nAll things reflect the biblical account when viewed according to the obvious existence of the infinite God of Scripture. And no scientific evidence nullifies the biblical account apart from unbiblical assumptions that neither the scientific method nor the nature of reality can support. One might claim, according to evolutionary assumptions, that an exquisite painting came from an explosion in a paint factory, but never has this happened and the nature of reality cannot support such a hypothesis. Even the most zealous atheist would view such an explanation as ludicrous.\n\nHow, then, can finite and fallible people know that God did not create everything from nothing in six days? They can’t. We do well to remember God’s rebuke of Job:\n<blockquote>Who is this that darkens counsel By words without knowledge? Now gird up your loins like a man, And I will ask you, and you instruct Me! Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell <em>Me</em>, if you have understanding, Who set its measurements, since you know? Or who stretched the line on it? On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone, When the morning stars sang together, And all the sons of God shouted for joy? (Job 38:2-7 NAS).</blockquote>\nConclusion\nReams of excellent scholarship concerning the age of the earth can be studied to great benefit. But fundamental to this and any related discussion remains the question: how do atheists know what they claim to know? And are the assumptions behind their interpretations of scientific discoveries (such as chance and the evolutionary process), justified, reasonable, and consistent with the nature of reality, or demonstrable by the scientific method? The limited perspective and understanding of atheists cannot justify their claims.\n\nFor the believer, infinitely more obvious than the brilliance behind a beautiful painting stands the genius behind all things. God’s power and infinite excellence are so “clearly seen” and “understood” by His works that all people “know” Him and are “without excuse” (Rom. 1:18ff.). Indeed, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands” (Ps. 19:1 NAS). Behind every unbiblical explanation of our origins lies a dislike of the truth that God created and owns everything, apart from whom we have nothing; that His authority is ultimate, that life and every good gift comes from Him, and that we owe Him all love, honor, and gratitude, forever. Here we find the reason people believe unscientific and impossible explanations of the origin of life and the universe—they dislike the obvious alternative.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 7): Creation','','inherit','closed','closed','','13058-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:06','2023-03-21 09:39:06','',13058,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14636',0,'revision','',0),(14637,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:08','2023-03-21 09:39:08','Naturalists, as do all atheists, reject the authority of God and Scripture and assume their own ability and authority to explain the nature of the universe and beyond, trusting their limited perspective as sufficient to explain ultimate realities. In the previous article we noted that naturalists claim that nothing exists except matter in space and time. Continuing our look at naturalism, we examine further why finite people, from their finite vantage point, cannot know that souls, angels, and God as Infinite Spirit do not exist.\n\nScripture clearly reveals the existence of the immaterial soul as the key element of human life, angels as spirits serving those who inherit eternal life, and God as the boundless Spirit that created and sustains everything. Each exist beyond the physical realm, possess none of its limitations, and cannot be measured. And like all things, angels and our souls depend on God as their designer, creator, and sustainer.\n\nWe know that angels and souls exist because God exists. Scripture reveals God’s infinite excellence and works, while His creation, His giving of good things, and our conscience display God’s existence and attributes. “That which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse” (Rom. 1:19-20 NAS). “He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good and gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness” (Acts 14:17 NAS). He has written His law on every heart (Rom. 2:14-15 NAS).\n\nAnd in the same way all people know that God exists, so we know the reality of the soul—by its effects. Created and sustained by God, we intuitively and immediately see the evidence, apart from complex logical or philosophical formulas. The soul appears in personality, in how we love, hate, reason, choose, create, and know good from evil, none of which are explicable or possible by mere time, chance, and matter. Like the existence of God, the reality of the soul is obvious.\n\nYet, naturalists deny this, and no argument will convince them otherwise until God opens their spiritual eyes and removes the prejudice against their debt to love and obey Him. But the question remains, how can someone limited by five senses, three or four dimensions, and limited reason (itself an evidence of the soul), possibly know that people have no spirit that gives life to the body and lives after death? Naturalists reason from the material to the immaterial and infer from the physical world that no spiritual world is possible. But, how does this follow? How does the nature of physical things make impossible things that lack and transcend physical properties? How can anyone know that reality must be limited to what they can taste, touch, see, hear and feel, or be limited to that which they can fully understand?\n\nLike a creature of the sea concluding from its limited experience that nothing exists beyond the realm of salt water, so the naturalist denies the existence of a realm beyond the “natural.” Denying the obvious, they draw conclusions from data that imply no such thing, like pointing to ice cream to deny the existence of quantum physics, or a lump of coal to deny the existence of Maine Coon cats. Children may lack the ability to understand things beyond their experience and capacity to know, but how greater looms human ignorance of the immeasurable universe and beyond. Of course, all things point to the power and genius of God as their creator and sustainer. But the atheist denies this obvious reality and attempts to draw conclusions from data that cannot support their claims. Given our profound human limitations, we cannot deny transcendent realities by pointing to material things. In the end, our meager experience and perspective reduce the best arguments against the existence of the soul to blind-faith guesses.\n\nThe same applies to angels. Some deny their reality by appealing to debunked accounts of ghosts and the paranormal. But these need not form the evidence for angels—the obvious existence of God and His testimony in Scripture suffice. Moreover, the question for every atheist applies here, how do you know what you claim to know? Angels have none of the properties of the material universe, how can a finite human being know they do not exist? How can anyone know that nothing exists beyond what they can see, touch, taste, hear, smell, or understand? Can we reasonably limit what is possible in and beyond the universe to what we can perceive or comprehend? Who can legitimately make their own understanding the standard of truth, or the measure of what is possible in and beyond the universe? To do so is neither reasonable nor scientific.\n\nAnd like denials of miracles, one must first know that God does not exist to know that angels and souls do not exist. And one must know everything in the universe and beyond, including every possibility, to know that God does not exist. Even so, our ability to think and reason about such things gives evidence of the existence of both God and our soul. Created in His image (though marred by sin), we display aspects of His power and genius.\n\nMuch more could be said, but the intent of the series is not to prove the existence of spiritual realities—the self-authenticating and divine nature of Scripture suffices for that. The narrow purpose highlights the blind-faith and unjustified assumption underlying every denial of God’s existence and works—the adequacy of limited people to explain transcendent realities. Rejecting God’s clear revelation in Scripture, creation, and their own conscience, they assume for themselves the ability to know what they cannot know.\n\nThus, the question remains for the naturalist, as for every atheist, how do they know what they claim to know? On a good day, mere mortals can remember where they put the car keys. Nonetheless, we cannot know the contents of our neighbor’s garage without having a look or the neighbor telling us. Denying God’s explanation, what qualifies mere specks in the universe to speak with authority about transcendent things? Regardless of the size of their books, the length and number of their scientific and logical formulas, or the number of people supporting their claims (none of which could exist apart from God), no argument can show that souls, angels, or God Himself do not exist. As it is, they use their God-given abilities to deny their own special status as created in God’s image, reject their would-be servants that God created to “render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation” (Heb. 1:14 NAS), and insult the Infinite Spirit that designed, created, and sustains them that they might know and love Him in happiness forever. Christ paid an infinite price for sin that they might enjoy such a gift. May God grant them grace and mercy to accept it.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 5): Naturalism (Continued)','','inherit','closed','closed','','13021-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:08','2023-03-21 09:39:08','',13021,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14637',0,'revision','',0),(14638,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:09','2023-03-21 09:39:09','Atheists often recite the mantra that their denial of God’s existence stands on reason and science while belief in God stands on faith. The claim, of course is pure fiction. All people use reason and all people have faith in an ultimate authority, though the object of faith may differ. But problems with the claim run deeper, with an irony we would do well to appreciate. Defining faith as blind, the apologists of atheism believe they call people from fairy tales to the enlightened conclusions of science and reason. But underlying the “rational and scientific” façade lurks a well-disguised plea—a call to faith in the perspective and opinion of fallen and finite people. The evangelist of atheism says, in effect, “entrust your meaning, purpose, life, and the ultimate destiny of your soul to my personal opinion.” In short, “have faith in me.” The debate between atheists and Christians has nothing to do with faith versus reason and science (every scientific discovery is consistent with the Christian worldview). Rather, it concerns faith in the God who created everything, knows everything, and has explained everything to us in Scripture, versus faith in the perspective and opinions of people who do not know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look.\n\nA Tall Story and Calling\nAs we have seen, atheists assume for themselves the ability and authority to know and explain ultimate realities that they cannot possibly know. They presume their own sufficiency to tell others the source, meaning, and purpose of life, including the destiny of the soul. Naturalists, of course, deny the soul’s existence, a belief they cannot know as true. Yet, they invite you to trust their opinions, including no life after death, no judgment of their works, and no heaven or hell.\n\nThey ask you to reject Christ, the only possibility of an eternal, holy, and happy life of meaning and purpose, and exchange Him for the speculations of limited and fallen people. They invite you to deny the obvious, to treat with contempt the One who created us in His image, has given us every good thing, including the ability to reason and discuss such things, and has paid an infinite price of infinite suffering to Himself that we might have forgiveness of sins and new life. They ask you to discard the knowledge of your God-given purpose, meaning, and destiny of immeasurable joy in heaven as God’s royal children in exchange for a few years to do what you want without accountability, without hope or purpose as an accident of time and chance destined for nothing, even as they ask you to trust them that you will not end up in hell for it.\n\nAtheists propose a tall story with serious consequences. And who would dare assume responsibility for the eternal destiny of others and direct them entrust their souls to such blind-faith and unwarranted opinions? Who would write books to influence millions without a certainty that their opinions are absolutely true and not leading people to a horrible fate? Their boldness is frightening and only outdone by their inability to know what they so confidently assert and ask others to embrace. By denying God’s existence they have assumed His place.\n\nA Gamble\nWhatever you may think of Pascal’s “Wager” as an encouragement to pursue God, one should consider the eternal consequences of the Christian versus the atheist being wrong about heaven and hell. The contrast is stark. Eternity is forever. Yet, atheists cannot possibly know that hell does not exist and they will not bail you out should they be wrong. Beer commercials notwithstanding, there are no parties in this horrible place. Why would anyone risk even a 1% chance of spending eternity there? Yet, the unreasonable deception of sin risks eternal condemnation for a few years of bread that never satisfies (Isa. 55:2), incurring the guilt of inviting others to follow this disastrous course. And as for the here and now, ask any believer if their life is better or worse since they have been born again, even with its hardships and the scorn of the world. True believers know the infinite value of Christ as compared to the temporary and shallow allurements of the world. Why, then, should anyone trust the untrustworthy prophets of nothing and despair?\n\nBe Encouraged and Be Warned\nTo the believer, God remains infinitely excellent and worthy of your life and worship, while the inability of atheists to know what they claim to know will boost your faith in Christ and Scripture. To the unbeliever, please reflect upon the ability of your object of faith to meet your needs and deliver on its promises, implied or otherwise. Please consider that appeals to reason and science to deny God are neither reasonable nor scientific but attempts to justify unbelief and avoid the One to whom we owe all things. Deep down all people know God exists and that He deserves our love, trust, and gratitude (Rom. 1:18ff.). And consider that those writing thick books denying the truth of Scripture, who ask you to trust their siren song concerning God and all things, cannot possibly know what they ask you to believe.\n\nAnd know that “the Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9 NAS), that He “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:1-4 NAS). And while people find comfort in numbers, book sales and popularity provide an untrustworthy barometer of truth or virtue, especially today. “The gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it” (Matt. 7:14 NAS). As for the supposed earthly benefits of presuming one’s independence from God, “what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37 NAS). And disinterest displays contempt for the One who gave us life and every good thing, to whom we owe all things. Christ suffered infinite wrath on His soul to pay the penalty for our rebellion and contempt, and he did so from an overflowing love for the unlovable. Imagine the ingratitude of ignoring such a gift.\n\nHave Faith in Christ\nThus, along with the saints and the Apostles, “We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin <em>to be</em> sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:20-21 NAS). May God give you grace to trust Christ, who alone gives eternal life and meets your every need, to whom belongs all glory and honor forever, Amen.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 6): \\\"Have Faith in Me\\\"','','inherit','closed','closed','','13032-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:09','2023-03-21 09:39:09','',13032,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14638',0,'revision','',0),(14639,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:12','2023-03-21 09:39:12','In earlier articles we examined the atheists’ assumption that their limited human perspective can speak with authority about ultimate and transcendent realities. We also saw that theological mysteries and difficulties cannot support denials of God’s existence. God is infinite, we are not. Just because we cannot understand something does not make it untrue. Our opinion and experience do not form the ultimate standard of what can be true or possible in and beyond the universe as we know it (and we know very little). We turn now to another important facet of these principles: the assumptions through which we view God and the world form the “starting point” of our thinking. When we view and interpret things we always begin with assumptions about God and the world, the colored lenses through which we view things.\r\n\r\nAssumptions and Implications\r\nAtheists assume they can know that God does not exist, and thereby assume that the Bible is not God’s word, Christ is not God, heaven and hell are imaginary, no ultimate authority exists to define or judge sin, life and the universe formed and organized themselves, et al. In short, if your starting point excludes God, then everything will be interpreted accordingly. For the believer, God forms our most basic assumption. Therefore, He created and sustains us, apart from Him we have and can know nothing, and to Him we owe everything. The Bible is His authoritative revelation of His person and works in history and beyond and is the handbook for living and eternal life in Christ (among many other things).\r\n\r\nBelief Determines Interpretation\r\nA popular misconception affirms that people start with a neutral belief system, objectively look at the world, and then believe or reject God based on the evidence. Reality, however, tells another story. Belief <em>precedes</em> a view of the evidence and determines its interpretation. The starting point determines the end point, or our starting assumptions determine our conclusions. We view and interpret everything according to our most basic assumptions about God and His world. This explains why an atheist can see the stunning design and beauty of life and the universe and deny a Designer. Rejecting God, they see no evidence for Him. Believers view the same world and see God’s genius everywhere. At issue is whose starting assumptions are true?\r\n\r\nToo Limited\r\nWe again ask the question, can the atheist know that their starting point for interpreting the world is true, that God does not exist? Can they possibly know the basis by which they have devised the hypothesis of evolution, deny the evidence for a Designer, and determine right and wrong? As we have seen, the atheist would need to know everything about everything in the universe and beyond to know that God does not exist. Thus, the atheist’s entire enterprise of interpreting and explaining the world stands on the blind-faith assumption of their ability to know ultimate realities. Having started in the wrong place, they end up in the wrong place.\r\n\r\nWhen an atheist claims that God cannot exist because… [fill in the blank], we should immediately recognize the unreasonable assumption of their own perspective as sufficient to know what they claim to know. When someone says hell does not exist, that God’s design for men and women in marriage is false, that the Bible is full of fairy tales, how do they know? The assumption or starting point behind these claims holds their limited perspective or opinion as adequate to know such things. But atheists cannot possibly know that the starting point by which they interpret and explain the world is true. Their limitations are too great.\r\n\r\nStand the High Ground\r\nThus, in responding to unbelief, we should take care to honor God as the infinite source and sustainer of all things, who can do anything, on whom we depend for knowledge and all things. We dare not affirm unbelief by conforming our answer to suit their unjustified assumptions. The idea that finite and fallen people are the ultimate standard of truth and can speak with authority about ultimate reality results in the loss of truth amidst the blind-faith opinions of millions of people, none more capable of speaking about ultimate realities then the others. None can know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look or know what lies beyond the universe and their three or four dimensions of existence. If you start with human opinion apart from God’s revelation, you end up with human opinion.\r\n\r\nBelievers, then, should not discard the high ground of God and His Word by seeking to conform God’s explanation of Himself, reality, and history to the unbelieving worldview. This not only dishonors God, it forfeits the opportunity to expose the false assumptions behind false interpretations of God and the world and the universal need of Christ and Scripture for truth. We should not affirm the unbeliever’s presumed authority to speak about things they cannot know apart from Scripture by reducing miracles to theological metaphors rather than actual events, by making a global flood local, or by putting God behind the unscientific and absurd hypothesis of evolution, thereby making death, that horrific and painful curse and enemy, God’s means to advance life, an odd notion that overthrows the entirety of the history of redemption and makes God look more like the devil than the holy and good God of Scripture.\r\n\r\nThe Most Basic Force\r\nBehind the basic assumption or starting point of our view of the world stands a more basic force—love or hatred toward God. Disdain for God’s authority, resentment of His holiness and righteous judgments, and an unwillingness to submit to His will drive the assumptions and interpretations of the atheist. For the believer, “the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Rom 5:5 NAS). “The love of Christ controls us” (2 Cor. 5:14 NAS). Scripture reveals that God displays His existence and attributes clearly and conspicuously in the nature of all of creation (Rom. 1:18ff.), His giving of good things (Acts 14:17), and our conscience (Rom. 2:14-15). God opened our eyes to see that “the heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands” (Ps. 19:1 NAS). In this we rejoice, “For Thou, O LORD, hast made me glad by what Thou hast done, I will sing for joy at the works of Thy hands. How great are Thy works, O LORD!” (Ps. 92:4-5 NAS).\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 9): The Vital Starting Point','','inherit','closed','closed','','13095-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:12','2023-03-21 09:39:12','',13095,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14639',0,'revision','',0),(14640,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:16','2023-03-21 09:39:16','Atheists sometimes describe terrible diseases by which children suffer and die and declare that they would never believe in a God that would allow such things. Most of us have struggled with pain and evil and the profound issues they raise, while countless books wrestle with the pastoral, theological, and philosophical concerns. This short article, then, barely scratches the surface. Nonetheless, it answers a critical question that applies to this objection, and by extension to all objections against God’s existence: Can anyone know that God cannot exist because pain and evil exist? (The question of how <em>moral</em> evil came to be in a world created by a perfectly good, infinitely powerful, and all-knowing God will be addressed in a separate article.)\r\n\r\nParadise Ruined\r\nLife hurts. The pain of losing loved ones can bring the strongest among us to despair, while the history and scope of atrocities committed for ambition and power are staggering. Scripture blames the free choice of created beings for sin, bringing separation from God, spiritual darkness, and the curse of natural evil, including sickness, natural disasters, and death. “All have sinned” (Rom. 3:23), and all enter the world with Adam’s guilt and sinful bent, “original sin” (Rom. 5:12ff.). Rebellion against God has spoiled paradise, the same rebellion that denies God’s existence.\r\n\r\nGod can do what He pleases with what He created and sustains. He owes us nothing, every good we enjoy comes from His gracious hand, and we owe Him everything. “Who are you, O man, who answers back to God?” (Rom. 9:20 NAS). God is also good, wise, overflowing with lovingkindness, and righteous. He neither rewards wickedness nor punishes innocence. Yet, many have suffered under the likes of Hitler, Stalin, Mao, and religious terrorists. Moreover, babies yet to utter a bad word die in their parent’s arms, while others never leave the womb alive by meeting the scalpel of one sworn to do no harm. (Ironically, many that point to evil to deny God’s existence choose to make a virtue of killing the unborn.)\r\n\r\nInsufficient Knowledge\r\nWe have seen the atheists’ inability to know and explain transcendent realities, that human limitations reduce their basic claims to speculations and blind-faith in a presumed ability to know what they cannot possibly know. Atheists would need infinite knowledge to know that the infinite God does not exist, that the Bible miracles are impossible, that nothing exists beyond what we experience with our senses, and that God did not speak all things into existence in six days. And though people choose to <em>believe</em> that God does not exist from the existence of moral and natural evil, can they <em>know</em> it?\r\n\r\nTo know that the existence of pain and evil deny the existence of God, one would need to know that we do not exist forever after death; that temporary suffering cannot have an eternal purpose that we do not presently understand; that God will not ultimately execute justice and evil people will never get their just deserts; that no rewards and punishments will be given in the next life that compensate for what people do or suffer in this life; that evil will never be remedied and destroyed; that mankind is not responsible for moral evil and the curse that brought natural calamities; that God cannot righteously judge and curse the world because of sin; that God is unjust and mankind deserves better; and that God’s Word is false and does not explain all we need to know about pain and evil. The finite and fallen atheist cannot possibly know these things, and Scripture says none of them are true. None can possibly know that God does not exist from the presence of moral and natural evil in the world.\r\n\r\nSinful and Unreasonable Presumption\r\nGod identifies the heart of this unbelieving argument in His response to Job’s challenge to His righteousness: “Will you really annul My judgment? Will you condemn Me that you may be justified?” (Job 40:8 NAS). So, before we criticize God, maybe we should consider Job’s response, “Behold, I am insignificant; what can I reply to Thee? I lay my hand on my mouth” (Job 40:4 NAS). Created, dependent, and fallen people cannot judge or make claims on a perfect God.\r\n\r\nGod’s existence does not depend on our limited perspective and understanding, His ways are infinitely higher than ours (Isa. 55:9), in history and personal circumstances. To reject God’s existence because we do not understand something makes our limited understanding the standard of what can exist or be true, an unreasonable notion. Ultimate reality cannot be determined by the limited perspective and knowledge of people who <em>still</em> do not know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look, who have never been beyond the three to four dimensions of their existence or been to the other side of the universe. Dismissing an infinite and holy God because we do not understand the existence of pain and evil is foolish. As it is, Scripture tells us all we need to know about it.\r\n\r\nGod Is Good\r\nGod has displayed His goodness in “satisfying your hearts with food and gladness” (Act 14:17 NAS). He “causes His sun to rise on <em>the</em> evil and <em>the</em> good and sends rain on <em>the</em> righteous and <em>the</em> unrighteous” (Matt. 5:45 NAS) and has made His power and glory known to all by what He has made (Rom. 1:18ff.). And greatest of all, God has displayed His infinite excellence and moral perfection in the person and saving work of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Evil exists, but God has remedied it and will ultimately dispose of it, while “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Rom. 8:18 NAS). Rather than encouraging the terrible evil of the world by denying the ultimate judgment of it, and by insulting the One to whom we owe all love, honor, and obedience, and leading others to do the same to face an eternity of suffering for it, perhaps atheists should give their life to Christ for forgiveness of their own evil. God is patient, “not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9 NAS).\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nMysteries abound, but our limited perspective determines nothing about God. In the end, all unbelief denies God’s obvious existence and authority from a desire to do what we want. Ironically, no greater evil exists than to deny and insult the One who created us, gives us all good things, and has willingly paid the price of infinite suffering for us that we might be holy and happy forever. We enjoy His blessings of love, family, food, friends, and the stars in the sky, but use our God-given talents to insult Him. Yes, evil exists, but none so terrible as contempt for the One to whom we owe all love, honor, and gratitude.\r\n\r\nIf you cry with the Psalmist, “when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where <em>is</em> thy God?” (Ps. 2:1-3), the day will come when\r\n<blockquote>He shall dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be among them, and He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be <em>any</em> death; there shall no longer be <em>any</em> mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away” (Rev. 21:1-4 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nMay God grant grace that many atheists will join us through faith in Christ, in whom is true and everlasting life. Amen.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 8): Pain and Evil','','inherit','closed','closed','','13078-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:16','2023-03-21 09:39:16','',13078,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14640',0,'revision','',0),(14641,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:25','2023-03-21 09:39:25','The previous article highlighted the myth of “science and reason versus faith” and the irony that atheists call people from trust in God to trust in the atheist’s opinion. They say, in effect, “have faith in me.” But like the rest of us, they are finite and fallible. And apart from God’s revelation, no atheist can know what they assert about God and ultimate realities. One such claim denies that God created the heavens and the earth from nothing. To this we again pose the question: how do atheists know what they claim to know? Or, to the present purpose, how can the atheist know that God did not speak the heavens and earth into existence?\r\n\r\nNo Neutrality\r\nTo begin, no one views the universe with neutral objectivity. Everyone interprets the world according to assumptions (presuppositions) about the nature of God, reality, mankind, knowledge, truth, authority, and ethics. These assumptions form a person’s worldview, the lens through which they see and interpret all things. Those who assume the existence of the God of Scripture see His fingerprints everywhere as the design, order, and beauty of life and the universe reflect His power and genius. Atheists view the same design, order, and beauty as an accident of time and chance. Believers consider all things as impossible without God, while atheists see them as possible without God.\r\n\r\nUltimate Authority and Object of Faith\r\nWhose assumptions (presuppositions), then, are reasonable, justifiable, and consistent with the design, order, and beauty of life and the universe? And in what authority or object of faith does one trust to form these assumptions? The believer trusts God and Scripture, while the unbeliever trusts his or her own perspective and opinion. Science, per se, does not speak with authority, <em>scientists</em> do. Finite and fallible, scientists interpret things according to their worldview. Thus, appeals to science as an authority are actually appeals to scientists that agree with a particular view. No scientist, however, can speak with authority concerning transcendent realities beyond the reach of the scientific method. And no one, scientist or otherwise, views the world with neutral objectivity when it points to God and our debt to love and obey Him.\r\n\r\nLimits\r\nAs we have seen, to know that God does not exist requires knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond. And, if one cannot know that the biblical God of infinite power does not exist, one cannot possibly know that He did not speak the universe into existence. A person of five senses, limited intellect, and the constraints of three or four dimensions cannot possibly know what a Spirit of infinite power can or cannot do. Apart from God’s revelation, we can only guess. But guesswork is not science.\r\n\r\nBlind faith accepts the notion that a big explosion and chance created the design and order of the universe, including the complexity of life and the necessary systems to support it. The scientific method, however, cannot demonstrate it. On the contrary, it remains intuitively obvious that design requires a designer while chaos produces nothing but chaos. And no scientific discovery points to a world older than the Scriptural account of approximately six thousand years unless viewed in a manner consistent with evolutionary principles that require millions and billions of years. And if atheists cannot know that the infinite God of the universe does not exist, they cannot know that He did not create the universe in six days, with light from distant stars already visible, etc., etc. God is not constrained by that which He created and sustains.\r\n\r\nLudicrous\r\nAll things reflect the biblical account when viewed according to the obvious existence of the infinite God of Scripture. And no scientific evidence nullifies the biblical account apart from unbiblical assumptions that neither the scientific method nor the nature of reality can support. One might claim, according to evolutionary assumptions, that an exquisite painting came from an explosion in a paint factory, but never has this happened and the nature of reality cannot support such a hypothesis. Even the most zealous atheist would view such an explanation as ludicrous.\r\n\r\nHow, then, can finite and fallible people know that God did not create everything from nothing in six days? They can’t. We do well to remember God’s rebuke of Job:\r\n<blockquote>Who is this that darkens counsel By words without knowledge? Now gird up your loins like a man, And I will ask you, and you instruct Me! Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell <em>Me</em>, if you have understanding, Who set its measurements, since you know? Or who stretched the line on it? On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone, When the morning stars sang together, And all the sons of God shouted for joy? (Job 38:2-7 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nConclusion\r\nReams of excellent scholarship concerning the age of the earth can be studied to great benefit. But fundamental to this and any related discussion remains the question: how do atheists know what they claim to know? And are the assumptions behind their interpretations of scientific discoveries (such as chance and the evolutionary process), justified, reasonable, and consistent with the nature of reality, or demonstrable by the scientific method? The limited perspective and understanding of atheists cannot justify their claims.\r\n\r\nFor the believer, infinitely more obvious than the brilliance behind a beautiful painting stands the genius behind all things. God’s power and infinite excellence are so “clearly seen” and “understood” by His works that all people “know” Him and are “without excuse” (Rom. 1:18ff.). Indeed, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands” (Ps. 19:1 NAS). Behind every unbiblical explanation of our origins lies a dislike of the truth that God created and owns everything, apart from whom we have nothing; that His authority is ultimate, that life and every good gift comes from Him, and that we owe Him all love, honor, and gratitude, forever. Here we find the reason people believe unscientific and impossible explanations of the origin of life and the universe—they dislike the obvious alternative.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 7): Creation','','inherit','closed','closed','','13058-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:25','2023-03-21 09:39:25','',13058,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14641',0,'revision','',0),(14642,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:52','2023-03-21 09:39:52','','have-faith-in-me-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','have-faith-in-me-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:39:52','2023-03-21 09:39:52','',13032,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/have-faith-in-me-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14643,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:56','2023-03-21 09:39:56','','naturalism-thinking-man-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','naturalism-thinking-man-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:39:56','2023-03-21 09:39:56','',13021,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/naturalism-thinking-man-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14644,1,'2023-03-21 09:39:59','2023-03-21 09:39:59','Atheists often recite the mantra that their denial of God’s existence stands on reason and science while belief in God stands on faith. The claim, of course is pure fiction. All people use reason and all people have faith in an ultimate authority, though the object of faith may differ. But problems with the claim run deeper, with an irony we would do well to appreciate. Defining faith as blind, the apologists of atheism believe they call people from fairy tales to the enlightened conclusions of science and reason. But underlying the “rational and scientific” façade lurks a well-disguised plea—a call to faith in the perspective and opinion of fallen and finite people. The evangelist of atheism says, in effect, “entrust your meaning, purpose, life, and the ultimate destiny of your soul to my personal opinion.” In short, “have faith in me.” The debate between atheists and Christians has nothing to do with faith versus reason and science (every scientific discovery is consistent with the Christian worldview). Rather, it concerns faith in the God who created everything, knows everything, and has explained everything to us in Scripture, versus faith in the perspective and opinions of people who do not know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look.\r\n\r\nA Tall Story and Calling\r\nAs we have seen, atheists assume for themselves the ability and authority to know and explain ultimate realities that they cannot possibly know. They presume their own sufficiency to tell others the source, meaning, and purpose of life, including the destiny of the soul. Naturalists, of course, deny the soul’s existence, a belief they cannot know as true. Yet, they invite you to trust their opinions, including no life after death, no judgment of their works, and no heaven or hell.\r\n\r\nThey ask you to reject Christ, the only possibility of an eternal, holy, and happy life of meaning and purpose, and exchange Him for the speculations of limited and fallen people. They invite you to deny the obvious, to treat with contempt the One who created us in His image, has given us every good thing, including the ability to reason and discuss such things, and has paid an infinite price of infinite suffering to Himself that we might have forgiveness of sins and new life. They ask you to discard the knowledge of your God-given purpose, meaning, and destiny of immeasurable joy in heaven as God’s royal children in exchange for a few years to do what you want without accountability, without hope or purpose as an accident of time and chance destined for nothing, even as they ask you to trust them that you will not end up in hell for it.\r\n\r\nAtheists propose a tall story with serious consequences. And who would dare assume responsibility for the eternal destiny of others and direct them entrust their souls to such blind-faith and unwarranted opinions? Who would write books to influence millions without a certainty that their opinions are absolutely true and not leading people to a horrible fate? Their boldness is frightening and only outdone by their inability to know what they so confidently assert and ask others to embrace. By denying God’s existence they have assumed His place.\r\n\r\nA Gamble\r\nWhatever you may think of Pascal’s “Wager” as an encouragement to pursue God, one should consider the eternal consequences of the Christian versus the atheist being wrong about heaven and hell. The contrast is stark. Eternity is forever. Yet, atheists cannot possibly know that hell does not exist and they will not bail you out should they be wrong. Beer commercials notwithstanding, there are no parties in this horrible place. Why would anyone risk even a 1% chance of spending eternity there? Yet, the unreasonable deception of sin risks eternal condemnation for a few years of bread that never satisfies (Isa. 55:2), incurring the guilt of inviting others to follow this disastrous course. And as for the here and now, ask any believer if their life is better or worse since they have been born again, even with its hardships and the scorn of the world. True believers know the infinite value of Christ as compared to the temporary and shallow allurements of the world. Why, then, should anyone trust the untrustworthy prophets of nothing and despair?\r\n\r\nBe Encouraged and Be Warned\r\nTo the believer, God remains infinitely excellent and worthy of your life and worship, while the inability of atheists to know what they claim to know will boost your faith in Christ and Scripture. To the unbeliever, please reflect upon the ability of your object of faith to meet your needs and deliver on its promises, implied or otherwise. Please consider that appeals to reason and science to deny God are neither reasonable nor scientific but attempts to justify unbelief and avoid the One to whom we owe all things. Deep down all people know God exists and that He deserves our love, trust, and gratitude (Rom. 1:18ff.). And consider that those writing thick books denying the truth of Scripture, who ask you to trust their siren song concerning God and all things, cannot possibly know what they ask you to believe.\r\n\r\nAnd know that “the Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9 NAS), that He “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:1-4 NAS). And while people find comfort in numbers, book sales and popularity provide an untrustworthy barometer of truth or virtue, especially today. “The gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it” (Matt. 7:14 NAS). As for the supposed earthly benefits of presuming one’s independence from God, “what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37 NAS). And disinterest displays contempt for the One who gave us life and every good thing, to whom we owe all things. Christ suffered infinite wrath on His soul to pay the penalty for our rebellion and contempt, and he did so from an overflowing love for the unlovable. Imagine the ingratitude of ignoring such a gift.\r\n\r\nHave Faith in Christ\r\nThus, along with the saints and the Apostles, “We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin <em>to be</em> sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:20-21 NAS). May God give you grace to trust Christ, who alone gives eternal life and meets your every need, to whom belongs all glory and honor forever, Amen.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 6): \\\"Have Faith in Me\\\"','','inherit','closed','closed','','13032-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:39:59','2023-03-21 09:39:59','',13032,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14644',0,'revision','',0),(14645,1,'2023-03-21 09:40:05','2023-03-21 09:40:05','Naturalists, as do all atheists, reject the authority of God and Scripture and assume their own ability and authority to explain the nature of the universe and beyond, trusting their limited perspective as sufficient to explain ultimate realities. In the previous article we noted that naturalists claim that nothing exists except matter in space and time. Continuing our look at naturalism, we examine further why finite people, from their finite vantage point, cannot know that souls, angels, and God as Infinite Spirit do not exist.\r\n\r\nScripture clearly reveals the existence of the immaterial soul as the key element of human life, angels as spirits serving those who inherit eternal life, and God as the boundless Spirit that created and sustains everything. Each exist beyond the physical realm, possess none of its limitations, and cannot be measured. And like all things, angels and our souls depend on God as their designer, creator, and sustainer.\r\n\r\nWe know that angels and souls exist because God exists. Scripture reveals God’s infinite excellence and works, while His creation, His giving of good things, and our conscience display God’s existence and attributes. “That which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse” (Rom. 1:19-20 NAS). “He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good and gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness” (Acts 14:17 NAS). He has written His law on every heart (Rom. 2:14-15 NAS).\r\n\r\nAnd in the same way all people know that God exists, so we know the reality of the soul—by its effects. Created and sustained by God, we intuitively and immediately see the evidence, apart from complex logical or philosophical formulas. The soul appears in personality, in how we love, hate, reason, choose, create, and know good from evil, none of which are explicable or possible by mere time, chance, and matter. Like the existence of God, the reality of the soul is obvious.\r\n\r\nYet, naturalists deny this, and no argument will convince them otherwise until God opens their spiritual eyes and removes the prejudice against their debt to love and obey Him. But the question remains, how can someone limited by five senses, three or four dimensions, and limited reason (itself an evidence of the soul), possibly know that people have no spirit that gives life to the body and lives after death? Naturalists reason from the material to the immaterial and infer from the physical world that no spiritual world is possible. But, how does this follow? How does the nature of physical things make impossible things that lack and transcend physical properties? How can anyone know that reality must be limited to what they can taste, touch, see, hear and feel, or be limited to that which they can fully understand?\r\n\r\nLike a creature of the sea concluding from its limited experience that nothing exists beyond the realm of salt water, so the naturalist denies the existence of a realm beyond the “natural.” Denying the obvious, they draw conclusions from data that imply no such thing, like pointing to ice cream to deny the existence of quantum physics, or a lump of coal to deny the existence of Maine Coon cats. Children may lack the ability to understand things beyond their experience and capacity to know, but how greater looms human ignorance of the immeasurable universe and beyond. Of course, all things point to the power and genius of God as their creator and sustainer. But the atheist denies this obvious reality and attempts to draw conclusions from data that cannot support their claims. Given our profound human limitations, we cannot deny transcendent realities by pointing to material things. In the end, our meager experience and perspective reduce the best arguments against the existence of the soul to blind-faith guesses.\r\n\r\nThe same applies to angels. Some deny their reality by appealing to debunked accounts of ghosts and the paranormal. But these need not form the evidence for angels—the obvious existence of God and His testimony in Scripture suffice. Moreover, the question for every atheist applies here, how do you know what you claim to know? Angels have none of the properties of the material universe, how can a finite human being know they do not exist? How can anyone know that nothing exists beyond what they can see, touch, taste, hear, smell, or understand? Can we reasonably limit what is possible in and beyond the universe to what we can perceive or comprehend? Who can legitimately make their own understanding the standard of truth, or the measure of what is possible in and beyond the universe? To do so is neither reasonable nor scientific.\r\n\r\nAnd like denials of miracles, one must first know that God does not exist to know that angels and souls do not exist. And one must know everything in the universe and beyond, including every possibility, to know that God does not exist. Even so, our ability to think and reason about such things gives evidence of the existence of both God and our soul. Created in His image (though marred by sin), we display aspects of His power and genius.\r\n\r\nMuch more could be said, but the intent of the series is not to prove the existence of spiritual realities—the self-authenticating and divine nature of Scripture suffices for that. The narrow purpose highlights the blind-faith and unjustified assumption underlying every denial of God’s existence and works—the adequacy of limited people to explain transcendent realities. Rejecting God’s clear revelation in Scripture, creation, and their own conscience, they assume for themselves the ability to know what they cannot know.\r\n\r\nThus, the question remains for the naturalist, as for every atheist, how do they know what they claim to know? On a good day, mere mortals can remember where they put the car keys. Nonetheless, we cannot know the contents of our neighbor’s garage without having a look or the neighbor telling us. Denying God’s explanation, what qualifies mere specks in the universe to speak with authority about transcendent things? Regardless of the size of their books, the length and number of their scientific and logical formulas, or the number of people supporting their claims (none of which could exist apart from God), no argument can show that souls, angels, or God Himself do not exist. As it is, they use their God-given abilities to deny their own special status as created in God’s image, reject their would-be servants that God created to “render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation” (Heb. 1:14 NAS), and insult the Infinite Spirit that designed, created, and sustains them that they might know and love Him in happiness forever. Christ paid an infinite price for sin that they might enjoy such a gift. May God grant them grace and mercy to accept it.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 5): Naturalism (Continued)','','inherit','closed','closed','','13021-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:40:05','2023-03-21 09:40:05','',13021,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14645',0,'revision','',0),(14646,1,'2023-03-21 09:41:22','2023-03-21 09:41:22','In the previous article we highlighted the narrow but vital purpose of the series—to show that atheists assume for themselves the ability to know that which lies beyond their ability to know. Behind every argument against God’s existence lurks the unwarranted assumption of the adequacy of limited people to speak of transcendent realities. We turn now to examine yet another example of how atheists do this by a brief look at “naturalism.”\n\nNaturalism comes in many flavors, from the more absolute and dogmatic claims that nothing can possibly exist beyond matter in space and time, to agnostic versions that grant an unlikely possibility of the “supernatural,” an immaterial soul, and miracles, including the <em>possibility</em> of the God of Scripture, if such could be empirically verified. Thus, opinions vary as to what can legitimately be called “naturalism.” But one trait characterizes every version—all assume that limited people, from their tiny vantage point, can speak with authority about the ultimate nature of the universe and beyond.\n\nWe need not exhaustively understand every flavor of naturalism to see the inadequacy of the basic assumption behind them all. To keep it simple, we’ll briefly look at one example expressed by the evolutionist Richard Dawkins in his book, <em>The God Delusion</em>. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Dawkins claims that thought and emotions have a “natural” origin (as opposed to a supernatural or Divine) and defines the “philosophical naturalist” as denying the existence of anything beyond the “physical world,” including souls, God, and miracles. He admits that we have yet to understand many “natural” things, but “hopes” to eventually understand them as part of the “natural.” By the way, why would a “neutral” and “objective” scientist that claims to go where the facts lead him “hope” for such an outcome unless he was predisposed against the alternative? Perhaps his interpretations follow his predisposition? But, I digress.\n\nDawkins’ assumption of his own adequacy to speak of ultimate realities appears in every flavor of naturalism. Thus, the simple question applies to its every proponent—How do you know what you claim to know? Or, how can people that do not know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look, who have never been beyond the three or four dimensions of their existence, possibly know that nothing can possibly exist beyond the matter that can be seen, heard, tasted, touched, and smelled by their limited senses? How can every possible reality be limited to what finite people can personally experience? What validates such an all-encompassing assumption? Can infinitesimally small human beings really define what is possible in and beyond an immeasurable universe? Just how big are we compared to the cosmos, let alone what lies beyond it? It appears that the same folks exclaiming the marvels, mysteries, and immensity of the universe, and their smallness by comparison, can assume their ultimacy in the same breath.\n\nAnd, on what possible ground can naturalism be considered reasonable or scientific? Faithful scientists may limit their conclusions to what they can observe, test, and repeat. But, what justifies the leap to assertions about all of possible reality, things that have never been demonstrated by the scientific method? Naturalism stands on assumptions that ultimately rest on the unscientific and blind-faith assumption that limited people, from their tiny vantage point, can speak with authority about the ultimate nature of the universe and beyond. Indeed, to know that “naturalism” is true requires knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond.\n\nThe agnostic naturalist may grant that a “god” could exist, that people might have immaterial souls, and that miracles might be possible, but will deny their existence without “tangible” proof. Yet, no one views a beautiful painting and requires tangible proof to accept the existence of its talented painter. Some things are self-evident, intuitively and immediately known, and ridiculous to deny. Yet, that which reflects infinitely more genius, design, complexity, and beauty gives no evidence of <em>its</em> Maker? It does, of course, and all people know that it does, even while they resort to unjustified and unscientific assumptions to deny it.\n\nIn the end, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of hosts, The whole earth is full of His glory\\\" (Isa. 6:3 NAS). A glory so obvious that all people are “without excuse” for not giving God honor and thanks (Rom. 1:20-21). Yet, a glory suppressed in unrighteousness (Rom. 1:18), from a love of darkness and hatred of the light (John 3:19), and a desire for independence from the ultimate authority of God (Ps. 2:3).\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> Richard Dawkins, <em>The God Delusion</em> (New York: Houghton Mifflin Company, Mariner Books Edition, 2008), 34-5.</p>\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 4): Naturalism','','inherit','closed','closed','','13003-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:41:22','2023-03-21 09:41:22','',13003,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14646',0,'revision','',0),(14647,1,'2023-03-21 09:41:23','2023-03-21 09:41:23','As we begin the third article in the series, a brief statement of its narrow but vital purpose will prove helpful. In speaking of the human limitations of atheists, the essential truth to grasp concerns the assumption underlying every argument against God’s existence—the adequacy of limited people to speak of transcendent realities. Or, the assumed ability of humans confined to five senses, three or four dimensions, living on a speck of the universe, to speak of things infinitely beyond them. From their insufficient vantage point, atheists presume to know what they cannot possibly know. Limited people are simply unqualified to deny the existence of an unlimited God. So, if you are looking for more details of specific atheistic arguments, consider the greater purpose here to highlight the basic assumption of atheists that, when shown to be unjustified, renders worthless every argument built on it.\n\nAtheists assume the ability to know and articulate that which requires knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond. Our extreme limitations in an immeasurable universe, let alone in the face of an infinite Spirit that transcends it, form an essential and relevant truth in any discussion of God’s existence. Understandably, atheists avoid discussing this at all costs. Nonetheless, we should examine the qualifications of people that deny God’s existence. Do they have sufficient knowledge? Do they have sufficient authority? For instance, Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens are brilliant in their earthly fields of expertise, but are they more qualified than preschoolers to know what lies beyond the three or four dimensions of their existence?\n\nAdvanced expertise in philosophy and science may prove helpful, but most believers don’t have the time or need. And, how many great martyrs of the faith needed a Ph.D. to hold fast to Christ? (Of course, all believers should be students of the Bible and theology.) But, understanding the facade atheism presents as “reasonable” and “scientific” and how atheists call “facts” what they cannot possibly know strengthen our faith and can be learned easily. Intellectual challenges to our trust in Christ and Scripture lose their sting or dissipate like the morning mist when light exposes the blind-faith assumptions on which they rest.\n\nAnd as we multiply examples of how atheists assume the ability to know what they cannot possibly know, and as we learn to easily identify where and how this assumption operates, we will encounter the more important reality of God’s greatness. His infinite nature will be examined in more detail in a future series, but we will necessarily face the truth of His boundless majesty as we examine our limitations.\n\nMay we grow in our love and appreciation of God’s infinite excellence and our dependence on Him for all things, including knowledge of His person and works in Christ. And though we are nothing before Him, He so loved us that He sent His Son to purchase our eternal holiness and happiness, and did so at infinite cost to Himself, suffering infinite wrath on the cross to pay the infinite penalty for our sin. May God grant atheists His infinite gift of mercy and grace through saving faith in Christ, as He has so mercifully done for us. Now, “To the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen” (1 Tim. 1:17 NAS).\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 3): Blind-Faith Assumptions','','inherit','closed','closed','','12986-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:41:23','2023-03-21 09:41:23','',12986,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14647',0,'revision','',0),(14648,1,'2023-03-21 09:41:23','2023-03-21 09:41:23','The first article in the series showed that God’s existence cannot be legitimately denied by arguing against the possibility of biblical miracles. The God of infinite power that created and sustains all things can easily change how He organizes aspects of His universe to perform a “miracle.” Thus, to know that biblical miracles are impossible first requires knowing that God does not exist which, itself, requires knowing everything about everything in the universe and beyond, including every possibility. Thus, the same omniscience to know that God does not exist is required to know that the biblical miracles are impossible. We turn now to see how human limitations make worthless any appeal to theological mysteries to deny the existence of God.\n\nReasonable Mysteries\nFinite and fallen people necessarily face great mysteries in the face of an infinite God. For example, Scripture clearly teaches that God is a Trinity and that the Christian faith stands or falls on this marvelous truth. Yet, mystery <em>must</em> remain. Since no finite human being can fully plumb the depths of God’s infinite being, our limited perspective cannot possibly know that the Trinity is impossible. A God no higher than what finite and fallen people can fully grasp is no God, and certainly not the infinite and incomprehensible God of Scripture. And, to what higher authority can one appeal to say that God cannot be greater or beyond what we can fully comprehend? “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isa. 55:8-9 NAS).\n\nThe same applies to moral evil in a universe created by a perfectly good, all-powerful, and all-knowing God. He has clearly told us that sin has its beginning and existence in the will of created beings who, freely and without external compulsion, choose to commit sin. Yet, mystery remains and should be expected. To claim something cannot exist or be true because I cannot fully understand it or reconcile it with my limited use of logic, presumes my own understanding to be the ultimate standard of what can and cannot be true in and beyond the universe. If we could understand everything, we would be God. The same applies to all such mysteries, such as attempts to logically reconcile God’s sovereignty and foreordination with human responsibility for sin. Ironically, even the most vehement atheists will admit to great mystery surrounding the beauty, order, and immensity of the universe, including all life within it, but conveniently reject mystery when arguing against the existence of the God who created and transcends it.\n\nA Proper and Humble Approach\nTrue wisdom, then, humbly accepts that our finite perspective does not constitute the ultimate standard of truth in the universe. Quite the contrary, apart from the truth of God’s Word, our interpretations will go astray. True wisdom understands that if we lack the ability to know what lies on the other side of a wall without having a look, we cannot know what’s on the other side of the universe. And if we struggle with understanding what we can see, hear, taste, touch, and smell, how can we speak with authority about that which lies beyond the three or four dimensions of our existence? No one by pointing to the known universe can say what an infinite God that transcends the universe can be or do. Atheists, then, cannot possibly know what they claim from their observation of the world, while their arguments based on theological difficulties do far more to affirm our profound limitations before God’s immensity than challenge the authority of Scripture or the existence of God. This elephant in the room should be acknowledged before responding to any claim of an atheist.\n\nWhile we have barely scratched the surface of what could be said concerning difficult truths, the proper approach to all theological mysteries begins by admitting our infinite smallness before God’s infinite greatness. Unsolvable mysteries surround a transcendent God and will always confront fallen and finite people. Indeed, difficult and seemingly “impossible” truths taught in Scripture reveal human limitations, not problems with God and Scripture.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n<strong>© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><em>God the Reason</em></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><em>The Box</em></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></a></strong>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 2): Theological Mysteries and Difficulties','','inherit','closed','closed','','12972-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:41:23','2023-03-21 09:41:23','',12972,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14648',0,'revision','',0),(14649,1,'2023-03-21 09:41:25','2023-03-21 09:41:25','Imagine yourself sitting in the classroom on the first day of a biology course at a local college when the professor takes his place behind the podium and says, with an air of great authority, “I know everything about everything in the universe and beyond, including everything that could possibly exist.” Imagine again laughing with the other students at the professor’s sense of humor, encouraged at the prospect of an enjoyable semester. But, imagine further that the professor was dead serious, and when a fellow student raised his hand and challenged the claim, the professor responded with epithets of “flat-earther,” “backwards,” and “unscientific,” to name a few of the nicer labels. And to your surprise, the majority of the class agreed with the professor! Now, maybe you think this scenario makes for an interesting introduction but bears no resemblance to reality, that nothing like this takes place in or outside the hallowed halls of higher learning and objective inquiry. No human in their right mind would say such things, and no one in their right mind would buy the books of those who did. But, alas, many not only say it, many applaud their brilliance and give their hard-earned wages for their books.\n\nWho, then, says such things? Look no further than the shelves of your local bookstore and the countless videos and articles on the internet, not to mention text books and scholarly journals. The claim is implied in every assertion that God does not exist. “Design but no Designer,” goes the mantra. (Many avoid using the term “design” to describe reality given the obvious implications.) Yet, a mere mortal would need to know everything about everything in the universe and beyond, including every possibility, to know that God does not exist. (Of course, if God did not exist, we would not be here to discuss it, but I digress.) In other words, someone would need the omniscience of God to know that the omniscient God does not exist. (Interestingly, sin presumes the place and authority of God, but I digress again.)\n\nThe absurdity of the claim derives, in part, from our human limitations, an impediment to the infinite knowledge required to know that the God of Scripture does not exist, and one of many reasons no human argument can make the case. For instance, consider the argument that biblical miracles are impossible and thus the biblical God does not exist. But, to know that biblical miracles are impossible requires knowing that the infinite God of Scripture who created, orders, and sustains all things does not exist. And to know that the God who can easily perform such miracles does not exist requires complete knowledge of every possible thing.\n\nMoreover, to presume God does not exist to disprove biblical miracles in order to disprove God’s existence, assumes what the denial of biblical miracles is supposed to prove. To borrow a phrase of Edwards, this “is not strong arguing.” Additionally, who knows enough to say that nothing could ever have operated differently from how things operate today? Many <em>assume</em> it, but none can <em>know</em> it. Omniscience, once again, is needed. And why would people that claim the universe is founded on time and chance use arguments assuming a uniform and non-random universe? Are we really to believe that time and random chance produce constant and unchanging physical laws, and that science has proven it? Scientists have done no such thing. And, to claim eternally existing uniform laws not only contradicts a universe founded on time and chance, it ignores the question of where they came from and how they became organized and fixed in the first place, and constitutes nothing more than a wild, blind-faith guess, and that contrary to reality, logic, how everything we observe in the universe functions, and the observation, testing, and repeatability that science requires.\n\nIn the end, uniform physical laws only exist because God created, organized, and upholds the universe. Time and chance explain nothing of its design, order, and continuous operation, or the results of such uniform “laws.” Concerning miracles, the God who designed, created, and upholds the rules can bend, break, and organize them as He pleases, whenever He pleases, and for whatever purpose He pleases. As He orders and upholds every aspect of the universe at all times, He can do whatever He wants at a particular time and place, for a particular reason, in a manner we cannot comprehend. Hence, biblical miracles are quite reasonable. The best anyone denying biblical miracles can say is they have never seen one, affirming their own limitations and thereby affirming their inability to legitimately deny the existence of the God who performs them. And to imply, “the only things possible are things I have personally experienced” appears no more reasonable than the implied claim of omniscience.\n\nLastly, many of the same people that deny the possibility of the biblical miracles believe the entire universe, including life and everything in it, came from an explosion of compressed, non-living matter the size of a golf ball or pin head. The result somehow organized itself into everyone and everything. And Jonah in a whale is impossible? For some, it seems, anything is possible, except the God of Scripture. In fact, scientists spend millions of dollars looking for extra-terrestrials and are quick to see marks of their existence in space noise and rock formations on planets but see no evidence for God in the exquisite design and beauty of the immeasurable life forms on earth. The amazing design and order in all things, from atoms and molecules to the expanse of the cosmos, give abundant evidence for—nothing. We should not be surprised at this illogical and irrational double-standard, given that imaginary space aliens make no authoritative claims on our life or call us to repent of sin. And neither does a God conveniently defined out of existence, despite the obvious evidence to the contrary and the absurdity of the alternatives. God has clearly told us the truth of the matter, and that for our own good: “The fool has said in his heart, \\\"There is no God\\\" (Ps. 14:1 NAS). “Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse” (Rom. 1:20 NAS). Perhaps we should listen.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 1): Biblical Miracles','','inherit','closed','closed','','12958-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:41:25','2023-03-21 09:41:25','',12958,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14649',0,'revision','',0),(14650,1,'2023-03-21 09:41:27','2023-03-21 09:41:27','An atheist and agnostic walk into a bakery and observe a large display of baked goods. The atheist says, “A baker does not exist, science and reason prove that a baker does not exist, and no amount of blind faith will make a baker exist.” The agnostic, munching on a cookie sample, says, “No one can know that a baker exists, and no evidence exists for one.”\n\nThey walk into a store and observe a display of smart phones. The atheist says, “No one designed these, and people who say their design implies a designer deny science and discourage the pursuit of knowledge.” The agnostic, playing a video game, says, “Perhaps a designer of phones exists, but I have never seen one and science cannot prove they exist.”\n\nThey walk into an art museum and observe a beautiful painting. The atheist says, “People who claim a skillful artist must have created this exquisite portrait are naive, unreasonable, and unscientific. Beautiful art does not imply an artist.” The agnostic says, “Perhaps an artist exists, but the majority of scientists don’t believe in one.”\n\nAbsurd, you say? Yes, even ridiculous, but infinitely less so than denials of God in the midst of the comprehensive, conspicuous, compelling, and convincing evidence of His power and genius in every created thing.\n<blockquote>The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools (Romans 1:18-22 NAS).</blockquote>\nPeople reject the obvious when they dislike the implications. People believe the absurd when they despise the alternative. People bow their reason to their fallen desires when they refuse to bow the knee to the excellence and authority of the One to whom we owe all love, honor and obedience. And, people know better.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','People Know Better','','inherit','closed','closed','','12944-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:41:27','2023-03-21 09:41:27','',12944,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14650',0,'revision','',0),(14651,1,'2023-03-21 09:41:52','2023-03-21 09:41:52','','naturalism-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','naturalism-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:41:52','2023-03-21 09:41:52','',13003,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/naturalism-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14652,1,'2023-03-21 09:42:07','2023-03-21 09:42:07','','theological-mysteries-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','theological-mysteries-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:42:07','2023-03-21 09:42:07','',12986,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/theological-mysteries-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14653,1,'2023-03-21 09:42:12','2023-03-21 09:42:12','','blind-faith-assumptions-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','blind-faith-assumptions-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:42:12','2023-03-21 09:42:12','',12986,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/blind-faith-assumptions-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14654,1,'2023-03-21 09:42:17','2023-03-21 09:42:17','As we begin the third article in the series, a brief statement of its narrow but vital purpose will prove helpful. In speaking of the human limitations of atheists, the essential truth to grasp concerns the assumption underlying every argument against God’s existence—the adequacy of limited people to speak of transcendent realities. Or, the assumed ability of humans confined to five senses, three or four dimensions, living on a speck of the universe, to speak of things infinitely beyond them. From their insufficient vantage point, atheists presume to know what they cannot possibly know. Limited people are simply unqualified to deny the existence of an unlimited God. So, if you are looking for more details of specific atheistic arguments, consider the greater purpose here to highlight the basic assumption of atheists that, when shown to be unjustified, renders worthless every argument built on it.\r\n\r\nAtheists assume the ability to know and articulate that which requires knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond. Our extreme limitations in an immeasurable universe, let alone in the face of an infinite Spirit that transcends it, form an essential and relevant truth in any discussion of God’s existence. Understandably, atheists avoid discussing this at all costs. Nonetheless, we should examine the qualifications of people that deny God’s existence. Do they have sufficient knowledge? Do they have sufficient authority? For instance, Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens are brilliant in their earthly fields of expertise, but are they more qualified than preschoolers to know what lies beyond the three or four dimensions of their existence?\r\n\r\nAdvanced expertise in philosophy and science may prove helpful, but most believers don’t have the time or need. And, how many great martyrs of the faith needed a Ph.D. to hold fast to Christ? (Of course, all believers should be students of the Bible and theology.) But, understanding the facade atheism presents as “reasonable” and “scientific” and how atheists call “facts” what they cannot possibly know strengthen our faith and can be learned easily. Intellectual challenges to our trust in Christ and Scripture lose their sting or dissipate like the morning mist when light exposes the blind-faith assumptions on which they rest.\r\n\r\nAnd as we multiply examples of how atheists assume the ability to know what they cannot possibly know, and as we learn to easily identify where and how this assumption operates, we will encounter the more important reality of God’s greatness. His infinite nature will be examined in more detail in a future series, but we will necessarily face the truth of His boundless majesty as we examine our limitations.\r\n\r\nMay we grow in our love and appreciation of God’s infinite excellence and our dependence on Him for all things, including knowledge of His person and works in Christ. And though we are nothing before Him, He so loved us that He sent His Son to purchase our eternal holiness and happiness, and did so at infinite cost to Himself, suffering infinite wrath on the cross to pay the infinite penalty for our sin. May God grant atheists His infinite gift of mercy and grace through saving faith in Christ, as He has so mercifully done for us. Now, “To the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen” (1 Tim. 1:17 NAS).\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 3): Blind-Faith Assumptions','','inherit','closed','closed','','12986-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:42:17','2023-03-21 09:42:17','',12986,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14654',0,'revision','',0),(14655,1,'2023-03-21 09:42:36','2023-03-21 09:42:36','The first article in the series showed that God’s existence cannot be legitimately denied by arguing against the possibility of biblical miracles. The God of infinite power that created and sustains all things can easily change how He organizes aspects of His universe to perform a “miracle.” Thus, to know that biblical miracles are impossible first requires knowing that God does not exist which, itself, requires knowing everything about everything in the universe and beyond, including every possibility. Thus, the same omniscience to know that God does not exist is required to know that the biblical miracles are impossible. We turn now to see how human limitations make worthless any appeal to theological mysteries to deny the existence of God.\r\n\r\nReasonable Mysteries\r\nFinite and fallen people necessarily face great mysteries in the face of an infinite God. For example, Scripture clearly teaches that God is a Trinity and that the Christian faith stands or falls on this marvelous truth. Yet, mystery <em>must</em> remain. Since no finite human being can fully plumb the depths of God’s infinite being, our limited perspective cannot possibly know that the Trinity is impossible. A God no higher than what finite and fallen people can fully grasp is no God, and certainly not the infinite and incomprehensible God of Scripture. And, to what higher authority can one appeal to say that God cannot be greater or beyond what we can fully comprehend? “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isa. 55:8-9 NAS).\r\n\r\nThe same applies to moral evil in a universe created by a perfectly good, all-powerful, and all-knowing God. He has clearly told us that sin has its beginning and existence in the will of created beings who, freely and without external compulsion, choose to commit sin. Yet, mystery remains and should be expected. To claim something cannot exist or be true because I cannot fully understand it or reconcile it with my limited use of logic, presumes my own understanding to be the ultimate standard of what can and cannot be true in and beyond the universe. If we could understand everything, we would be God. The same applies to all such mysteries, such as attempts to logically reconcile God’s sovereignty and foreordination with human responsibility for sin. Ironically, even the most vehement atheists will admit to great mystery surrounding the beauty, order, and immensity of the universe, including all life within it, but conveniently reject mystery when arguing against the existence of the God who created and transcends it.\r\n\r\nA Proper and Humble Approach\r\nTrue wisdom, then, humbly accepts that our finite perspective does not constitute the ultimate standard of truth in the universe. Quite the contrary, apart from the truth of God’s Word, our interpretations will go astray. True wisdom understands that if we lack the ability to know what lies on the other side of a wall without having a look, we cannot know what’s on the other side of the universe. And if we struggle with understanding what we can see, hear, taste, touch, and smell, how can we speak with authority about that which lies beyond the three or four dimensions of our existence? No one by pointing to the known universe can say what an infinite God that transcends the universe can be or do. Atheists, then, cannot possibly know what they claim from their observation of the world, while their arguments based on theological difficulties do far more to affirm our profound limitations before God’s immensity than challenge the authority of Scripture or the existence of God. This elephant in the room should be acknowledged before responding to any claim of an atheist.\r\n\r\nWhile we have barely scratched the surface of what could be said concerning difficult truths, the proper approach to all theological mysteries begins by admitting our infinite smallness before God’s infinite greatness. Unsolvable mysteries surround a transcendent God and will always confront fallen and finite people. Indeed, difficult and seemingly “impossible” truths taught in Scripture reveal human limitations, not problems with God and Scripture.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<strong>© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><em>God the Reason</em></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><em>The Box</em></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></a></strong>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 2): Theological Mysteries and Difficulties','','inherit','closed','closed','','12972-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:42:36','2023-03-21 09:42:36','',12972,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14655',0,'revision','',0),(14656,1,'2023-03-21 09:42:49','2023-03-21 09:42:49','','man-assumes-he-is-god-biblical-miracles-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','man-assumes-he-is-god-biblical-miracles-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:42:49','2023-03-21 09:42:49','',12958,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/man-assumes-he-is-god-biblical-miracles-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14657,1,'2023-03-21 09:43:02','2023-03-21 09:43:02','','chef-people-know-better-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','chef-people-know-better-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:43:02','2023-03-21 09:43:02','',12944,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/chef-people-know-better-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14658,1,'2023-03-21 09:43:06','2023-03-21 09:43:06','In the previous article we highlighted the narrow but vital purpose of the series—to show that atheists assume for themselves the ability to know that which lies beyond their ability to know. Behind every argument against God’s existence lurks the unwarranted assumption of the adequacy of limited people to speak of transcendent realities. We turn now to examine yet another example of how atheists do this by a brief look at “naturalism.”\r\n\r\nNaturalism comes in many flavors, from the more absolute and dogmatic claims that nothing can possibly exist beyond matter in space and time, to agnostic versions that grant an unlikely possibility of the “supernatural,” an immaterial soul, and miracles, including the <em>possibility</em> of the God of Scripture, if such could be empirically verified. Thus, opinions vary as to what can legitimately be called “naturalism.” But one trait characterizes every version—all assume that limited people, from their tiny vantage point, can speak with authority about the ultimate nature of the universe and beyond.\r\n\r\nWe need not exhaustively understand every flavor of naturalism to see the inadequacy of the basic assumption behind them all. To keep it simple, we’ll briefly look at one example expressed by the evolutionist Richard Dawkins in his book, <em>The God Delusion</em>. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Dawkins claims that thought and emotions have a “natural” origin (as opposed to a supernatural or Divine) and defines the “philosophical naturalist” as denying the existence of anything beyond the “physical world,” including souls, God, and miracles. He admits that we have yet to understand many “natural” things, but “hopes” to eventually understand them as part of the “natural.” By the way, why would a “neutral” and “objective” scientist that claims to go where the facts lead him “hope” for such an outcome unless he was predisposed against the alternative? Perhaps his interpretations follow his predisposition? But, I digress.\r\n\r\nDawkins’ assumption of his own adequacy to speak of ultimate realities appears in every flavor of naturalism. Thus, the simple question applies to its every proponent—How do you know what you claim to know? Or, how can people that do not know the contents of their neighbor’s garage without having a look, who have never been beyond the three or four dimensions of their existence, possibly know that nothing can possibly exist beyond the matter that can be seen, heard, tasted, touched, and smelled by their limited senses? How can every possible reality be limited to what finite people can personally experience? What validates such an all-encompassing assumption? Can infinitesimally small human beings really define what is possible in and beyond an immeasurable universe? Just how big are we compared to the cosmos, let alone what lies beyond it? It appears that the same folks exclaiming the marvels, mysteries, and immensity of the universe, and their smallness by comparison, can assume their ultimacy in the same breath.\r\n\r\nAnd, on what possible ground can naturalism be considered reasonable or scientific? Faithful scientists may limit their conclusions to what they can observe, test, and repeat. But, what justifies the leap to assertions about all of possible reality, things that have never been demonstrated by the scientific method? Naturalism stands on assumptions that ultimately rest on the unscientific and blind-faith assumption that limited people, from their tiny vantage point, can speak with authority about the ultimate nature of the universe and beyond. Indeed, to know that “naturalism” is true requires knowledge of everything in the universe and beyond.\r\n\r\nThe agnostic naturalist may grant that a “god” could exist, that people might have immaterial souls, and that miracles might be possible, but will deny their existence without “tangible” proof. Yet, no one views a beautiful painting and requires tangible proof to accept the existence of its talented painter. Some things are self-evident, intuitively and immediately known, and ridiculous to deny. Yet, that which reflects infinitely more genius, design, complexity, and beauty gives no evidence of <em>its</em> Maker? It does, of course, and all people know that it does, even while they resort to unjustified and unscientific assumptions to deny it.\r\n\r\nIn the end, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD of hosts, The whole earth is full of His glory\\\" (Isa. 6:3 NAS). A glory so obvious that all people are “without excuse” for not giving God honor and thanks (Rom. 1:20-21). Yet, a glory suppressed in unrighteousness (Rom. 1:18), from a love of darkness and hatred of the light (John 3:19), and a desire for independence from the ultimate authority of God (Ps. 2:3).\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> Richard Dawkins, <em>The God Delusion</em> (New York: Houghton Mifflin Company, Mariner Books Edition, 2008), 34-5.</p>\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 4): Naturalism','','inherit','closed','closed','','13003-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:43:06','2023-03-21 09:43:06','',13003,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14658',0,'revision','',0),(14659,1,'2023-03-21 09:43:14','2023-03-21 09:43:14','Imagine yourself sitting in the classroom on the first day of a biology course at a local college when the professor takes his place behind the podium and says, with an air of great authority, “I know everything about everything in the universe and beyond, including everything that could possibly exist.” Imagine again laughing with the other students at the professor’s sense of humor, encouraged at the prospect of an enjoyable semester. But, imagine further that the professor was dead serious, and when a fellow student raised his hand and challenged the claim, the professor responded with epithets of “flat-earther,” “backwards,” and “unscientific,” to name a few of the nicer labels. And to your surprise, the majority of the class agreed with the professor! Now, maybe you think this scenario makes for an interesting introduction but bears no resemblance to reality, that nothing like this takes place in or outside the hallowed halls of higher learning and objective inquiry. No human in their right mind would say such things, and no one in their right mind would buy the books of those who did. But, alas, many not only say it, many applaud their brilliance and give their hard-earned wages for their books.\r\n\r\nWho, then, says such things? Look no further than the shelves of your local bookstore and the countless videos and articles on the internet, not to mention text books and scholarly journals. The claim is implied in every assertion that God does not exist. “Design but no Designer,” goes the mantra. (Many avoid using the term “design” to describe reality given the obvious implications.) Yet, a mere mortal would need to know everything about everything in the universe and beyond, including every possibility, to know that God does not exist. (Of course, if God did not exist, we would not be here to discuss it, but I digress.) In other words, someone would need the omniscience of God to know that the omniscient God does not exist. (Interestingly, sin presumes the place and authority of God, but I digress again.)\r\n\r\nThe absurdity of the claim derives, in part, from our human limitations, an impediment to the infinite knowledge required to know that the God of Scripture does not exist, and one of many reasons no human argument can make the case. For instance, consider the argument that biblical miracles are impossible and thus the biblical God does not exist. But, to know that biblical miracles are impossible requires knowing that the infinite God of Scripture who created, orders, and sustains all things does not exist. And to know that the God who can easily perform such miracles does not exist requires complete knowledge of every possible thing.\r\n\r\nMoreover, to presume God does not exist to disprove biblical miracles in order to disprove God’s existence, assumes what the denial of biblical miracles is supposed to prove. To borrow a phrase of Edwards, this “is not strong arguing.” Additionally, who knows enough to say that nothing could ever have operated differently from how things operate today? Many <em>assume</em> it, but none can <em>know</em> it. Omniscience, once again, is needed. And why would people that claim the universe is founded on time and chance use arguments assuming a uniform and non-random universe? Are we really to believe that time and random chance produce constant and unchanging physical laws, and that science has proven it? Scientists have done no such thing. And, to claim eternally existing uniform laws not only contradicts a universe founded on time and chance, it ignores the question of where they came from and how they became organized and fixed in the first place, and constitutes nothing more than a wild, blind-faith guess, and that contrary to reality, logic, how everything we observe in the universe functions, and the observation, testing, and repeatability that science requires.\r\n\r\nIn the end, uniform physical laws only exist because God created, organized, and upholds the universe. Time and chance explain nothing of its design, order, and continuous operation, or the results of such uniform “laws.” Concerning miracles, the God who designed, created, and upholds the rules can bend, break, and organize them as He pleases, whenever He pleases, and for whatever purpose He pleases. As He orders and upholds every aspect of the universe at all times, He can do whatever He wants at a particular time and place, for a particular reason, in a manner we cannot comprehend. Hence, biblical miracles are quite reasonable. The best anyone denying biblical miracles can say is they have never seen one, affirming their own limitations and thereby affirming their inability to legitimately deny the existence of the God who performs them. And to imply, “the only things possible are things I have personally experienced” appears no more reasonable than the implied claim of omniscience.\r\n\r\nLastly, many of the same people that deny the possibility of the biblical miracles believe the entire universe, including life and everything in it, came from an explosion of compressed, non-living matter the size of a golf ball or pin head. The result somehow organized itself into everyone and everything. And Jonah in a whale is impossible? For some, it seems, anything is possible, except the God of Scripture. In fact, scientists spend millions of dollars looking for extra-terrestrials and are quick to see marks of their existence in space noise and rock formations on planets but see no evidence for God in the exquisite design and beauty of the immeasurable life forms on earth. The amazing design and order in all things, from atoms and molecules to the expanse of the cosmos, give abundant evidence for—nothing. We should not be surprised at this illogical and irrational double-standard, given that imaginary space aliens make no authoritative claims on our life or call us to repent of sin. And neither does a God conveniently defined out of existence, despite the obvious evidence to the contrary and the absurdity of the alternatives. God has clearly told us the truth of the matter, and that for our own good: “The fool has said in his heart, \\\"There is no God\\\" (Ps. 14:1 NAS). “Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse” (Rom. 1:20 NAS). Perhaps we should listen.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','The Human Limitations of Unreasonable Atheism (Part 1): Biblical Miracles','','inherit','closed','closed','','12958-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:43:14','2023-03-21 09:43:14','',12958,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14659',0,'revision','',0),(14660,1,'2023-03-21 09:43:19','2023-03-21 09:43:19','An atheist and agnostic walk into a bakery and observe a large display of baked goods. The atheist says, “A baker does not exist, science and reason prove that a baker does not exist, and no amount of blind faith will make a baker exist.” The agnostic, munching on a cookie sample, says, “No one can know that a baker exists, and no evidence exists for one.”\r\n\r\nThey walk into a store and observe a display of smart phones. The atheist says, “No one designed these, and people who say their design implies a designer deny science and discourage the pursuit of knowledge.” The agnostic, playing a video game, says, “Perhaps a designer of phones exists, but I have never seen one and science cannot prove they exist.”\r\n\r\nThey walk into an art museum and observe a beautiful painting. The atheist says, “People who claim a skillful artist must have created this exquisite portrait are naive, unreasonable, and unscientific. Beautiful art does not imply an artist.” The agnostic says, “Perhaps an artist exists, but the majority of scientists don’t believe in one.”\r\n\r\nAbsurd, you say? Yes, even ridiculous, but infinitely less so than denials of God in the midst of the comprehensive, conspicuous, compelling, and convincing evidence of His power and genius in every created thing.\r\n<blockquote>The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools (Romans 1:18-22 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nPeople reject the obvious when they dislike the implications. People believe the absurd when they despise the alternative. People bow their reason to their fallen desires when they refuse to bow the knee to the excellence and authority of the One to whom we owe all love, honor and obedience. And, people know better.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','People Know Better','','inherit','closed','closed','','12944-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:43:19','2023-03-21 09:43:19','',12944,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14660',0,'revision','',0),(14661,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:03','2023-03-21 09:45:03','We come to the last article in the series examining Edwards’ arguments in his classic treatise, <em>Religious Affections</em>, and a second possible objection to Christian practice as the chief sign of true religious affections: Does the principle of works as evidence of God’s grace in the heart contradict the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone? Does it elevate works at the cost of “the glory of free grace”? <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nCause or Effect\nEdwards views the objection as “altogether without reason.” Scripture teaches that works as the <em>price</em> to purchase God’s favor negates the free grace of salvation, not works as the <em>evidence</em> of God’s favor. “Surely the beggar’s looking on the money he has in his hands, as a sign of the kindness of him who gave it to him, is in no respect inconsistent with the freeness of that kindness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> The Scriptural doctrine of justification by faith recognizes our works as unacceptable to God as payment for sin and unable to move God to give us eternal life, but never denies their importance as the fruit of God’s grace. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nNew life in Christ necessarily produces a changed life, but to claim that a necessary <em>result</em> of salvation must therefore be its <em>cause</em> is illogical and unbiblical. Christian works follow but never merit salvation—Christ alone satisfied the sinless perfection and penalty required by God’s justice for eternal life. Even faith does not justify as a meritorious work, but as that which unites us to Christ who earned salvation for us. God justifies the ungodly by the imputation of Christ’s perfect righteousness to those united to Him by faith. In Christ we have every benefit of His life, death, and resurrection. In Christ we have justification and new life. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\n\nEvery Grace of God\nIf Christian practice as a vital sign of God’s grace denies salvation by free grace, then every fruit of God’s work in the heart denies salvation by free grace. For instance, love and loyalty to God; joy, humility, and the desire to exalt and give all glory to Christ, each give important evidence of new life.\n<blockquote>To make light of works because we are not justified by works, is the same thing in effect as to make light of all religion, all grace and holiness, yea, true evangelical holiness, and all gracious experience; for all is included, when the Scripture says, we are not justified by works; for by works in this case, is meant all our own righteousness, religion, or holiness, and every thing that is in us, all the good we do, and all the good which we are conscious of, all external acts, and all internal acts and exercises of grace, and all experiences, and all those holy and heavenly things wherein the life and power and the very essence of religion do consist, all those great things which Christ and His apostles mainly insisted on in their preaching, and endeavoured to promote, as of the greatest consequence in the hearts and lives of men, and all good dispositions, exercise and qualification of every kind whatsoever; and even faith itself, considered as part of our holiness. We are justified by none of these things; and if we were, we should, in a Scripture sense, be justified by works. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></blockquote>\nYet, Scripture portrays these things as essential, as evidence of true faith and new life in Christ. Again, if good works cannot be an inevitable fruit of saving faith and a vital and necessary part of the Christian life without compromising justification by faith alone, then neither can any fruit of God saving and sanctifying us. Anything we have or do to merit the benefits of Christ’s saving work contradicts free grace—godly practice as the fruit and evidence of saving faith does not. Thus, Abraham’s works justified or gave evidence of his faith as true, even as he was justified by grace through faith alone. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\n\nScripture’s Testimony\nScripture often speaks of holy practice and free grace in the same breath.\n<blockquote>Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Remove the evil of your deeds from My sight. Cease to do evil, Learn to do good; Seek justice, Reprove the ruthless; Defend the orphan, Plead for the widow. ‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ Says the LORD, ‘Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool\\\' (Isa. 1:16-18 NAS).</blockquote>\n“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Rev 3:20-21 NAS). “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son” (Rev 21:6-7 NAS). “Blessed <em>are</em> they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Rev. 22:14).\n\nFor Edwards, we should no more reject “works” as vital to the Christian life than we should reject “<em>holiness, godliness, grace</em>…and even <em>faith</em> itself.” To make any of these meritorious or a basis of our justification contradicts free grace, but all serve as evidence of God’s work in the heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\n\nGod’s Way Is the Right Way\nAs finite and fallible, we cannot see into the depths of another man’s soul, and our judgments cannot be fully trusted. Moreover, the natural and supernatural influences on human affections are so “innumerable and unsearchable” that “no philosophy or experience will ever be sufficient to guide us safely through this labyrinth and maze” without the direction God provides in Scripture. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\n\nGod knows everything. He knows every heart. He knows what is best for us, what allowances should be made for the differences between people, how natural affections can imitate and intermingle with grace, how our imagination influences our affections, and how our thoughts and imagination can mix with the Spirit’s work of illumination. Knowing another’s heart is a complex and messy business, and we are easily deceived. But God has given us the best rules to make sense of the confusion.\n\nWe create big problems when we de-emphasize or second-guess that which Scripture calls evidence of true faith in Christ, under the mistaken belief that stressing such things nullifies grace. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Wisdom examines others and ourselves by God’s standards, not our own. And God’s way brings blessing, including the conviction of deceived people professing Christ who have yet to truly know Him. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> It promotes godly works over excessive boasting about our experiences, removing barriers to faith as we speak and demonstrate the truth of the Gospel, rather than hardening unbelief by hypocritical displays of talk without deeds. In this way, the light of Christ in believers “would so shine before men, that others, seeing their good works, would glorify their Father which is in heaven.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> To Him be glory forever, Amen.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 375: Yale, 455.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 376; Yale, 455.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> New life always accompanies justification, but new life never justifies. Justification of sinners is solely by the imputation of Christ’s perfect righteousness, the only righteousness that satisfies God’s unchanging justice and requirement for eternal life. For an in-depth exposition of Edwards’ understanding of the merit of Christ’s righteousness as the sole basis of salvation, see Biehl, <em>The Infinite Merit of Christ: The Glory of Christ’s Obedience in the Theology of Jonathan Edwards</em>.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 377; Yale, 456-7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 378; Yale, 457. No contradiction exists between the reality of Abraham’s faith as displayed by the works it produced, as presented in James 2:18-26, and Abraham as justified before God by faith alone, apart from works, as explained in Romans 4. In any event, God does not contradict Himself, though our dim and limited perspective often hinders our understanding.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 380; Yale, 459.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 380-1; Yale, 459.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 380; Yale, 459.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 381; Yale, 460-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 382; Yale, 461. Cf. Matt. 5:16.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 33): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (7)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12925-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:03','2023-03-21 09:45:03','',12925,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14661',0,'revision','',0),(14662,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:04','2023-03-21 09:45:04','As we come to the last two articles in our study of <em>Religious Affections</em>, Edwards addresses two possible objections to the doctrine that Christian practice is the chief of all signs of saving grace. The first objection asserts that Christian works as the main sign of true religious affections contradicts Edwards’ emphasis throughout <em>Affections</em> that the greatest evidence of God’s saving work in a believer involves the inward experience of the heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nHeart and Practice Are Inseparable\nOn the one hand, those professing faith in Christ should “judge their state chiefly by their inward experience” because “spiritual experiences are the main evidences of true grace.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> But, this does not deny that Christian practice forms the chief evidence of grace in the heart. Rather, the godly motives behind our actions give evidence to our conscience of the Holy Spirit’s work in the soul.\n\nFor Edwards, conduct cannot be separated and distinguished from inward experience. Since our outward actions are directed by and determined by the will, they should be seen as “secondary” as “dependent” on “the acts of the soul.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> And while some inward experiences involve no action, such as meditation on a passage of Scripture, every action involves the heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Thus, inward operations of the soul are no less heart-felt Christian experience because they generate outward action. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nHoly Practice and Knowing God\nThough Christianity is foremost a relationship of the heart between God and man, holy practice forms the most important and distinguishing part of this inward spiritual experience. “‘Did not your father eat and drink, and do justice and righteousness? Then it was well with him. He pled the cause of the afflicted and needy; Then it was well. Is not that what it means to know Me?’ Declares the LORD” (Jer. 22:15-16 NAS). “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers” (Rom. 1:9). “For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world” (2 Cor. 1:12 NAS). “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments” (1 John 5:3).\n<blockquote>But in all <em>things</em> approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left (2 Cor 6:4-7).</blockquote>\n“And for this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me” (Col. 1:29-2:1 NAS). Inward love to God appears outwardly in our actions and pursuits.\n\nReligion of the Heart\nTrue Christian practice, then, involves the experience and the heart. Indeed, according to Edwards, religious activity apart from new life in Christ is “good for nothing,” while religious experience with no change in behavior is “worse than nothing.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> True faith in Christ involves the affections, while the holy actions that flow from them display their holy nature. The strength of affections between two friends is best seen when they “carry them through fire and water for each other.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\n\nTrials and the Witness of the Spirit\nThe Holy Spirit dwells in us as a “pledge,” giving inward witness that we are sons of God (2 Cor. 5:5 NAS). “This seal of the Spirit is the highest kind of evidence of the saints’ adoption that ever they obtain.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> At the same time, the Spirit’s witness displays itself most visibly in our obedience under severe difficulties. The suffering church and “the full assurance and unspeakable joys of many of the martyrs” give abundant testimony “that Christ commonly gives, by His Spirit, the greatest and most joyful evidences to His saints of their sonship in those effectual exercises of grace under trials.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> “If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you” (1 Pet. 4:14 NAS).\n<blockquote>For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, ‘Abba! Father!’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with <em>Him</em> in order that we may also be glorified with <em>Him</em>. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us (Rom. 8:15-18 NAS).</blockquote>\n“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give <em>some</em> of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it” (Rev. 2:17 NAS)\n\nNext up: Do Christian works as the chief evidence of God’s grace in the heart contradict the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone?\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 370-5; Yale, 450-5.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 370; Yale, 450.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 371; Yale, 450.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 371; Yale, 450-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 371; Yale, 450.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 373; Yale, 452.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 373-4; Yale, 453.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 374; Yale, 454.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 374-5; Yale, 454.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 32): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (6)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12911-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:04','2023-03-21 09:45:04','',12911,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14662',0,'revision','',0),(14663,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:06','2023-03-21 09:45:06','In the previous article we saw how Christian works provide the greatest evidence of saving faith to our own conscience. We turn now to see that holy practice “confirms and crowns all other signs of godliness,” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> that it forms the proper and best evidence of every grace the Holy Spirit gives to the believer in Christ. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\n\nTrue and Saving Knowledge of God\nAs we have already seen, obedience to God gives evidence of a saving knowledge of God. “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him” (1 John 2:3-4 NAS). Indeed, knowledge of God without love and honor to God brings God’s judgment (Rom. 1:18ff.)\n\nRepentance\nChristian works of obedience accompany and give evidence of true repentance, faith in Christ, and belief and embracing of the truth. Believers are to “bring forth fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matt. 3:8 NAS). In Paul’s appeal to King Agrippa, he recounts his call to Jews and Gentiles to “repent and turn to God, performing deeds appropriate to repentance” (Acts 26:20 NAS).\n\nSaving Faith and Belief of the Truth\nIn Romans 4, Abraham’s justification is by faith, alone, apart from human works. In James 2, Abraham’s faith is shown to be true. Edwards understood that salvation includes justification and new life, and that believers never have one without the other.\n\nChrist, alone, met the requirements of God’s justice for eternal life by His righteous obedience and death on the cross to pay the penalty for our sin. Saving faith unites to Christ, in Whom we are justified by His righteousness imputed to us, and given new life by His righteousness imparted as the Holy Spirit indwells us and displays His nature in and through us. Only Christ’s <em>imputed</em> righteousness justifies; His <em>imparted</em> righteousness justifies no one, but shows the reality of justification by the works of new life.\n\nTrue faith, then, believes and lives the truth: “For I was very glad when brethren came and bore witness to your truth, <em>that is</em>, how you are walking in truth” (3 John 1:3 NAS).\n<blockquote>Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected; and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, ‘And Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness,’ and he was called the friend of God. You see that a man is justified by works, and not by faith alone (James 2:21-24 NAS).</blockquote>\nAbraham’s best works were tainted and could never merit eternal life according to God’s standard of justice. Abraham’s faith, however, was justified as genuine by his works. Anyone can say, “I believe.” But, the faith that merely knows facts the way demons know God, does not unite to Christ for justification and new life. This “dead” faith lacks the ¬love for Christ’s holy character, trust in Christ for salvation, and obedience from love and gratitude.\n\nThe Will to Forsake All for Christ\nMany proclaim a heart to forsake all for Christ. But, like Matthew, a willing heart is seen by what it does. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> When called by Christ, “he left all, rose up, and followed him” (Luke 5:28).\n\nWhen the rich young ruler intimated to Christ his willingness to do whatever it takes to inherit eternal life, he displayed his true heart when “he went away grieved” when Christ told him to sell all, “for he was one who owned much property” (Matt. 19:22 NAS). Perhaps he could spare a few camels, a goat, or beachfront property on the Galilee shore, but he was unwilling to forsake all for Christ.\n\nTrust in Christ\nFurther, willingness to suffer for Christ reveals trust in Christ. “And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found his life shall lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake shall find it” (Matt. 10:38-39 NAS). “For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day” (2 Tim. 1:12 NAS).\n\nMoses, by faith, “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh\\\'s daughter; choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God, than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin; considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward (Heb. 11:24-26 NAS). The faithful of Hebrews 11 includes many who were tortured, mocked, imprisoned, and killed. “They went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated (<em>men</em> of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground” (Heb. 11:37-38 NAS). They ventured all for the object of their faith and hope.\n\nLove to God and Man\nAs seen throughout <em>Religious Affections</em>, the love for the excellence of God’s perfections, perfections made lovely by the beauty of God’s holiness, forms the ultimate ground of all gracious or godly affections. A true love for God displays itself in our obedience, in acts of love for God and others.\n\nHumility and a True Fear of God\nHumility before God displays animates our actions toward God and others. “He hath shewed thee, O man, what <em>is</em> good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Mic. 6:8).\n\nGod praised Job for his reverent life. “For there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from evil” (Job 1:8 NAS). Though not without hiccups, Job “held fast his integrity,” despite his sufferings. And so should we, “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil” (Prov. 3:7).\n\nTrue Thankfulness\nActs of gratitude display a heart of gratitude. “What shall I render to the LORD for all His benefits toward me?” (Ps. 116:12 NAS). “Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High” (Ps. 50:14). “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders <em>his way aright</em> I shall show the salvation of God” (Ps. 50:23 NAS).\n\nGracious Longing and Hope\nHoly desires and hope “are not idle wishes,” but active in pursuing God. “O God, Thou art my God; I shall seek Thee earnestly; My soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee, in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Ps. 63:1 NAS). “And everyone who has this hope <em>fixed</em> on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3 NAS). “We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention <em>of you</em> in our prayers; constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thess. 1:2-3 NAS).\n\nA Holy Joy\nThe heart that loves the beauty of God’s moral excellence pursues a life of holiness in obedience to God. “I have inherited Thy testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform Thy statutes forever, <em>even</em> to the end…. I have rejoiced in the way of Thy testimonies, as much as in all riches” (Ps. 119:111-12, 14 NAS). Love “does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth” (1 Cor. 13:6 NAS).\n\nChristian Courage and Endurance\n“The trial of a good soldier is not in his chimney corner, but in the field of battle.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Thus, the Apostle Paul exhorts Timothy to join him in suffering hardship “as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:3). The courage and endurance of soldiers in Christ’s service appear in action and perseverance.\n\nConclusion\nWhen people proclaim their great and wonderful experiences and extraordinary episodes of love and joy, “they are no further to be regarded than they have influence on their practice.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> Talk is easy. Like Peter before Pentecost, anyone can proclaim their love, loyalty, and willingness to suffer and die for Christ. But, new life in Christ makes them a reality.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 364; Yale, 444.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 364-370; Yale, 444-449.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 366; Yale, 446.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 370; Yale, 449.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">, </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">, </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">, and </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 31): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (5)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12896-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:06','2023-03-21 09:45:06','',12896,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14663',0,'revision','',0),(14664,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:06','2023-03-21 09:45:06','In our study of Edwards’ analysis of Christian practice, we now turn from how Christian works give evidence <em>to others</em> of a saving work of the Holy Spirit, to how the same works form the greatest evidence of saving faith <em>to our own conscience.</em>\n\nScripture and Assurance to Our Conscience\nThe Bible presents Christian works as “a distinguishing and sure evidence of grace” to the believer’s conscience. “And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments” (1 John 2:3 NAS). “Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. We shall know by this that we are of the truth, and shall assure our heart before Him” (1 John 3:18-19 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints. And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end (Heb. 6:10-11 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a></blockquote>\nThe Heart Gives Evidence\nThe heart behind our actions provides the main evidence to our conscience that our faith is true. Our actions cannot be separated from the intent of our heart that produce them. Therefore, when God views our actions, “He looks at the practice of the soul; for the soul is the man in God’s sight.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> And when our works flow from a heart of love to God, the same love gives direct evidence to our soul that our faith is true. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Our actions display the “exertion of grace in the will, directing and commanding the actions of the body.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> Thus, God judges our works by the heart behind them. “I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give to each man according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds” (Jer. 17:10 NAS). “I am He who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds” (Rev. 2:23 NAS).\n\nAction Reveals Preference\nThe nature of a heart is seen by its choices. “When a man is at liberty whether to walk or sit still, the proper proof of his having a heart to walk, is his walking. Godliness consists not in a heart which intends to do the will of God, but in a heart which does it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “It is therefore exceedingly absurd, and even ridiculous, for any to pretend that they have a good heart, while they live a wicked life.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> God rebuked Israel for proclaiming their fidelity and intent to obey while they habitually ignored His commands. “I have heard the voice of the words of this people which they have spoken to you. They have done well in all that they have spoken. \\\'Oh that they had such a heart in them, that they would fear Me, and keep all My commandments always” (Deut. 5:28-29 NAS)\n\nTrials Reveal the True Heart\n“Holy practice, under trials, is the highest evidence of the sincerity of professors to their own consciences.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> God does not test us to gain knowledge for Himself, but uses trials to show us the nature of our heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Like gold, we best know our faith once it has been clarified in God’s furnace. We know the strength of a building when it withstands the wind. We know true wheat from chaff by its winnowing, or the strength of a staff by the weight it can bear. To weigh ourselves rightly, “we must weigh ourselves in the scales that God makes use of to weigh us.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>\n\nGrace Is Perfected in Practice\nThe perfection of a tree is not in the planting of the seed, its sprouting, growth, and the forming leaves and blossoms, but in producing fruit. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> “If we would see the proper nature of anything whatsoever, and see it in its full distinction from other things, let us look upon it in the finishing of it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> In Abraham’s offering of Isaac, “faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected” (James 2:22 NAS). “The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected” (1 John 2:4-5 NAS). “No one has beheld God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us” (1 John 4:12 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\n\nScripture Insists that Holy Practice Is the Chief Evidence\nHoly practice “is ten times more insisted on as a note of true piety throughout the Scripture, from the beginning of Genesis to the end of Revelation, than anything else.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a> And love, expressed by action, tops the list. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> “We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren” (1 John 3:14 NAS).\n\nScripture Insists that Holy Practice Is the Chief Evidence to Our Own Conscience\nJesus identifies obedience as the greatest sign of love to Him: “If you abide in My word, <em>then</em> you are truly disciples of Mine” (John 8:31 NAS). “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15 NAS). “By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and <em>so</em> prove to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NAS). “You are My friends, if you do what I command you” (John 15:14 NAS).\n\nThe Spirit through John, says: “And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar” (1 John 2:3-4 NAS). “Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. We shall know by this that we are of the truth, and shall assure our heart before Him” (1 John 3:18-19 NAS). “By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother” (1 John 3:10 NAS).\n\nGod Will Judge Works to Reveal His Righteous Judgment to Every Conscience\nGod knows everything. Thus, in His judging the hearts of mankind, “in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God” (Rom. 2:5 NAS), He will not seek information to form an opinion, but will reveal the righteousness of His judgment. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> “I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give to each man according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds” (Jer. 17:10 NAS). “And if you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each man\\\'s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay <em>upon earth</em>” (1 Pet. 1:17 NAS). “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done” (Rev. 22:12 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\n\nSummary\n“Christian practice is the most proper evidence of the gracious sincerity of professors, to themselves and others; and the chief of all the marks of grace, the sign of signs, and evidence of evidences, that which seals and crowns all other signs.” Indeed, the best evidence of a fig tree is it produces figs. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a> Edwards warns us to give biblical principles the attention and importance that Scripture gives to them.\n<blockquote>God knew which way of leading and guiding souls was safest and best for them: He insisted so much on some things, because He knew it to be needful that they should be insisted on; and let other things more alone as a wise God, because He knew it was not best for us so much to lay the weight of the trial there....And for us to make that great which the Scripture makes little, and that little which the Scripture makes great, tends to give us a monstrous idea of religion; and (at least indirectly and gradually) to lead us wholly away from the right rule, and from a right opinion of ourselves, and to establish delusion and hypocrisy. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a></blockquote>\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 341; Yale, 420.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 341; Yale, 420-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 344-345; Yale, 424.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 345; Yale, 424.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 346; Yale, 425.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 348; Yale, 427.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 348; Yale, 428.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 352-353; Yale, 432.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 352; Yale, 431.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 353; Yale, 432-433.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 355; Yale, 435.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 356; Yale, 436.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> See also 1 John 4:17-19.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 356; Yale, 436.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 357; Yale, 437.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 361; Yale, 441.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> See also Pr. 24:12, Jer. 32:18-19, Matt. 25:30-46, Rom. 2:5-13.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 363; Yale, 443.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 358; Yale, 438.</p>\n&nbsp;\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 30): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (4)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12881-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:06','2023-03-21 09:45:06','',12881,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14664',0,'revision','',0),(14665,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:07','2023-03-21 09:45:07','','RA-christian-works7-works-faith-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-christian-works7-works-faith-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:45:07','2023-03-21 09:45:07','',12925,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/RA-christian-works7-works-faith-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14666,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:08','2023-03-21 09:45:08','We come to the third section of Edwards’ treatment of Christian practice as evidence of true religious affections, of a true and saving work of the Holy Spirit in a believer. Not only does Edwards call this the “chief” evidence of God’s grace in the heart, he spends twenty percent of the entire treatise on how and why the Holy Spirit in believers produces Christian practice.\n\nA Heart to Love Christ Will Love Christ\n“Having a heart to forsake all for Christ, tends to actually forsaking all for Him, so far as there is occasion, and we have trial.” Similarly, “having a heart to deny ourselves for Christ tends to a denying ourselves indeed, when Christ and self-interest stand in competition.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> A new heart does new things; true love does acts of love.\n\nTrue Grace Is Active\nNew and divine life in the soul directly and necessarily produce Christian works. “Nothing in the universe…has a greater tendency to fruit. Godliness in the heart has as direct a relation to practice, as a fountain has to a stream, or as the luminous nature of the sun has to beams sent forth, or as life has to breathing.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Indeed, Christ saved us for this purpose. “All is calculated and framed, in this mighty and manifold change wrought in the soul, so as directly to tend to this end.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him” (Eph. 1:4 NAS). “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:10 NAS). Christ “gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds” (Titus 2:14 NAS).\n\n“Everything in a true Christian is calculated to reach this end,” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> while God’s judgment rests on the fruitless: “The axe is already laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (Matt. 3:10 NAS). Christ cursed the fig tree on which He expected to find figs and found none (Matt. 21:19). In His parable of the soils, the good soil yields a crop of “a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty” (Matt. 13:8 NAS). In concluding His parable of the Vine and Vinedresser, where barren branches are trimmed and thrown into the fire, Christ concludes: \\\"By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and <em>so</em> prove to be My disciples” (John 15:1-8 NAS). God’s grace in the heart produces fruit.\n\nProfessing believers are likewise warned in the Book of Hebrews: “Ground that drinks the rain which often falls upon it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is also tilled, receives a blessing from God; but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned” (Heb. 6:7-8 NAS).\n\nTrue Saints Perform True Christian Works\nUnbelievers may do many things that outwardly appear Christian, such as attending church for blessings, or seeking to live a moral life to avoid God’s judgment. Yet, mercenary Christians will not endure, especially in the face of severe trials or disgrace. “An unsanctified man may hide his sin, and may in many things, and for a season refrain from sin; but he will not be brought finally to renounce his sin, and give it a bill of divorce; sin is too dear to him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nMoreover, the straight and narrow way involves the self-denial of “utterly denying and finally renouncing all ungodliness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> The unbeliever that follows Christ for benefits but lacks the new sense that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness, will not wholly deny self. Pharaoh let God’s people go at the threat of annihilation, but revealed his wicked heart by sending his chariots after them to retrieve his cheap labor force. His actions were restrained for a while, but his heart remained unchanged. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\n\nTrue Christian Practice Displays a True Christian Profession\nChrist, Himself, declares the supreme measure of a true profession of faith:\n<blockquote>You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn <em>bushes</em>, nor figs from thistles, are they? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit; but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will know them by their fruits (Matt. 7:16-20 NAS).</blockquote>\nActions speak louder than words. A life of service and sacrifice for Christ’s honor and exaltation give greater evidence of love to Christ than testimonies of great and heartfelt experiences of God’s love when a changed life is absent. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>Passing affections easily produce words; and words are cheap; and godliness is more easily feigned in words than in actions. Christian practice is a costly, laborious thing. The self-denial that is required of Christians, and the narrowness of the way that leads to life, does not consist in words, but in practice. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a></blockquote>\nTherefore, \\\"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16 NAS). And while we reject the pharisaical practice of good works to be seen and honored by others, a transformed heart is seen by a transformed life. \\\"He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father, and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him\\\" (John 14:21 NAS).\n\nCaveats\n<em>Christian truth must be believed.</em> With each of the twelve signs of a saving work of God in believers, Edwards presumes belief in the essentials of Christian doctrine. The good works of an atheist give no evidence of new life in Christ. An implied or explicit profession of basic Gospel truth is necessary, including (but not limited to) belief that Christ is Lord and Savior, that He satisfied the requirements of God’s justice by paying the penalty for our sins on the cross. True believers hate and “renounce all sin,” knowing they are sinful and deserve God’s wrath. As believers, we “embrace Christ as our only Saviour; and that we love Him above all, and are willing for His sake to forsake all, and that we do give up ourselves to be entirely and forever His, etc.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Believers embrace the Gospel and “profess that they rely on Christ’s righteousness only, and on His strength; and that they are devoted to Him, as their only Lord and Saviour, and that they rejoice in Him as their only righteousness and portion.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\n\n<em>The content of faith must be understood.</em> Those claiming faith in Christ must grasp the meaning and personal implication of what they profess. A rote or superficial repeating of “customary” and accepted language of Christian testimonies gives no evidence of a true profession of Christianity. Anyone can merely repeat what they have heard or been taught. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>\n\n<em>The timing and exact steps of a personal experience of the new birth need not be understood.</em> For a profession of Christianity to be considered acceptable, you need not understand the exact timing and stages by which the Holy Spirit changed your heart and brought you to faith. During the Awakening, some insisted you must be able to give an accurate account of such steps in order to be received into fellowship as a Christian, disregarding the “vastly more important and essential” marks of true belief. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a> What counts is the results of what God has done in our heart, not the exact specifics of how He did it.\n\n<em>Christian practice goes beyond a moral life.</em> The absence of great character flaws and scandalous living do not constitute uniquely Christian works. By the common grace of God, many unbelievers live outwardly moral lives and, relative to others, appear as upright and excellent people. Christian practice, however, involves a life devoted to the service and obedience to God though Christ. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\n\n<em>No external appearances are infallible evidences of grace.</em> No one infallibly knows the heart of another. God, alone, knows perfectly the state of a professing believer’s soul, seeing what we cannot see and knowing what we cannot know. Moreover, “it is impossible certainly to determine how far a man may go in many external appearances and imitations of grace, from other principles.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> As we have seen throughout the treatise, especially with respect to uncertain signs of grace, people “serve God” for a host of reasons that have nothing to do with a true love of God for who He is.\n\nNext up: More evidence that gracious affections produce Christian works.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 320; Yale, 397.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 320; Yale, 398.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 321; Yale, 398.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 321; Yale, 399.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 324; Yale, 404.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 326; Yale, 405.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 330-1; Yale, 330.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 332; Yale, 411.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 334; Yale, 413.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 335; Yale, 414.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 338; Yale, 417.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 339; Yale, 418.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 339-40; Yale, 418-20.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 340-1; Yale, 420.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 29): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (3)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12866-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:08','2023-03-21 09:45:08','',12866,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14666',0,'revision','',0),(14667,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:11','2023-03-21 09:45:11','','RA-produce-christian-works-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-produce-christian-works-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:45:11','2023-03-21 09:45:11','',12911,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/RA-produce-christian-works-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14668,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:16','2023-03-21 09:45:16','','RA-christian-works5-grace-of-holy-spirit-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-christian-works5-grace-of-holy-spirit-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:45:16','2023-03-21 09:45:16','',12896,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/RA-christian-works5-grace-of-holy-spirit-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14669,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:20','2023-03-21 09:45:20','','RA-christian-works5-fruit-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-christian-works5-fruit-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:45:20','2023-03-21 09:45:20','',12881,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/RA-christian-works5-fruit-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14670,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:24','2023-03-21 09:45:24','','RA-christian-works-Jesus-is-the-vine-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-christian-works-jesus-is-the-vine-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:45:24','2023-03-21 09:45:24','',12866,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/RA-christian-works-Jesus-is-the-vine-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14671,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:27','2023-03-21 09:45:27','We come to the last article in the series examining Edwards’ arguments in his classic treatise, <em>Religious Affections</em>, and a second possible objection to Christian practice as the chief sign of true religious affections: Does the principle of works as evidence of God’s grace in the heart contradict the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone? Does it elevate works at the cost of “the glory of free grace”? <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nCause or Effect\r\nEdwards views the objection as “altogether without reason.” Scripture teaches that works as the <em>price</em> to purchase God’s favor negates the free grace of salvation, not works as the <em>evidence</em> of God’s favor. “Surely the beggar’s looking on the money he has in his hands, as a sign of the kindness of him who gave it to him, is in no respect inconsistent with the freeness of that kindness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> The Scriptural doctrine of justification by faith recognizes our works as unacceptable to God as payment for sin and unable to move God to give us eternal life, but never denies their importance as the fruit of God’s grace. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nNew life in Christ necessarily produces a changed life, but to claim that a necessary <em>result</em> of salvation must therefore be its <em>cause</em> is illogical and unbiblical. Christian works follow but never merit salvation—Christ alone satisfied the sinless perfection and penalty required by God’s justice for eternal life. Even faith does not justify as a meritorious work, but as that which unites us to Christ who earned salvation for us. God justifies the ungodly by the imputation of Christ’s perfect righteousness to those united to Him by faith. In Christ we have every benefit of His life, death, and resurrection. In Christ we have justification and new life. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nEvery Grace of God\r\nIf Christian practice as a vital sign of God’s grace denies salvation by free grace, then every fruit of God’s work in the heart denies salvation by free grace. For instance, love and loyalty to God; joy, humility, and the desire to exalt and give all glory to Christ, each give important evidence of new life.\r\n<blockquote>To make light of works because we are not justified by works, is the same thing in effect as to make light of all religion, all grace and holiness, yea, true evangelical holiness, and all gracious experience; for all is included, when the Scripture says, we are not justified by works; for by works in this case, is meant all our own righteousness, religion, or holiness, and every thing that is in us, all the good we do, and all the good which we are conscious of, all external acts, and all internal acts and exercises of grace, and all experiences, and all those holy and heavenly things wherein the life and power and the very essence of religion do consist, all those great things which Christ and His apostles mainly insisted on in their preaching, and endeavoured to promote, as of the greatest consequence in the hearts and lives of men, and all good dispositions, exercise and qualification of every kind whatsoever; and even faith itself, considered as part of our holiness. We are justified by none of these things; and if we were, we should, in a Scripture sense, be justified by works. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nYet, Scripture portrays these things as essential, as evidence of true faith and new life in Christ. Again, if good works cannot be an inevitable fruit of saving faith and a vital and necessary part of the Christian life without compromising justification by faith alone, then neither can any fruit of God saving and sanctifying us. Anything we have or do to merit the benefits of Christ’s saving work contradicts free grace—godly practice as the fruit and evidence of saving faith does not. Thus, Abraham’s works justified or gave evidence of his faith as true, even as he was justified by grace through faith alone. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nScripture’s Testimony\r\nScripture often speaks of holy practice and free grace in the same breath.\r\n<blockquote>Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Remove the evil of your deeds from My sight. Cease to do evil, Learn to do good; Seek justice, Reprove the ruthless; Defend the orphan, Plead for the widow. ‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ Says the LORD, ‘Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool\\\' (Isa. 1:16-18 NAS).</blockquote>\r\n“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Rev 3:20-21 NAS). “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son” (Rev 21:6-7 NAS). “Blessed <em>are</em> they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Rev. 22:14).\r\n\r\nFor Edwards, we should no more reject “works” as vital to the Christian life than we should reject “<em>holiness, godliness, grace</em>…and even <em>faith</em> itself.” To make any of these meritorious or a basis of our justification contradicts free grace, but all serve as evidence of God’s work in the heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGod’s Way Is the Right Way\r\nAs finite and fallible, we cannot see into the depths of another man’s soul, and our judgments cannot be fully trusted. Moreover, the natural and supernatural influences on human affections are so “innumerable and unsearchable” that “no philosophy or experience will ever be sufficient to guide us safely through this labyrinth and maze” without the direction God provides in Scripture. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGod knows everything. He knows every heart. He knows what is best for us, what allowances should be made for the differences between people, how natural affections can imitate and intermingle with grace, how our imagination influences our affections, and how our thoughts and imagination can mix with the Spirit’s work of illumination. Knowing another’s heart is a complex and messy business, and we are easily deceived. But God has given us the best rules to make sense of the confusion.\r\n\r\nWe create big problems when we de-emphasize or second-guess that which Scripture calls evidence of true faith in Christ, under the mistaken belief that stressing such things nullifies grace. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Wisdom examines others and ourselves by God’s standards, not our own. And God’s way brings blessing, including the conviction of deceived people professing Christ who have yet to truly know Him. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> It promotes godly works over excessive boasting about our experiences, removing barriers to faith as we speak and demonstrate the truth of the Gospel, rather than hardening unbelief by hypocritical displays of talk without deeds. In this way, the light of Christ in believers “would so shine before men, that others, seeing their good works, would glorify their Father which is in heaven.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> To Him be glory forever, Amen.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 375: Yale, 455.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 376; Yale, 455.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> New life always accompanies justification, but new life never justifies. Justification of sinners is solely by the imputation of Christ’s perfect righteousness, the only righteousness that satisfies God’s unchanging justice and requirement for eternal life. For an in-depth exposition of Edwards’ understanding of the merit of Christ’s righteousness as the sole basis of salvation, see Biehl, <em>The Infinite Merit of Christ: The Glory of Christ’s Obedience in the Theology of Jonathan Edwards</em>.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 377; Yale, 456-7.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 378; Yale, 457. No contradiction exists between the reality of Abraham’s faith as displayed by the works it produced, as presented in James 2:18-26, and Abraham as justified before God by faith alone, apart from works, as explained in Romans 4. In any event, God does not contradict Himself, though our dim and limited perspective often hinders our understanding.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 380; Yale, 459.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 380-1; Yale, 459.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 380; Yale, 459.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 381; Yale, 460-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 382; Yale, 461. Cf. Matt. 5:16.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 33): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (7)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12925-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:27','2023-03-21 09:45:27','',12925,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14671',0,'revision','',0),(14672,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:32','2023-03-21 09:45:32','As we come to the last two articles in our study of <em>Religious Affections</em>, Edwards addresses two possible objections to the doctrine that Christian practice is the chief of all signs of saving grace. The first objection asserts that Christian works as the main sign of true religious affections contradicts Edwards’ emphasis throughout <em>Affections</em> that the greatest evidence of God’s saving work in a believer involves the inward experience of the heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nHeart and Practice Are Inseparable\r\nOn the one hand, those professing faith in Christ should “judge their state chiefly by their inward experience” because “spiritual experiences are the main evidences of true grace.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> But, this does not deny that Christian practice forms the chief evidence of grace in the heart. Rather, the godly motives behind our actions give evidence to our conscience of the Holy Spirit’s work in the soul.\r\n\r\nFor Edwards, conduct cannot be separated and distinguished from inward experience. Since our outward actions are directed by and determined by the will, they should be seen as “secondary” as “dependent” on “the acts of the soul.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> And while some inward experiences involve no action, such as meditation on a passage of Scripture, every action involves the heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Thus, inward operations of the soul are no less heart-felt Christian experience because they generate outward action. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nHoly Practice and Knowing God\r\nThough Christianity is foremost a relationship of the heart between God and man, holy practice forms the most important and distinguishing part of this inward spiritual experience. “‘Did not your father eat and drink, and do justice and righteousness? Then it was well with him. He pled the cause of the afflicted and needy; Then it was well. Is not that what it means to know Me?’ Declares the LORD” (Jer. 22:15-16 NAS). “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers” (Rom. 1:9). “For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world” (2 Cor. 1:12 NAS). “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments” (1 John 5:3).\r\n<blockquote>But in all <em>things</em> approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left (2 Cor 6:4-7).</blockquote>\r\n“And for this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me” (Col. 1:29-2:1 NAS). Inward love to God appears outwardly in our actions and pursuits.\r\n\r\nReligion of the Heart\r\nTrue Christian practice, then, involves the experience and the heart. Indeed, according to Edwards, religious activity apart from new life in Christ is “good for nothing,” while religious experience with no change in behavior is “worse than nothing.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> True faith in Christ involves the affections, while the holy actions that flow from them display their holy nature. The strength of affections between two friends is best seen when they “carry them through fire and water for each other.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nTrials and the Witness of the Spirit\r\nThe Holy Spirit dwells in us as a “pledge,” giving inward witness that we are sons of God (2 Cor. 5:5 NAS). “This seal of the Spirit is the highest kind of evidence of the saints’ adoption that ever they obtain.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> At the same time, the Spirit’s witness displays itself most visibly in our obedience under severe difficulties. The suffering church and “the full assurance and unspeakable joys of many of the martyrs” give abundant testimony “that Christ commonly gives, by His Spirit, the greatest and most joyful evidences to His saints of their sonship in those effectual exercises of grace under trials.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> “If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you” (1 Pet. 4:14 NAS).\r\n<blockquote>For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, ‘Abba! Father!’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with <em>Him</em> in order that we may also be glorified with <em>Him</em>. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us (Rom. 8:15-18 NAS).</blockquote>\r\n“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give <em>some</em> of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it” (Rev. 2:17 NAS)\r\n\r\nNext up: Do Christian works as the chief evidence of God’s grace in the heart contradict the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone?\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 370-5; Yale, 450-5.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 370; Yale, 450.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 371; Yale, 450.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 371; Yale, 450-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 371; Yale, 450.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 373; Yale, 452.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 373-4; Yale, 453.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 374; Yale, 454.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 374-5; Yale, 454.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 32): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (6)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12911-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:32','2023-03-21 09:45:32','',12911,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14672',0,'revision','',0),(14673,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:37','2023-03-21 09:45:37','In the previous article we saw how Christian works provide the greatest evidence of saving faith to our own conscience. We turn now to see that holy practice “confirms and crowns all other signs of godliness,” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> that it forms the proper and best evidence of every grace the Holy Spirit gives to the believer in Christ. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nTrue and Saving Knowledge of God\r\nAs we have already seen, obedience to God gives evidence of a saving knowledge of God. “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him” (1 John 2:3-4 NAS). Indeed, knowledge of God without love and honor to God brings God’s judgment (Rom. 1:18ff.)\r\n\r\nRepentance\r\nChristian works of obedience accompany and give evidence of true repentance, faith in Christ, and belief and embracing of the truth. Believers are to “bring forth fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matt. 3:8 NAS). In Paul’s appeal to King Agrippa, he recounts his call to Jews and Gentiles to “repent and turn to God, performing deeds appropriate to repentance” (Acts 26:20 NAS).\r\n\r\nSaving Faith and Belief of the Truth\r\nIn Romans 4, Abraham’s justification is by faith, alone, apart from human works. In James 2, Abraham’s faith is shown to be true. Edwards understood that salvation includes justification and new life, and that believers never have one without the other.\r\n\r\nChrist, alone, met the requirements of God’s justice for eternal life by His righteous obedience and death on the cross to pay the penalty for our sin. Saving faith unites to Christ, in Whom we are justified by His righteousness imputed to us, and given new life by His righteousness imparted as the Holy Spirit indwells us and displays His nature in and through us. Only Christ’s <em>imputed</em> righteousness justifies; His <em>imparted</em> righteousness justifies no one, but shows the reality of justification by the works of new life.\r\n\r\nTrue faith, then, believes and lives the truth: “For I was very glad when brethren came and bore witness to your truth, <em>that is</em>, how you are walking in truth” (3 John 1:3 NAS).\r\n<blockquote>Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected; and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, ‘And Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness,’ and he was called the friend of God. You see that a man is justified by works, and not by faith alone (James 2:21-24 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nAbraham’s best works were tainted and could never merit eternal life according to God’s standard of justice. Abraham’s faith, however, was justified as genuine by his works. Anyone can say, “I believe.” But, the faith that merely knows facts the way demons know God, does not unite to Christ for justification and new life. This “dead” faith lacks the ¬love for Christ’s holy character, trust in Christ for salvation, and obedience from love and gratitude.\r\n\r\nThe Will to Forsake All for Christ\r\nMany proclaim a heart to forsake all for Christ. But, like Matthew, a willing heart is seen by what it does. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> When called by Christ, “he left all, rose up, and followed him” (Luke 5:28).\r\n\r\nWhen the rich young ruler intimated to Christ his willingness to do whatever it takes to inherit eternal life, he displayed his true heart when “he went away grieved” when Christ told him to sell all, “for he was one who owned much property” (Matt. 19:22 NAS). Perhaps he could spare a few camels, a goat, or beachfront property on the Galilee shore, but he was unwilling to forsake all for Christ.\r\n\r\nTrust in Christ\r\nFurther, willingness to suffer for Christ reveals trust in Christ. “And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found his life shall lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake shall find it” (Matt. 10:38-39 NAS). “For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day” (2 Tim. 1:12 NAS).\r\n\r\nMoses, by faith, “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh\\\'s daughter; choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God, than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin; considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward (Heb. 11:24-26 NAS). The faithful of Hebrews 11 includes many who were tortured, mocked, imprisoned, and killed. “They went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated (<em>men</em> of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground” (Heb. 11:37-38 NAS). They ventured all for the object of their faith and hope.\r\n\r\nLove to God and Man\r\nAs seen throughout <em>Religious Affections</em>, the love for the excellence of God’s perfections, perfections made lovely by the beauty of God’s holiness, forms the ultimate ground of all gracious or godly affections. A true love for God displays itself in our obedience, in acts of love for God and others.\r\n\r\nHumility and a True Fear of God\r\nHumility before God displays animates our actions toward God and others. “He hath shewed thee, O man, what <em>is</em> good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Mic. 6:8).\r\n\r\nGod praised Job for his reverent life. “For there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from evil” (Job 1:8 NAS). Though not without hiccups, Job “held fast his integrity,” despite his sufferings. And so should we, “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil” (Prov. 3:7).\r\n\r\nTrue Thankfulness\r\nActs of gratitude display a heart of gratitude. “What shall I render to the LORD for all His benefits toward me?” (Ps. 116:12 NAS). “Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High” (Ps. 50:14). “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders <em>his way aright</em> I shall show the salvation of God” (Ps. 50:23 NAS).\r\n\r\nGracious Longing and Hope\r\nHoly desires and hope “are not idle wishes,” but active in pursuing God. “O God, Thou art my God; I shall seek Thee earnestly; My soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee, in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Ps. 63:1 NAS). “And everyone who has this hope <em>fixed</em> on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3 NAS). “We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention <em>of you</em> in our prayers; constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thess. 1:2-3 NAS).\r\n\r\nA Holy Joy\r\nThe heart that loves the beauty of God’s moral excellence pursues a life of holiness in obedience to God. “I have inherited Thy testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform Thy statutes forever, <em>even</em> to the end…. I have rejoiced in the way of Thy testimonies, as much as in all riches” (Ps. 119:111-12, 14 NAS). Love “does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth” (1 Cor. 13:6 NAS).\r\n\r\nChristian Courage and Endurance\r\n“The trial of a good soldier is not in his chimney corner, but in the field of battle.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Thus, the Apostle Paul exhorts Timothy to join him in suffering hardship “as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:3). The courage and endurance of soldiers in Christ’s service appear in action and perseverance.\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nWhen people proclaim their great and wonderful experiences and extraordinary episodes of love and joy, “they are no further to be regarded than they have influence on their practice.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> Talk is easy. Like Peter before Pentecost, anyone can proclaim their love, loyalty, and willingness to suffer and die for Christ. But, new life in Christ makes them a reality.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 364; Yale, 444.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 364-370; Yale, 444-449.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 366; Yale, 446.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 370; Yale, 449.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">, </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">, </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">, and </span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 31): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (5)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12896-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:37','2023-03-21 09:45:37','',12896,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14673',0,'revision','',0),(14674,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:42','2023-03-21 09:45:42','In our study of Edwards’ analysis of Christian practice, we now turn from how Christian works give evidence <em>to others</em> of a saving work of the Holy Spirit, to how the same works form the greatest evidence of saving faith <em>to our own conscience.</em>\r\n\r\nScripture and Assurance to Our Conscience\r\nThe Bible presents Christian works as “a distinguishing and sure evidence of grace” to the believer’s conscience. “And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments” (1 John 2:3 NAS). “Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. We shall know by this that we are of the truth, and shall assure our heart before Him” (1 John 3:18-19 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n<blockquote>For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints. And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end (Heb. 6:10-11 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nThe Heart Gives Evidence\r\nThe heart behind our actions provides the main evidence to our conscience that our faith is true. Our actions cannot be separated from the intent of our heart that produce them. Therefore, when God views our actions, “He looks at the practice of the soul; for the soul is the man in God’s sight.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> And when our works flow from a heart of love to God, the same love gives direct evidence to our soul that our faith is true. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Our actions display the “exertion of grace in the will, directing and commanding the actions of the body.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> Thus, God judges our works by the heart behind them. “I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give to each man according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds” (Jer. 17:10 NAS). “I am He who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds” (Rev. 2:23 NAS).\r\n\r\nAction Reveals Preference\r\nThe nature of a heart is seen by its choices. “When a man is at liberty whether to walk or sit still, the proper proof of his having a heart to walk, is his walking. Godliness consists not in a heart which intends to do the will of God, but in a heart which does it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “It is therefore exceedingly absurd, and even ridiculous, for any to pretend that they have a good heart, while they live a wicked life.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> God rebuked Israel for proclaiming their fidelity and intent to obey while they habitually ignored His commands. “I have heard the voice of the words of this people which they have spoken to you. They have done well in all that they have spoken. \\\'Oh that they had such a heart in them, that they would fear Me, and keep all My commandments always” (Deut. 5:28-29 NAS)\r\n\r\nTrials Reveal the True Heart\r\n“Holy practice, under trials, is the highest evidence of the sincerity of professors to their own consciences.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> God does not test us to gain knowledge for Himself, but uses trials to show us the nature of our heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Like gold, we best know our faith once it has been clarified in God’s furnace. We know the strength of a building when it withstands the wind. We know true wheat from chaff by its winnowing, or the strength of a staff by the weight it can bear. To weigh ourselves rightly, “we must weigh ourselves in the scales that God makes use of to weigh us.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGrace Is Perfected in Practice\r\nThe perfection of a tree is not in the planting of the seed, its sprouting, growth, and the forming leaves and blossoms, but in producing fruit. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> “If we would see the proper nature of anything whatsoever, and see it in its full distinction from other things, let us look upon it in the finishing of it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> In Abraham’s offering of Isaac, “faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected” (James 2:22 NAS). “The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected” (1 John 2:4-5 NAS). “No one has beheld God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us” (1 John 4:12 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nScripture Insists that Holy Practice Is the Chief Evidence\r\nHoly practice “is ten times more insisted on as a note of true piety throughout the Scripture, from the beginning of Genesis to the end of Revelation, than anything else.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a> And love, expressed by action, tops the list. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> “We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren” (1 John 3:14 NAS).\r\n\r\nScripture Insists that Holy Practice Is the Chief Evidence to Our Own Conscience\r\nJesus identifies obedience as the greatest sign of love to Him: “If you abide in My word, <em>then</em> you are truly disciples of Mine” (John 8:31 NAS). “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15 NAS). “By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and <em>so</em> prove to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NAS). “You are My friends, if you do what I command you” (John 15:14 NAS).\r\n\r\nThe Spirit through John, says: “And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar” (1 John 2:3-4 NAS). “Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. We shall know by this that we are of the truth, and shall assure our heart before Him” (1 John 3:18-19 NAS). “By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother” (1 John 3:10 NAS).\r\n\r\nGod Will Judge Works to Reveal His Righteous Judgment to Every Conscience\r\nGod knows everything. Thus, in His judging the hearts of mankind, “in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God” (Rom. 2:5 NAS), He will not seek information to form an opinion, but will reveal the righteousness of His judgment. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> “I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give to each man according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds” (Jer. 17:10 NAS). “And if you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each man\\\'s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay <em>upon earth</em>” (1 Pet. 1:17 NAS). “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done” (Rev. 22:12 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nSummary\r\n“Christian practice is the most proper evidence of the gracious sincerity of professors, to themselves and others; and the chief of all the marks of grace, the sign of signs, and evidence of evidences, that which seals and crowns all other signs.” Indeed, the best evidence of a fig tree is it produces figs. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a> Edwards warns us to give biblical principles the attention and importance that Scripture gives to them.\r\n<blockquote>God knew which way of leading and guiding souls was safest and best for them: He insisted so much on some things, because He knew it to be needful that they should be insisted on; and let other things more alone as a wise God, because He knew it was not best for us so much to lay the weight of the trial there....And for us to make that great which the Scripture makes little, and that little which the Scripture makes great, tends to give us a monstrous idea of religion; and (at least indirectly and gradually) to lead us wholly away from the right rule, and from a right opinion of ourselves, and to establish delusion and hypocrisy. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 341; Yale, 420.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 341; Yale, 420-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 344-345; Yale, 424.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 345; Yale, 424.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 346; Yale, 425.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 348; Yale, 427.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 348; Yale, 428.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 352-353; Yale, 432.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 352; Yale, 431.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 353; Yale, 432-433.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 355; Yale, 435.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 356; Yale, 436.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> See also 1 John 4:17-19.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 356; Yale, 436.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 357; Yale, 437.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 361; Yale, 441.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> See also Pr. 24:12, Jer. 32:18-19, Matt. 25:30-46, Rom. 2:5-13.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 363; Yale, 443.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 358; Yale, 438.</p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 30): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (4)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12881-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:42','2023-03-21 09:45:42','',12881,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14674',0,'revision','',0),(14675,1,'2023-03-21 09:45:46','2023-03-21 09:45:46','We come to the third section of Edwards’ treatment of Christian practice as evidence of true religious affections, of a true and saving work of the Holy Spirit in a believer. Not only does Edwards call this the “chief” evidence of God’s grace in the heart, he spends twenty percent of the entire treatise on how and why the Holy Spirit in believers produces Christian practice.\r\n\r\nA Heart to Love Christ Will Love Christ\r\n“Having a heart to forsake all for Christ, tends to actually forsaking all for Him, so far as there is occasion, and we have trial.” Similarly, “having a heart to deny ourselves for Christ tends to a denying ourselves indeed, when Christ and self-interest stand in competition.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> A new heart does new things; true love does acts of love.\r\n\r\nTrue Grace Is Active\r\nNew and divine life in the soul directly and necessarily produce Christian works. “Nothing in the universe…has a greater tendency to fruit. Godliness in the heart has as direct a relation to practice, as a fountain has to a stream, or as the luminous nature of the sun has to beams sent forth, or as life has to breathing.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Indeed, Christ saved us for this purpose. “All is calculated and framed, in this mighty and manifold change wrought in the soul, so as directly to tend to this end.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him” (Eph. 1:4 NAS). “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:10 NAS). Christ “gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds” (Titus 2:14 NAS).\r\n\r\n“Everything in a true Christian is calculated to reach this end,” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> while God’s judgment rests on the fruitless: “The axe is already laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (Matt. 3:10 NAS). Christ cursed the fig tree on which He expected to find figs and found none (Matt. 21:19). In His parable of the soils, the good soil yields a crop of “a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty” (Matt. 13:8 NAS). In concluding His parable of the Vine and Vinedresser, where barren branches are trimmed and thrown into the fire, Christ concludes: \\\"By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and <em>so</em> prove to be My disciples” (John 15:1-8 NAS). God’s grace in the heart produces fruit.\r\n\r\nProfessing believers are likewise warned in the Book of Hebrews: “Ground that drinks the rain which often falls upon it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is also tilled, receives a blessing from God; but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned” (Heb. 6:7-8 NAS).\r\n\r\nTrue Saints Perform True Christian Works\r\nUnbelievers may do many things that outwardly appear Christian, such as attending church for blessings, or seeking to live a moral life to avoid God’s judgment. Yet, mercenary Christians will not endure, especially in the face of severe trials or disgrace. “An unsanctified man may hide his sin, and may in many things, and for a season refrain from sin; but he will not be brought finally to renounce his sin, and give it a bill of divorce; sin is too dear to him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nMoreover, the straight and narrow way involves the self-denial of “utterly denying and finally renouncing all ungodliness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> The unbeliever that follows Christ for benefits but lacks the new sense that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness, will not wholly deny self. Pharaoh let God’s people go at the threat of annihilation, but revealed his wicked heart by sending his chariots after them to retrieve his cheap labor force. His actions were restrained for a while, but his heart remained unchanged. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nTrue Christian Practice Displays a True Christian Profession\r\nChrist, Himself, declares the supreme measure of a true profession of faith:\r\n<blockquote>You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn <em>bushes</em>, nor figs from thistles, are they? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit; but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will know them by their fruits (Matt. 7:16-20 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nActions speak louder than words. A life of service and sacrifice for Christ’s honor and exaltation give greater evidence of love to Christ than testimonies of great and heartfelt experiences of God’s love when a changed life is absent. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\r\n<blockquote>Passing affections easily produce words; and words are cheap; and godliness is more easily feigned in words than in actions. Christian practice is a costly, laborious thing. The self-denial that is required of Christians, and the narrowness of the way that leads to life, does not consist in words, but in practice. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nTherefore, \\\"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16 NAS). And while we reject the pharisaical practice of good works to be seen and honored by others, a transformed heart is seen by a transformed life. \\\"He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father, and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him\\\" (John 14:21 NAS).\r\n\r\nCaveats\r\n<em>Christian truth must be believed.</em> With each of the twelve signs of a saving work of God in believers, Edwards presumes belief in the essentials of Christian doctrine. The good works of an atheist give no evidence of new life in Christ. An implied or explicit profession of basic Gospel truth is necessary, including (but not limited to) belief that Christ is Lord and Savior, that He satisfied the requirements of God’s justice by paying the penalty for our sins on the cross. True believers hate and “renounce all sin,” knowing they are sinful and deserve God’s wrath. As believers, we “embrace Christ as our only Saviour; and that we love Him above all, and are willing for His sake to forsake all, and that we do give up ourselves to be entirely and forever His, etc.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Believers embrace the Gospel and “profess that they rely on Christ’s righteousness only, and on His strength; and that they are devoted to Him, as their only Lord and Saviour, and that they rejoice in Him as their only righteousness and portion.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\r\n\r\n<em>The content of faith must be understood.</em> Those claiming faith in Christ must grasp the meaning and personal implication of what they profess. A rote or superficial repeating of “customary” and accepted language of Christian testimonies gives no evidence of a true profession of Christianity. Anyone can merely repeat what they have heard or been taught. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>\r\n\r\n<em>The timing and exact steps of a personal experience of the new birth need not be understood.</em> For a profession of Christianity to be considered acceptable, you need not understand the exact timing and stages by which the Holy Spirit changed your heart and brought you to faith. During the Awakening, some insisted you must be able to give an accurate account of such steps in order to be received into fellowship as a Christian, disregarding the “vastly more important and essential” marks of true belief. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a> What counts is the results of what God has done in our heart, not the exact specifics of how He did it.\r\n\r\n<em>Christian practice goes beyond a moral life.</em> The absence of great character flaws and scandalous living do not constitute uniquely Christian works. By the common grace of God, many unbelievers live outwardly moral lives and, relative to others, appear as upright and excellent people. Christian practice, however, involves a life devoted to the service and obedience to God though Christ. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\r\n\r\n<em>No external appearances are infallible evidences of grace.</em> No one infallibly knows the heart of another. God, alone, knows perfectly the state of a professing believer’s soul, seeing what we cannot see and knowing what we cannot know. Moreover, “it is impossible certainly to determine how far a man may go in many external appearances and imitations of grace, from other principles.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> As we have seen throughout the treatise, especially with respect to uncertain signs of grace, people “serve God” for a host of reasons that have nothing to do with a true love of God for who He is.\r\n\r\nNext up: More evidence that gracious affections produce Christian works.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 320; Yale, 397.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 320; Yale, 398.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 321; Yale, 398.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 321; Yale, 399.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 324; Yale, 404.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 326; Yale, 405.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 330-1; Yale, 330.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 332; Yale, 411.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 334; Yale, 413.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 335; Yale, 414.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 338; Yale, 417.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 339; Yale, 418.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 339-40; Yale, 418-20.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 340-1; Yale, 420.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 29): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (3)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12866-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:45:46','2023-03-21 09:45:46','',12866,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14675',0,'revision','',0),(14676,1,'2023-03-21 09:46:53','2023-03-21 09:46:53','','RA-christian-works2-biblestudy-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-christian-works2-biblestudy-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:46:53','2023-03-21 09:46:53','',12852,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/RA-christian-works2-biblestudy-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14677,1,'2023-03-21 09:46:57','2023-03-21 09:46:57','','RA-christian-works-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-christian-works-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:46:57','2023-03-21 09:46:57','',12839,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/RA-christian-works-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14678,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:00','2023-03-21 09:47:00','In the previous article we saw that, despite failures and backsliding, true affection for Christ produces obedience to Scripture, diligence, and perseverance in love and service to Christ, even in the face of intense opposition. Edwards explains <em>why</em> by showing how the previous eleven signs of true religious affections generate Christian practice.\n\nThe Indwelling Holy Spirit Generates Gracious Affections\nTrue religious affections arise as “a communication of God, a participation of the divine nature, Christ living in the heart” as the Holy Spirit exerts His nature in the thoughts, affections, and actions of the saint. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Believers united to Christ through saving faith partake of the risen and living Savior who, by His resurrection power, gives life to the dead and exerts Himself as God to transform us. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> “For the kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power” (1 Cor. 4:20 NAS). “For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake” (1 Thess. 1:5 NAS).\n\nGracious Affections Rest on the Infinite Excellence of God\nThe natural man pursues religion for its perks, but no further. He pursues Christian things so long as they further his personal objectives. But the saint’s service will not be so fickle, since its primary motive lies in the infinite and unchanging excellence of God. The benefits of salvation certainly enhance our love to God, but the beauty of His attributes form the chief basis of that love, the greatest blessing of all. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nGracious Affections Rest on the Beauty of God’s Holiness\nThe moral excellence of God and His work form the ground of gracious affections, as the holiness of God forms the beauty of God’s attributes. “That which men love, they desire to have and to be united to, and possessed of. That beauty which men delight in, they desire to be adorned with. Those acts which men delight in, they necessarily incline to do.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Indeed, “By the sight of the transcendent glory of Christ, true Christians see Him worthy to be followed, and so are powerfully drawn after Him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nGracious Affections Attend the Belief that Scripture Is True\nPeople lacking strong belief in God and the truthfulness of Scripture will never persevere in diligent service to Christ when things get tough. By contrast, those convinced of the truth, trustworthiness, and infinite value of Scripture and the Gospel obey their commands and understand that everything else is nothing by comparison. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\n\nGracious Affections Attend a Change of Nature\nPeople will never thoroughly change the essential character and pattern of their actions without a change of nature.\n<blockquote>Until the tree be made good, the fruit will not be good. Men do not gather grapes of thorns, nor figs of thistles. The swine may be washed and appear clean for a little while but yet, without a change of nature, he will still wallow in the mire. Nature is a more powerful principle of action than anything that opposes it: though is may be violently restrained for a while, it will finally overcome that which restrains it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></blockquote>\nA few leaders of the Great Awakening appeared diligent in the things of Christ for a time, but because their nature had not been changed, they abandoned His service when the Awakening subsided. In contrast, new and true life in Christ abides in Christ.\n\nGracious Affections Attend Christian Humility\n“A proud spirit is a rebellious spirit,” while humility serves others and willingly submits to God’s authority in Scripture. Obedience to God’s commands more readily flows from a humble heart than a proud one. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\n\nGracious Affections Attend a Sweet, Lamb-like Spirit\nThe spirit that characterized Christ’s ministry, most distinctly in His peaceful obedience to the Father unto death, promotes and displays in believers sweet and selfless acts of love toward others from love to Christ.\n\nGracious Affections Attend a Tender and Teachable Heart\nThe heart sensitive to the ugliness and pain of moral evil fears its terrible influence and effects and actively works to oppose it.\n\nGracious Affections Have a Beautiful Symmetry\n“Universal, constant, and persevering” Christian practice flows from true affections that are “universal and constant in all kinds of holy exercises, and towards all objects, and in all circumstances, and at all seasons, in a beautiful symmetry and proportion.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Truly gracious affections produce a more constant, consistent, and properly balanced Christian practice.\n\nGracious Affections Increase the Desire for God and Spiritual Things\nAs we have seen, the desire for greater love and knowledge of the infinite excellence of God motivates greater enthusiasm, interest, commitment, and perseverance in Christian activity and service.\n\nThus, all the signs Edwards identifies as evidence of a true work of the Holy Spirit in a believer promote Christian practice.\n\nNext up: More evidence that gracious affections produce Christian works.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 314-5; Yale, 392.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 315; Yale, 392.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 316; Yale, 393-4.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 317; Yale, 394.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 317; Yale, 395.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 317-8; Yale, 395.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 318; Yale, 395.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 318-9; Yale, 396.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 319; Yale, 396.</p>\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 28): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (2)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12852-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:00','2023-03-21 09:47:00','',12852,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14678',0,'revision','',0),(14679,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:01','2023-03-21 09:47:01','','RA-desire-growth-rest-satisfied-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-desire-growth-rest-satisfied-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:47:01','2023-03-21 09:47:01','',12827,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/RA-desire-growth-rest-satisfied-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14680,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:02','2023-03-21 09:47:02','We come to the final sign of a true work of God in the heart of a believer, what Edwards considers “the chief of all the signs of grace”—Christian practice. As the net effect, or that which flows from the preceding eleven distinguishing signs, a holy life constitutes the best evidence of true faith in those professing faith in Christ, both outwardly to observers and inwardly to one’s own conscience. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nGracious Affections Produce Obedience\nTrue Christians obey Scripture. “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:14). “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure,” and “we know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not” (1 John 3:3, 5:18). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\n\nFor Edwards, Christian practice includes positive acts of obedience to God’s Word in service and charity, and the obedience of abstaining from wickedness and things contrary to the commands of God. Behavior fitting of the Gospel involves more than a life of moral respectability. It includes a\n<blockquote>serious, religious, devout, humble, meek, forgiving, peaceful, respectful, condescending, benevolent, merciful, charitable and beneficent walk and conversation. Without such things a these, he does not obey the laws of Christ, laws that He and His apostles did abundantly insist on as of the greatest importance and necessity. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></blockquote>\nWhen Christ returns to judge the earth, He will separate the sheep from the goats according to the presence or absence of love displayed in good works toward Him. To the sheep, He will say, “I was hungry, and you gave Me <em>something</em> to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me,” for, “inasmuch as ye have done <em>it</em> unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done <em>it</em> unto me.” Bearing the marks of love to Christ, the sheep shall enter into eternal life, while goats lacking such love are banished “into everlasting punishment” (Matt. 25:35-6, 46 NAS).\n\nEdwards never advocates salvation by the good works of fallen sinners. On the contrary, the context of the Edwards’ argument here, and consistently throughout <em>Religious Affections</em>, presents <em>evidence</em> of a redeemed heart, the heart transformed by grace and saving faith in Christ. Christ, alone, met God’s just requirement of perfect obedience for eternal life. Christ, alone, met the standard of perfect righteousness and paid the required penalty for disobedience by bearing for us the weight of God’s wrath on the cross. Believers stand justified before God by the imputed righteousness of Christ, alone. At the same time, as Edwards argues throughout the treatise, the Spirit of God gives new life and produces Christian works in every justified believer.\n\nGracious Affections Produce Diligence\nService to Christ is no halfhearted enterprise in second or third place behind worldly pursuits. Christ stands as the believer’s greatest love and first priority. Indeed, He “gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Tit. 2:13-14). Our diligence, then, increases assurance and hope. “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Heb. 6:11-12 NAS). True faith in Christ will “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:13-14). In Christ’s parable of the talents, the servants who used their master’s talents to produce more were rewarded, while the “unprofitable” servant who did nothing with his talent was thrown into “outer darkness” (Matt. 25:14-30). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\n\nGracious Affections Produce Perseverance\nA true zeal for obedience and Christian works endures. Many enthusiastic participants in the Great Awakening, however, lost an apparent love for God when the heat and excitement of the awakening died down and the social benefits of associating oneself with Christ dwindled. Some cut and ran after the next promising venture. “And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Matt. 24:12-13).\n\nEvery true believer echoes the cry of Peter, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life” (John 6:68 NAS). Thus, every saint perseveres from a love to Christ, despite the opposition. “And ye shall be hated of all <em>men</em> for my name\\\'s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matt. 10:22). “If ye continue in my word, <em>then</em> are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31). “And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). “Take care, brethren, lest there should be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God…. For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end” (Heb. 3:12, 14 NAS).\n<blockquote>Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay. But My righteous one shall live by faith; And if he shrinks back, My soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul (Heb. 10:35-39 NAS).</blockquote>\n“And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father” (Rev. 2:26-27). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nQualification\nAll true believers stumble in many ways, sometimes badly. But, those justified and transformed by the indwelling Holy Spirit will not fall into a continual dislike and disregard of serving Christ. Jesus remains the saint’s ultimate object of love and trust.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> Therefore, “let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith” (Gal. 6:9-10 NAS).\n\nNext up: Why gracious affections produce Christian works.\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 326-7; Yale, 406.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 309-10; Yale, 384-7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 310; Yale, 386-7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 310-12; Yale, 387-8.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 312-3; Yale, 388-9.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 313; Yale, 390.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 27): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (1)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12839-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:02','2023-03-21 09:47:02','',12839,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14680',0,'revision','',0),(14681,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:02','2023-03-21 09:47:02','The believer’s new sense and love of the beauty of God’s holiness produces a desire for more love to God, more regret that we do not love Him more, greater grief over sin, and more longing for personal holiness. Indeed, the more we grow in Christ, the more we seek to grow in Christ. The true believer never rests satisfied in deliverance from condemnation with no further desire to grow in the love and knowledge of God. On the contrary, knowing something of God’s infinite excellence, we continually seek to know and love Him more. By contrast, “false affections rest satisfied in themselves.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nThirsty\nSaints have been born again. And as “newborn babes” adopted into God’s family, we “desire the sincere milk of the word” that we might grow (1 Pet. 2:2). And as we develop and mature in Christ, our desire increases all the more. The greater our maturity and holiness, the greater will be our “spiritual appetite” for holiness, and the higher will be our “holy affections” toward God. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> With the Apostle Paul, we say,\n<blockquote>I do not regard myself as having laid hold of <em>it</em> yet; but one thing <em>I do</em>: forgetting what <em>lies</em> behind and reaching forward to what <em>lies</em> ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude (Phil. 3:13-15 NAS).</blockquote>\nGrowth in spiritual maturity neither removes or reduces the desire for spiritual growth, but nurtures and increases it. We have been given “but a taste” in this world, a down payment of our inheritance and the fullness of glory that awaits us in the next. God has “sealed us and gave <em>us</em> the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge” (2 Cor. 1:22 NAS). Having savored but a portion, we hunger for the entire feast. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nWhy Gracious Affections Increase Our Spiritual Appetite for God\nThe greater our holy affections toward God, the more we perceive the beauty of God’s holiness and how far we fall short. Greater grace gives greater sight of God’s excellence and a better view of our “imperfection and emptiness” by comparison. As a result, we desire to grow. Grace and faith cry, “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). “The greater spiritual discoveries and affections that a true Christian has, the more does he become an earnest beggar for grace and spiritual food, that he may grow.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\n\nObjection: Don’t Spiritual Blessings Satisfy the Soul?\nAt first glance, an ever-increasing appetite for God might seem contrary to the soul-satisfying nature of God’s spiritual blessings. But, relative to the things of the world, God’s spiritual blessings satisfy the deepest needs of the soul, whereas the things of the world do not.\n\nFirst, God has given us that which is “fully adapted to the nature, capacity, and need of the soul of man.” The solution matches the need, while the believer knows that seeking for true happiness elsewhere is futile. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nSecond, God’s spiritual blessings do not disappoint, but “fully answer and satisfy” the believer’s expectation of spiritual satisfaction, something the things of the world cannot do. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> Wayward quests for fulfillment apart from God leave us high and dry.\n\nThird, not only do the world’s delights fail to meet our spiritual needs, the shallow satisfaction they provide soon disappears. Like a good meal, pleasure recedes with each bite, while hunger returns in the morning. God’s spiritual blessings, however, last forever. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\n\nAnd fourth, while we do not fully experience the joy of God’s blessings this side of glory, they remain sufficient to satisfy to an infinite degree and, someday, they will. God’s blessings are an “infinite ocean,” hindered only by our own limitations and imperfections. “If men be not satisfied here as to degree of happiness, the cause is with themselves; it is because they do not open their mouths wide enough.” We look forward to the day when our defects disappear forever and our happiness is full to overflowing. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\n\nTherefore, God’s spiritual blessings satisfy the soul, but imperfectly in this life. “The more a man experiences and knows this excellent, unparalleled, exquisite, and satisfying sweetness, the more earnestly will he hunger and thirst for more, until he comes to perfection.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a>\n\nThe Nature of False Religious Affections\nUnlike true affections, false affections rest satisfied in their supposed religious attainments. If an unbeliever seeks God’s grace to remove the fear of hell and God’s condemnation, and then feels joy by assuming the danger has been removed by trust in an experience or anything short of saving faith in Christ, seeking God will disappear. Once the reason to seek God has been satisfied in the mind of the unbeliever, no reason remains to continue seeking His grace.\n\nBelievers, however, persist. Not that we are insecure of our salvation, or continue seeking God to be saved. Rather, we know His infinite excellence and grace and seek for more. Thus, “Seeking God is spoken of as one of the distinguishing characters of the saints, and ‘Seekers after God’ is one of the names by which the godly are called in Scripture.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> “Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: and let such as love thy salvation say continually, Let God be magnified” (Ps. 70:4). Not so with false affections.\n<blockquote>When false affections are raised very high, they put an end to longings after grace and holiness. The man now is far from appearing to himself a poor empty creature; on the contrary he is rich, and increased with goods, and hardly conceives of anything more excellent than what he has already attained to. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a></blockquote>\nDelivered from condemnation and guaranteed a heavenly home, what’s left to pursue? Lacking a true love of God’s infinite excellence and holy character, the unbeliever deceived into thinking he is right with God has no need to seek Him further.\n\nNonetheless, false affections may accompany an apparent seeking after God, such as the pursuit of temporal benefits. For example, during the Great Awakening, those testifying of extraordinary experiences were sometimes viewed as spiritually superior to others. Thus, some would continue “seeking God” and uncommon experiences to reinforce their elevated position as a spiritual leader and to maintain the approval of others. Such seeking, however, came not from a love of God’s holiness or a desire to be holy, but for blessings. One can love blessings without loving God. Some also sought greater experiences and “discoveries” that they might reinforce the false assurance built on them. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>\n\nConclusion\nThe new sense of the beauty of God’s holiness that captivates the believer’s heart drives an enduring pursuit after God. “The same sweetness that is the chief object of a spiritual taste, is also the chief object of a spiritual appetite.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>Neither a longing after great discoveries or after great tastes of the love of God, nor a longing to be in heaven, nor a longing to die, are in any measure so distinguishing marks of trues saints as longing after a more holy heart, and after living a more holy life. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a></blockquote>\nOf course, believers long for all these things, but the desire for holiness more clearly displays a new heart that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness.\n\nNext up: Gracious affections produce Christian practice.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 303; Yale, 376-7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 303, Yale, 377.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 304; Yale, 378.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 304-5; Yale, 378-9.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 305; Yale, 379.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 306; Yale, 381.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 306; Yale, 380.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 307; Yale, 382.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 308; Yale, 383.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 26): Distinguishing Sign Eleven: True Affections Desire Growth, False Affections Rest Satisfied','','inherit','closed','closed','','12827-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:02','2023-03-21 09:47:02','',12827,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14681',0,'revision','',0),(14682,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:05','2023-03-21 09:47:05','Edwards begins the discussion of sign ten with the caveat that perfection awaits us in heaven, a truth that applies to every distinguishing sign. We have all carried into our new and transformed life in Christ a trainload of unholy baggage, including bad habits, wrong thinking, character weaknesses, etc. Nonetheless, the extraordinary change that comes with saving faith in Christ includes a harmonious balance of true religious affections. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nUniversal Change\nBelievers are recreated in the whole image of Christ, receiving every grace He purchased for us. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Therefore, those united to Christ by faith reflect “something of the same beautiful proportion in the image which is in the original,” as “there is a symmetry and beauty in all of God’s workmanship.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> “The natural body, which God hath made, consists of many members; and all are in a beautiful proportion. So it is in the new man, consisting of various graces and affections.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\n\nProper and Balanced in Kind\nSome false believers have great confidence that God loves them supremely, but lack a proper reverence and fear of dishonoring Him by sin. In believers, however, joy and fear exist together with “godly sorrow and mourning for sin,” such as when Christ’s disciples discovered the empty tomb: “they departed quickly from the sepulcher, with fear and great joy” (Mat. 28:8). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> “Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4). A sense of the beauty of holiness laments the ugliness of sin.\n\nProper and Balanced in Their Objects\n<em>Toward God and people.</em> Affections give evidence of being false when they attend claims of great love to God and Christ without a love or desire for the good of other people. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20 NAS).\n\n<em>Toward friends and adversaries.</em> Some people only love those “that approve of them, love them and admire them,” but strongly reject and fight against those that do not. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> But, this comes natural to a child of Adam. “For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax-gatherers do the same?” (Matt. 5:46 NAS).\n\n<em>Toward people near and far.</em> Some profess love and concern for friends, neighbors, and even believers they have never met, but neglect their God-given responsibility to love their own spouse and children. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> True affections maintain a better order and balance of priorities.\n\n<em>Toward physical and spiritual needs of people.</em> Some give generously to meet physical needs but neglect the greater needs of the soul. Others feign concern for the souls of people while ignoring physical needs because “a great show of love, pity, and distress for souls, costs them nothing.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Christ, however, ministered to spiritual and physical needs (the former being the most important), and calls us to do likewise.\n\nToward others and ourselves. Religious affections become suspect when people are more bothered by the apathy and character defects of other Christians than by their own faults and sins. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Godly zeal shows a proper concern and opposition to the ruling and destructive sins of others, but retains the priority of opposing their own. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\n\nProper and Balanced in Religious “Attainments” and Priorities\nWhen people claim great spiritual achievements, but have yet to grasp the most basic elements of the Christian life, they fool themselves and others. For instance, if someone claims to be willing to suffer eternal damnation for God’s glory, yet refuses to endure the least inconvenience or loss to their worldly possessions or reputation, the assertion is meaningless. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>\n\nSimilarly, true religious affections desire and pursue the most vital spiritual concerns, while false affections neglect essentials and chase after things of less importance. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a> Moreover, some that are zealous and quick to proclaim their experiences show little interest in proper Christian priorities, such as “pouring out of the soul before God in secret, earnest prayer and praise to Him, and for more conformity to Him, and living more to His glory, etc.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\n\nProper and Balanced in Steadfastness\nEcstatic affections for God that regularly give way to unspiritual worldliness and disinterest in God and spiritual things show themselves untrustworthy or false. For example, Israel praised God’s rescue at the Red Sea, but quickly yearned for Egypt and worshipped a golden cow. Truly gracious affections, however, are of a more consistent and steadfast nature. “For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit” (Jer. 17:8). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a>\n\nProper and Balanced in Public and Private\nMany make a great show of love for God in the presence of others but have little “close meditation, secret prayer, and conversing with God, when alone and separated from all the world.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> “The hypocrite (says Mr. Flavel) is not for the closet, but the synagogue…. It is not his meat and drink to retire from the clamour of the world, to enjoy God in secret.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>The Lord is neglected secretly, yet honoured openly; because there is no wind in their chambers to blow their sails; and therefore there they stand still. Hence many men keep their profession when they lose their affection. They have by the one a name to live (and that is enough) though their hearts be dead. And hence so long as you love and commend them, so long they love you; but if not, they will forsake you. They were warm only by another’s fire, and hence, having no principle of life within, soon grow dead. This is the water that turns a Pharisee’s mill. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a></blockquote>\nDuring the height of the Awakening, people admired and gave a platform to those boasting of extraordinary religious experiences. But when the heat of the revival died down, and the honor given those claiming great experiences diminished or disappeared, the spiritual zeal of many grew cold as they turned their attention to worldly things. A true love for God, however, abides whether or not one is admired for it.\n\nNext up: “False affections rest satisfied in themselves.”\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 292; Yale, 365.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 292-3; Yale, 365.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 293; Yale, 366.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 294; Yale, 367-8.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 294; Yale, 368.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 295; Yale, 368.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 295; Yale, 369.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 296; Yale, 369-70.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 298; Yale, 371.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 297; Yale, 370.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 297; Yale, 370-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 297; Yale, 371.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 298-9; Yale, 372.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 300; Yale, 374.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> Flavel, Vol. V, 567; quoted in BT, 300, footnote; Yale, 374, footnote 4.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> Shepard, <em>Parable of the Ten Virgins</em>, 285; quoted in BT, 300, footnote; Yale, 374, footnote 4.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 25): Distinguishing Sign Ten: Gracious Affections Have a Beautiful Symmetry','','inherit','closed','closed','','12803-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:05','2023-03-21 09:47:05','',12803,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14682',0,'revision','',0),(14683,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:37','2023-03-21 09:47:37','False affections, even those derived from a fear of God’s judgment for sin, ultimately harden the heart and dull the conscience, making them less sensitive to sin and its deserved condemnation. True affections have the opposite effect, increasing a fear and disgust of sin from a sense and love of the beauty of holiness. A fear of God that stops short of true saving faith, or a fear of God relieved from deceptive experiences masquerading as conversion, ultimately lead to greater sinfulness and an immunity to Scripture’s warnings against moral evil.\n\nNo Fear\nThe fear of eternal condemnation by a just and holy God may produce a great fear of sin and, for a time, an abundance of outward moral behavior. The fear of judgment restrains sin. But, the restraint disappears through the deception of a conversion apart from faith in Christ, from the mistaken belief that one has been saved forever by a great experience, such as a vision of Christ and texts of Scripture coming to mind. The fear of judgment against sin thus removed, the unbeliever becomes immune to Scripture’s admonitions against sin. Lacking the new sense that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness, and relieved of the fear of God’s condemnation for sin, the results are predictable—the deception of a false conversion eventually bears ugly fruit. The deceived unbeliever becomes\n<blockquote>less affected with their present and past sins, and less conscientious with respect to future sins, less moved with the warnings and cautions of God’s word or God’s chastisements in His providence, more careless of the frame of their hearts and the manner and tendency of their behaviour, less quick-sighted to discern what is sinful, less afraid of the appearance of evil, than they were while they were under legal awakenings and fears of hell. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a></blockquote>\nA Minister of Sin\nIn a perverse role reversal, the One who saves the believer from their sins becomes for the falsely converted a savior to allow unbelievers to sin all the more, an advocate to keep God at bay as they pursue their lusts. Even as they “make a great profession of love to God, and assurance of His favour, and great joy in tasting the sweetness of His love,” they “trust Christ to preserve to them the quiet enjoyment of their sins, and to be their shield to defend them from God’s displeasure.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\n\nThese men “crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ” (Jude 4). True grace never leads to license. A false grace, or true grace assumed in a false conversion (lacking saving faith in Christ), including the false affections that flow from them, lead to worldliness and an apathetic, unholy life.\n\nThe Softening Effects of Gracious Affections\nA false conversion lacks the new nature and sense of the beauty of God’s holiness and therefore cannot see the hideous nature of sin. False believers may no longer fear hell, but they lack the childlike fear of displeasing God from a heart of true love for His infinite excellence and moral beauty. The believer, however, has become tender toward God, His commands, and others.\n\nEdwards likens the heart of the believer to that of a child, whose heart is compliant, sympathetic, easily moved to tears by the hurts of others, grieved by evil and miseries, and moved by goodness received. In the face of great adversaries, he knows his weakness and runs to his mother and father for safety, and is “suspicious of evil in places of danger, afraid in the dark, afraid when left alone, or far from home.” He looks up to superiors and desires to please them, fearing their disappointment and anger. So are God’s children toward others, the things of the world, and toward God as their loving Father. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nTrue grace, then, not only stimulates Christian joy and hope, <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> it improves the conscience and “makes it more able thoroughly to discern the sinfulness of that which is sinful, and to receive a greater conviction of the heinous and dreadful nature of sin.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The false affections of a false conversion ultimately deaden sensitivity and concern for sin. Presuming God’s condemnation no longer applies, the unbelieving heart remains blind to the beauty of holiness, void of a true love of God for His holy excellence, blind to the ugliness of sin, and dead to a childlike desire please God, without the fear of dishonoring Him.\n\nObjection: We Should Be Bold in Prayer and Worship\nChrist purchased the believer’s privilege to boldly approach God in prayer and worship. Yet, the boldness of entering God’s holy presence stands in contrast to our previous alienation and separation from Him and never denies the need for reverence and humility. “No boldness in poor sinful worms of the dust, that have a right sight of God and themselves, will prompt them to approach to God with less fear and reverence than spotless and glorious angels in heaven, who cover their faces before his throne.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “Gracious affections do not tend to make men bold, forward, noisy, and boisterous; but rather to speak trembling….It tends to clothe them with a kind of holy fear in all their behaviour towards God and man.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Edwards has in mind some of the loud, ostentatious, and proud itinerant preachers of the Great Awakening.\n<blockquote>There is in some persons a most unsuitable and insufferable boldness, in their addresses to the great Jehovah, in an affectation of a holy boldness, and ostentation of eminent nearness and familiarity; the very thoughts of which would make them shrink into nothing, with horror and confusion, if they saw the distance that is between God and them. They are like the Pharisee, that boldly came up near in a confidence of his own eminency in holiness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a></blockquote>\nEdwards never denies that true saints can freely approach God with the loving familiarity of a child to a father. But, even as God’s beloved children, we come to Him with the reverence He deserves. “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11).\n\nNext up: Gracious affections have a beautiful symmetry.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 285; Yale, 358.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 286-7; Yale, 359.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 287-8; Yale, 360-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 293; Yale, 364.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 290; Yale, 363.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 289; Yale, 361-2.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 288; Yale, 361.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 289-90; Yale, 362.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 24): Distinguishing Sign Nine: Gracious Affections Soften the Heart','','inherit','closed','closed','','12795-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:37','2023-03-21 09:47:37','',12795,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14683',0,'revision','',0),(14684,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:06','2023-03-21 09:47:06','','RA-beautiful-symmetry-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-beautiful-symmetry-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:47:06','2023-03-21 09:47:06','',12803,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/RA-beautiful-symmetry-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14685,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:11','2023-03-21 09:47:11','','RA-soften-the-heart-300W-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','ra-soften-the-heart-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:47:11','2023-03-21 09:47:11','',12795,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/RA-soften-the-heart-300W-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14686,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:14','2023-03-21 09:47:14','In the previous article we saw that, despite failures and backsliding, true affection for Christ produces obedience to Scripture, diligence, and perseverance in love and service to Christ, even in the face of intense opposition. Edwards explains <em>why</em> by showing how the previous eleven signs of true religious affections generate Christian practice.\r\n\r\nThe Indwelling Holy Spirit Generates Gracious Affections\r\nTrue religious affections arise as “a communication of God, a participation of the divine nature, Christ living in the heart” as the Holy Spirit exerts His nature in the thoughts, affections, and actions of the saint. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Believers united to Christ through saving faith partake of the risen and living Savior who, by His resurrection power, gives life to the dead and exerts Himself as God to transform us. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> “For the kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power” (1 Cor. 4:20 NAS). “For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake” (1 Thess. 1:5 NAS).\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Rest on the Infinite Excellence of God\r\nThe natural man pursues religion for its perks, but no further. He pursues Christian things so long as they further his personal objectives. But the saint’s service will not be so fickle, since its primary motive lies in the infinite and unchanging excellence of God. The benefits of salvation certainly enhance our love to God, but the beauty of His attributes form the chief basis of that love, the greatest blessing of all. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Rest on the Beauty of God’s Holiness\r\nThe moral excellence of God and His work form the ground of gracious affections, as the holiness of God forms the beauty of God’s attributes. “That which men love, they desire to have and to be united to, and possessed of. That beauty which men delight in, they desire to be adorned with. Those acts which men delight in, they necessarily incline to do.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Indeed, “By the sight of the transcendent glory of Christ, true Christians see Him worthy to be followed, and so are powerfully drawn after Him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Attend the Belief that Scripture Is True\r\nPeople lacking strong belief in God and the truthfulness of Scripture will never persevere in diligent service to Christ when things get tough. By contrast, those convinced of the truth, trustworthiness, and infinite value of Scripture and the Gospel obey their commands and understand that everything else is nothing by comparison. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Attend a Change of Nature\r\nPeople will never thoroughly change the essential character and pattern of their actions without a change of nature.\r\n<blockquote>Until the tree be made good, the fruit will not be good. Men do not gather grapes of thorns, nor figs of thistles. The swine may be washed and appear clean for a little while but yet, without a change of nature, he will still wallow in the mire. Nature is a more powerful principle of action than anything that opposes it: though is may be violently restrained for a while, it will finally overcome that which restrains it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nA few leaders of the Great Awakening appeared diligent in the things of Christ for a time, but because their nature had not been changed, they abandoned His service when the Awakening subsided. In contrast, new and true life in Christ abides in Christ.\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Attend Christian Humility\r\n“A proud spirit is a rebellious spirit,” while humility serves others and willingly submits to God’s authority in Scripture. Obedience to God’s commands more readily flows from a humble heart than a proud one. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Attend a Sweet, Lamb-like Spirit\r\nThe spirit that characterized Christ’s ministry, most distinctly in His peaceful obedience to the Father unto death, promotes and displays in believers sweet and selfless acts of love toward others from love to Christ.\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Attend a Tender and Teachable Heart\r\nThe heart sensitive to the ugliness and pain of moral evil fears its terrible influence and effects and actively works to oppose it.\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Have a Beautiful Symmetry\r\n“Universal, constant, and persevering” Christian practice flows from true affections that are “universal and constant in all kinds of holy exercises, and towards all objects, and in all circumstances, and at all seasons, in a beautiful symmetry and proportion.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Truly gracious affections produce a more constant, consistent, and properly balanced Christian practice.\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Increase the Desire for God and Spiritual Things\r\nAs we have seen, the desire for greater love and knowledge of the infinite excellence of God motivates greater enthusiasm, interest, commitment, and perseverance in Christian activity and service.\r\n\r\nThus, all the signs Edwards identifies as evidence of a true work of the Holy Spirit in a believer promote Christian practice.\r\n\r\nNext up: More evidence that gracious affections produce Christian works.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 314-5; Yale, 392.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 315; Yale, 392.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 316; Yale, 393-4.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 317; Yale, 394.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 317; Yale, 395.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 317-8; Yale, 395.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 318; Yale, 395.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 318-9; Yale, 396.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 319; Yale, 396.</p>\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 28): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (2)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12852-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:14','2023-03-21 09:47:14','',12852,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14686',0,'revision','',0),(14687,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:18','2023-03-21 09:47:18','We come to the final sign of a true work of God in the heart of a believer, what Edwards considers “the chief of all the signs of grace”—Christian practice. As the net effect, or that which flows from the preceding eleven distinguishing signs, a holy life constitutes the best evidence of true faith in those professing faith in Christ, both outwardly to observers and inwardly to one’s own conscience. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Produce Obedience\r\nTrue Christians obey Scripture. “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:14). “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure,” and “we know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not” (1 John 3:3, 5:18). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nFor Edwards, Christian practice includes positive acts of obedience to God’s Word in service and charity, and the obedience of abstaining from wickedness and things contrary to the commands of God. Behavior fitting of the Gospel involves more than a life of moral respectability. It includes a\r\n<blockquote>serious, religious, devout, humble, meek, forgiving, peaceful, respectful, condescending, benevolent, merciful, charitable and beneficent walk and conversation. Without such things a these, he does not obey the laws of Christ, laws that He and His apostles did abundantly insist on as of the greatest importance and necessity. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nWhen Christ returns to judge the earth, He will separate the sheep from the goats according to the presence or absence of love displayed in good works toward Him. To the sheep, He will say, “I was hungry, and you gave Me <em>something</em> to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me,” for, “inasmuch as ye have done <em>it</em> unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done <em>it</em> unto me.” Bearing the marks of love to Christ, the sheep shall enter into eternal life, while goats lacking such love are banished “into everlasting punishment” (Matt. 25:35-6, 46 NAS).\r\n\r\nEdwards never advocates salvation by the good works of fallen sinners. On the contrary, the context of the Edwards’ argument here, and consistently throughout <em>Religious Affections</em>, presents <em>evidence</em> of a redeemed heart, the heart transformed by grace and saving faith in Christ. Christ, alone, met God’s just requirement of perfect obedience for eternal life. Christ, alone, met the standard of perfect righteousness and paid the required penalty for disobedience by bearing for us the weight of God’s wrath on the cross. Believers stand justified before God by the imputed righteousness of Christ, alone. At the same time, as Edwards argues throughout the treatise, the Spirit of God gives new life and produces Christian works in every justified believer.\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Produce Diligence\r\nService to Christ is no halfhearted enterprise in second or third place behind worldly pursuits. Christ stands as the believer’s greatest love and first priority. Indeed, He “gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Tit. 2:13-14). Our diligence, then, increases assurance and hope. “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Heb. 6:11-12 NAS). True faith in Christ will “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:13-14). In Christ’s parable of the talents, the servants who used their master’s talents to produce more were rewarded, while the “unprofitable” servant who did nothing with his talent was thrown into “outer darkness” (Matt. 25:14-30). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGracious Affections Produce Perseverance\r\nA true zeal for obedience and Christian works endures. Many enthusiastic participants in the Great Awakening, however, lost an apparent love for God when the heat and excitement of the awakening died down and the social benefits of associating oneself with Christ dwindled. Some cut and ran after the next promising venture. “And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Matt. 24:12-13).\r\n\r\nEvery true believer echoes the cry of Peter, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life” (John 6:68 NAS). Thus, every saint perseveres from a love to Christ, despite the opposition. “And ye shall be hated of all <em>men</em> for my name\\\'s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matt. 10:22). “If ye continue in my word, <em>then</em> are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31). “And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). “Take care, brethren, lest there should be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God…. For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end” (Heb. 3:12, 14 NAS).\r\n<blockquote>Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay. But My righteous one shall live by faith; And if he shrinks back, My soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul (Heb. 10:35-39 NAS).</blockquote>\r\n“And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father” (Rev. 2:26-27). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nQualification\r\nAll true believers stumble in many ways, sometimes badly. But, those justified and transformed by the indwelling Holy Spirit will not fall into a continual dislike and disregard of serving Christ. Jesus remains the saint’s ultimate object of love and trust.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> Therefore, “let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith” (Gal. 6:9-10 NAS).\r\n\r\nNext up: Why gracious affections produce Christian works.\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 326-7; Yale, 406.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 309-10; Yale, 384-7.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 310; Yale, 386-7.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 310-12; Yale, 387-8.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 312-3; Yale, 388-9.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 313; Yale, 390.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 27): Distinguishing Sign Twelve: Gracious Affections Produce Christian Works (1)','','inherit','closed','closed','','12839-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:18','2023-03-21 09:47:18','',12839,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14687',0,'revision','',0),(14688,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:22','2023-03-21 09:47:22','The believer’s new sense and love of the beauty of God’s holiness produces a desire for more love to God, more regret that we do not love Him more, greater grief over sin, and more longing for personal holiness. Indeed, the more we grow in Christ, the more we seek to grow in Christ. The true believer never rests satisfied in deliverance from condemnation with no further desire to grow in the love and knowledge of God. On the contrary, knowing something of God’s infinite excellence, we continually seek to know and love Him more. By contrast, “false affections rest satisfied in themselves.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nThirsty\r\nSaints have been born again. And as “newborn babes” adopted into God’s family, we “desire the sincere milk of the word” that we might grow (1 Pet. 2:2). And as we develop and mature in Christ, our desire increases all the more. The greater our maturity and holiness, the greater will be our “spiritual appetite” for holiness, and the higher will be our “holy affections” toward God. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> With the Apostle Paul, we say,\r\n<blockquote>I do not regard myself as having laid hold of <em>it</em> yet; but one thing <em>I do</em>: forgetting what <em>lies</em> behind and reaching forward to what <em>lies</em> ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude (Phil. 3:13-15 NAS).</blockquote>\r\nGrowth in spiritual maturity neither removes or reduces the desire for spiritual growth, but nurtures and increases it. We have been given “but a taste” in this world, a down payment of our inheritance and the fullness of glory that awaits us in the next. God has “sealed us and gave <em>us</em> the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge” (2 Cor. 1:22 NAS). Having savored but a portion, we hunger for the entire feast. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nWhy Gracious Affections Increase Our Spiritual Appetite for God\r\nThe greater our holy affections toward God, the more we perceive the beauty of God’s holiness and how far we fall short. Greater grace gives greater sight of God’s excellence and a better view of our “imperfection and emptiness” by comparison. As a result, we desire to grow. Grace and faith cry, “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). “The greater spiritual discoveries and affections that a true Christian has, the more does he become an earnest beggar for grace and spiritual food, that he may grow.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nObjection: Don’t Spiritual Blessings Satisfy the Soul?\r\nAt first glance, an ever-increasing appetite for God might seem contrary to the soul-satisfying nature of God’s spiritual blessings. But, relative to the things of the world, God’s spiritual blessings satisfy the deepest needs of the soul, whereas the things of the world do not.\r\n\r\nFirst, God has given us that which is “fully adapted to the nature, capacity, and need of the soul of man.” The solution matches the need, while the believer knows that seeking for true happiness elsewhere is futile. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nSecond, God’s spiritual blessings do not disappoint, but “fully answer and satisfy” the believer’s expectation of spiritual satisfaction, something the things of the world cannot do. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> Wayward quests for fulfillment apart from God leave us high and dry.\r\n\r\nThird, not only do the world’s delights fail to meet our spiritual needs, the shallow satisfaction they provide soon disappears. Like a good meal, pleasure recedes with each bite, while hunger returns in the morning. God’s spiritual blessings, however, last forever. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nAnd fourth, while we do not fully experience the joy of God’s blessings this side of glory, they remain sufficient to satisfy to an infinite degree and, someday, they will. God’s blessings are an “infinite ocean,” hindered only by our own limitations and imperfections. “If men be not satisfied here as to degree of happiness, the cause is with themselves; it is because they do not open their mouths wide enough.” We look forward to the day when our defects disappear forever and our happiness is full to overflowing. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nTherefore, God’s spiritual blessings satisfy the soul, but imperfectly in this life. “The more a man experiences and knows this excellent, unparalleled, exquisite, and satisfying sweetness, the more earnestly will he hunger and thirst for more, until he comes to perfection.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nThe Nature of False Religious Affections\r\nUnlike true affections, false affections rest satisfied in their supposed religious attainments. If an unbeliever seeks God’s grace to remove the fear of hell and God’s condemnation, and then feels joy by assuming the danger has been removed by trust in an experience or anything short of saving faith in Christ, seeking God will disappear. Once the reason to seek God has been satisfied in the mind of the unbeliever, no reason remains to continue seeking His grace.\r\n\r\nBelievers, however, persist. Not that we are insecure of our salvation, or continue seeking God to be saved. Rather, we know His infinite excellence and grace and seek for more. Thus, “Seeking God is spoken of as one of the distinguishing characters of the saints, and ‘Seekers after God’ is one of the names by which the godly are called in Scripture.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> “Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: and let such as love thy salvation say continually, Let God be magnified” (Ps. 70:4). Not so with false affections.\r\n<blockquote>When false affections are raised very high, they put an end to longings after grace and holiness. The man now is far from appearing to himself a poor empty creature; on the contrary he is rich, and increased with goods, and hardly conceives of anything more excellent than what he has already attained to. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nDelivered from condemnation and guaranteed a heavenly home, what’s left to pursue? Lacking a true love of God’s infinite excellence and holy character, the unbeliever deceived into thinking he is right with God has no need to seek Him further.\r\n\r\nNonetheless, false affections may accompany an apparent seeking after God, such as the pursuit of temporal benefits. For example, during the Great Awakening, those testifying of extraordinary experiences were sometimes viewed as spiritually superior to others. Thus, some would continue “seeking God” and uncommon experiences to reinforce their elevated position as a spiritual leader and to maintain the approval of others. Such seeking, however, came not from a love of God’s holiness or a desire to be holy, but for blessings. One can love blessings without loving God. Some also sought greater experiences and “discoveries” that they might reinforce the false assurance built on them. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nThe new sense of the beauty of God’s holiness that captivates the believer’s heart drives an enduring pursuit after God. “The same sweetness that is the chief object of a spiritual taste, is also the chief object of a spiritual appetite.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\r\n<blockquote>Neither a longing after great discoveries or after great tastes of the love of God, nor a longing to be in heaven, nor a longing to die, are in any measure so distinguishing marks of trues saints as longing after a more holy heart, and after living a more holy life. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nOf course, believers long for all these things, but the desire for holiness more clearly displays a new heart that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness.\r\n\r\nNext up: Gracious affections produce Christian practice.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 303; Yale, 376-7.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 303, Yale, 377.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 304; Yale, 378.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 304-5; Yale, 378-9.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 305; Yale, 379.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 306; Yale, 381.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 306; Yale, 380.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 307; Yale, 382.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 308; Yale, 383.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 26): Distinguishing Sign Eleven: True Affections Desire Growth, False Affections Rest Satisfied','','inherit','closed','closed','','12827-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:22','2023-03-21 09:47:22','',12827,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14688',0,'revision','',0),(14689,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:27','2023-03-21 09:47:27','Edwards begins the discussion of sign ten with the caveat that perfection awaits us in heaven, a truth that applies to every distinguishing sign. We have all carried into our new and transformed life in Christ a trainload of unholy baggage, including bad habits, wrong thinking, character weaknesses, etc. Nonetheless, the extraordinary change that comes with saving faith in Christ includes a harmonious balance of true religious affections. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nUniversal Change\r\nBelievers are recreated in the whole image of Christ, receiving every grace He purchased for us. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Therefore, those united to Christ by faith reflect “something of the same beautiful proportion in the image which is in the original,” as “there is a symmetry and beauty in all of God’s workmanship.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> “The natural body, which God hath made, consists of many members; and all are in a beautiful proportion. So it is in the new man, consisting of various graces and affections.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nProper and Balanced in Kind\r\nSome false believers have great confidence that God loves them supremely, but lack a proper reverence and fear of dishonoring Him by sin. In believers, however, joy and fear exist together with “godly sorrow and mourning for sin,” such as when Christ’s disciples discovered the empty tomb: “they departed quickly from the sepulcher, with fear and great joy” (Mat. 28:8). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> “Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4). A sense of the beauty of holiness laments the ugliness of sin.\r\n\r\nProper and Balanced in Their Objects\r\n<em>Toward God and people.</em> Affections give evidence of being false when they attend claims of great love to God and Christ without a love or desire for the good of other people. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20 NAS).\r\n\r\n<em>Toward friends and adversaries.</em> Some people only love those “that approve of them, love them and admire them,” but strongly reject and fight against those that do not. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> But, this comes natural to a child of Adam. “For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax-gatherers do the same?” (Matt. 5:46 NAS).\r\n\r\n<em>Toward people near and far.</em> Some profess love and concern for friends, neighbors, and even believers they have never met, but neglect their God-given responsibility to love their own spouse and children. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> True affections maintain a better order and balance of priorities.\r\n\r\n<em>Toward physical and spiritual needs of people.</em> Some give generously to meet physical needs but neglect the greater needs of the soul. Others feign concern for the souls of people while ignoring physical needs because “a great show of love, pity, and distress for souls, costs them nothing.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Christ, however, ministered to spiritual and physical needs (the former being the most important), and calls us to do likewise.\r\n\r\nToward others and ourselves. Religious affections become suspect when people are more bothered by the apathy and character defects of other Christians than by their own faults and sins. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Godly zeal shows a proper concern and opposition to the ruling and destructive sins of others, but retains the priority of opposing their own. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nProper and Balanced in Religious “Attainments” and Priorities\r\nWhen people claim great spiritual achievements, but have yet to grasp the most basic elements of the Christian life, they fool themselves and others. For instance, if someone claims to be willing to suffer eternal damnation for God’s glory, yet refuses to endure the least inconvenience or loss to their worldly possessions or reputation, the assertion is meaningless. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nSimilarly, true religious affections desire and pursue the most vital spiritual concerns, while false affections neglect essentials and chase after things of less importance. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a> Moreover, some that are zealous and quick to proclaim their experiences show little interest in proper Christian priorities, such as “pouring out of the soul before God in secret, earnest prayer and praise to Him, and for more conformity to Him, and living more to His glory, etc.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nProper and Balanced in Steadfastness\r\nEcstatic affections for God that regularly give way to unspiritual worldliness and disinterest in God and spiritual things show themselves untrustworthy or false. For example, Israel praised God’s rescue at the Red Sea, but quickly yearned for Egypt and worshipped a golden cow. Truly gracious affections, however, are of a more consistent and steadfast nature. “For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit” (Jer. 17:8). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nProper and Balanced in Public and Private\r\nMany make a great show of love for God in the presence of others but have little “close meditation, secret prayer, and conversing with God, when alone and separated from all the world.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> “The hypocrite (says Mr. Flavel) is not for the closet, but the synagogue…. It is not his meat and drink to retire from the clamour of the world, to enjoy God in secret.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\r\n<blockquote>The Lord is neglected secretly, yet honoured openly; because there is no wind in their chambers to blow their sails; and therefore there they stand still. Hence many men keep their profession when they lose their affection. They have by the one a name to live (and that is enough) though their hearts be dead. And hence so long as you love and commend them, so long they love you; but if not, they will forsake you. They were warm only by another’s fire, and hence, having no principle of life within, soon grow dead. This is the water that turns a Pharisee’s mill. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nDuring the height of the Awakening, people admired and gave a platform to those boasting of extraordinary religious experiences. But when the heat of the revival died down, and the honor given those claiming great experiences diminished or disappeared, the spiritual zeal of many grew cold as they turned their attention to worldly things. A true love for God, however, abides whether or not one is admired for it.\r\n\r\nNext up: “False affections rest satisfied in themselves.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 292; Yale, 365.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 292-3; Yale, 365.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 293; Yale, 366.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 294; Yale, 367-8.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 294; Yale, 368.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 295; Yale, 368.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 295; Yale, 369.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 296; Yale, 369-70.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 298; Yale, 371.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 297; Yale, 370.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 297; Yale, 370-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 297; Yale, 371.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 298-9; Yale, 372.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 300; Yale, 374.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> Flavel, Vol. V, 567; quoted in BT, 300, footnote; Yale, 374, footnote 4.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> Shepard, <em>Parable of the Ten Virgins</em>, 285; quoted in BT, 300, footnote; Yale, 374, footnote 4.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 25): Distinguishing Sign Ten: Gracious Affections Have a Beautiful Symmetry','','inherit','closed','closed','','12803-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:27','2023-03-21 09:47:27','',12803,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14689',0,'revision','',0),(14690,1,'2023-03-21 09:47:32','2023-03-21 09:47:32','False affections, even those derived from a fear of God’s judgment for sin, ultimately harden the heart and dull the conscience, making them less sensitive to sin and its deserved condemnation. True affections have the opposite effect, increasing a fear and disgust of sin from a sense and love of the beauty of holiness. A fear of God that stops short of true saving faith, or a fear of God relieved from deceptive experiences masquerading as conversion, ultimately lead to greater sinfulness and an immunity to Scripture’s warnings against moral evil.\r\n\r\nNo Fear\r\nThe fear of eternal condemnation by a just and holy God may produce a great fear of sin and, for a time, an abundance of outward moral behavior. The fear of judgment restrains sin. But, the restraint disappears through the deception of a conversion apart from faith in Christ, from the mistaken belief that one has been saved forever by a great experience, such as a vision of Christ and texts of Scripture coming to mind. The fear of judgment against sin thus removed, the unbeliever becomes immune to Scripture’s admonitions against sin. Lacking the new sense that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness, and relieved of the fear of God’s condemnation for sin, the results are predictable—the deception of a false conversion eventually bears ugly fruit. The deceived unbeliever becomes\r\n<blockquote>less affected with their present and past sins, and less conscientious with respect to future sins, less moved with the warnings and cautions of God’s word or God’s chastisements in His providence, more careless of the frame of their hearts and the manner and tendency of their behaviour, less quick-sighted to discern what is sinful, less afraid of the appearance of evil, than they were while they were under legal awakenings and fears of hell. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nA Minister of Sin\r\nIn a perverse role reversal, the One who saves the believer from their sins becomes for the falsely converted a savior to allow unbelievers to sin all the more, an advocate to keep God at bay as they pursue their lusts. Even as they “make a great profession of love to God, and assurance of His favour, and great joy in tasting the sweetness of His love,” they “trust Christ to preserve to them the quiet enjoyment of their sins, and to be their shield to defend them from God’s displeasure.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nThese men “crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ” (Jude 4). True grace never leads to license. A false grace, or true grace assumed in a false conversion (lacking saving faith in Christ), including the false affections that flow from them, lead to worldliness and an apathetic, unholy life.\r\n\r\nThe Softening Effects of Gracious Affections\r\nA false conversion lacks the new nature and sense of the beauty of God’s holiness and therefore cannot see the hideous nature of sin. False believers may no longer fear hell, but they lack the childlike fear of displeasing God from a heart of true love for His infinite excellence and moral beauty. The believer, however, has become tender toward God, His commands, and others.\r\n\r\nEdwards likens the heart of the believer to that of a child, whose heart is compliant, sympathetic, easily moved to tears by the hurts of others, grieved by evil and miseries, and moved by goodness received. In the face of great adversaries, he knows his weakness and runs to his mother and father for safety, and is “suspicious of evil in places of danger, afraid in the dark, afraid when left alone, or far from home.” He looks up to superiors and desires to please them, fearing their disappointment and anger. So are God’s children toward others, the things of the world, and toward God as their loving Father. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nTrue grace, then, not only stimulates Christian joy and hope, <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> it improves the conscience and “makes it more able thoroughly to discern the sinfulness of that which is sinful, and to receive a greater conviction of the heinous and dreadful nature of sin.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The false affections of a false conversion ultimately deaden sensitivity and concern for sin. Presuming God’s condemnation no longer applies, the unbelieving heart remains blind to the beauty of holiness, void of a true love of God for His holy excellence, blind to the ugliness of sin, and dead to a childlike desire please God, without the fear of dishonoring Him.\r\n\r\nObjection: We Should Be Bold in Prayer and Worship\r\nChrist purchased the believer’s privilege to boldly approach God in prayer and worship. Yet, the boldness of entering God’s holy presence stands in contrast to our previous alienation and separation from Him and never denies the need for reverence and humility. “No boldness in poor sinful worms of the dust, that have a right sight of God and themselves, will prompt them to approach to God with less fear and reverence than spotless and glorious angels in heaven, who cover their faces before his throne.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “Gracious affections do not tend to make men bold, forward, noisy, and boisterous; but rather to speak trembling….It tends to clothe them with a kind of holy fear in all their behaviour towards God and man.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Edwards has in mind some of the loud, ostentatious, and proud itinerant preachers of the Great Awakening.\r\n<blockquote>There is in some persons a most unsuitable and insufferable boldness, in their addresses to the great Jehovah, in an affectation of a holy boldness, and ostentation of eminent nearness and familiarity; the very thoughts of which would make them shrink into nothing, with horror and confusion, if they saw the distance that is between God and them. They are like the Pharisee, that boldly came up near in a confidence of his own eminency in holiness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nEdwards never denies that true saints can freely approach God with the loving familiarity of a child to a father. But, even as God’s beloved children, we come to Him with the reverence He deserves. “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11).\r\n\r\nNext up: Gracious affections have a beautiful symmetry.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 285; Yale, 358.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 286-7; Yale, 359.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 287-8; Yale, 360-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 293; Yale, 364.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 290; Yale, 363.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 289; Yale, 361-2.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 288; Yale, 361.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 289-90; Yale, 362.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 24): Distinguishing Sign Nine: Gracious Affections Soften the Heart','','inherit','closed','closed','','12795-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:47:32','2023-03-21 09:47:32','',12795,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14690',0,'revision','',0),(14691,1,'2023-03-21 09:50:58','2023-03-21 09:50:58','','christ-like-demeanor-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','christ-like-demeanor-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:50:58','2023-03-21 09:50:58','',12781,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/christ-like-demeanor-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14692,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:02','2023-03-21 09:51:02','','change-of-nature-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','change-of-nature-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:51:02','2023-03-21 09:51:02','',12768,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/change-of-nature-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14693,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:06','2023-03-21 09:51:06','','humility-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','humility-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:51:06','2023-03-21 09:51:06','',12759,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/humility-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14694,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:12','2023-03-21 09:51:12','In addition to giving a sense of the beauty of God’s holiness and all that flows from it, the indwelling Holy Spirit conforms us to the character of our Savior. True religious affections “naturally beget and promote such a spirit of love, meekness, quietness, forgiveness and mercy, as appeared in Christ.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nThe Christian Demeanor\nScripture says a great deal about the manner of a true believer. “Blessed <em>are</em> the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5-9). “Love is patient, love is kind, <em>and</em> is not jealous; love does not brag <em>and</em> is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong <em>suffered</em>” (1 Corinthians 13:4-5 NAS). “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Gal 5:22-23). “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also <em>do</em> ye” (Colossians 3:12-13). “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, <em>and</em> easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\n\nLove, Meekness, Quietness, Forgiveness, and Mercy Characterized Christ\n“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (Matthew 11:29). \\\"Say to the daughter of Zion, \\\'Behold your King is coming to you, gentle, and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.\\\'\\\" (Matthew 21:5 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> And nowhere did Christ display His demeanor more clearly than in His willing and quiet submission to the cross.\n\nGod Seeks to Make Us Like Christ\n“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate <em>to be</em> conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren” (Romans 8:29). “And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly” (1 Corinthians 15:49). “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, <em>even</em> as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18). In Christ, we “have put on the new <em>man</em>, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:10).\n\nChristians Reflect the Character of Christ\nWhile we remain imperfect this side of glory, “Christians who shine by reflecting the light of the Sun of Righteousness shine with the same sort of brightness, the same mild, sweet, and pleasant beams.” “A Christian spirit is Christ’s mark that he sets upon the souls of his people; His seal in their foreheads, bearing his image and superscription.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> “And in this respect the church is clothed with the sun, not only by being clothed with His imputed righteousness, but also by being adorned with his graces.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> United to Christ by faith, we possess the two-fold righteousness of Christ—His imputed righteousness by which we are justified, and His imparted righteousness by which the Holy Spirit produces Christ’s character within us.\n\n“The Spirit that descended on Christ when he was anointed of the Father, descended on him like a dove. The dove is a noted emblem of meekness, harmlessness, peace and love. But the same Spirit that descended on the Head of the church descends to the members.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” (Galatians 4:6). But, “if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9). In fact, the terms <em>meek</em> and <em>godly</em> are used as synonyms in contrast to the wicked. “The LORD lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground” (Psalm 147:6; see also 37:10-1). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\n\nGod honors the childlike humility of saving faith. “Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3-4). Christ so identifies humility with the manner of His saints that He calls us His “little children” (John 13:33).\n\nObjection: Spiritual Warfare Requires Strength and Boldness for Christ\nTrue, but what constitutes Christian strength and boldness?\n<blockquote>It is an exceeding diverse thing from a brutal fierceness, or the boldness of beasts of prey. True Christian fortitude consists in strength of mind, through grace, exerted in two things; in ruling and suppressing the evil and unruly passions and affections of the mind; and in steadfastly and freely exerting and following good affections and dispositions, without being hindered by sinful fear or the opposition of enemies. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a></blockquote>\nEdwards observed in a number of vigorous supporters of the Awakening that “the passions that are restrained and kept under, in the exercise of this Christian strength and fortitude, are those very passions that are vigorously and violently exerted in a false boldness for Christ.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> “The strength of the good soldier of Jesus Christ appears in nothing more than in steadfastly maintaining the holy calm, meekness, sweetness, and benevolence of his mind, amidst all the storms, injuries, strange behaviour, and surprising acts and events of this evil and unreasonable world.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>\n\nChrist provides the supreme example of strength and boldness in His suffering at the hands of wicked and vicious enemies.\n<blockquote>How did He show His holy boldness and valour at that time? Not in the exercise of any fiery passions; not in fierce and violent speeches, vehemently declaiming against the intolerable wickedness of opposers, giving them their own in plain terms: but in not opening His mouth when afflicted and oppressed, in going as a lamb to the slaughter, and, as a sheep before his shearers is dumb, not opening his mouth; praying that the Father would forgive His cruel enemies because they knew not what they did; not shedding others’ blood, but with all-conquering patience and love shedding His own. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a></blockquote>\nIn contrast, much of what passes for Christian “boldness” may be nothing more than pride. Some may oppose and willingly bear the scorn of a wicked culture because their peers admire them for it. The spiritually prideful seek “distinction and singularity; and so oftentimes to set themselves at war with those that they call carnal, that they may be more highly exalted among their party.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> Thus, “to maintain their interest in the love of godly men, they will suffer much.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\n\nMoreover, true Christian boldness has the courage and humility to admit failure before enemies, showing “vastly greater evidence of holy boldness than resolutely and fiercely confronting opposers.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\n\nObjection: Christians Should Have Zeal for Christ\nTrue, but Christian zeal is a “sweet” flame of “divine love or Christian charity, which is the sweetest and most benevolent thing that is, or can be, in the heart of man or angel.” Further, “nothing in a true Christian zeal…is contrary to that spirit of meekness, gentleness, and love, that spirit of a little child, a lamb and dove, that has been spoken of; but is entirely agreeable to it, and tends to promote it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> The same Holy Spirit that produces the amiable “fruits of the Spirit” produces godly zeal.\n\nForgiveness, Love, and Mercy Belong to the Character of Every Christian\nGod commands us to forgive our debtors (Matthew 6:12), even “seventy times seven” times (Matthew 18:21-22). “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15).\n\nTrue believers love God and others. “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me” (John 14:21). By this we not only follow Christ’s example, but give assurance to our heart and to others that we are indeed Christians. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1 John 4:7-8). “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him” (1 John 3:18-19). “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar” (1 John 4:20). “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit” (1 John 4:12-13). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a>\n\nAnd, saints are merciful and generous (Psalm 37:21). “Blessed <em>are</em> the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, <em>and</em> to keep himself unspotted from the world” (James 1:27). “But whoever has the world\\\'s goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:17 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\n\nProper Evidence\nTo conclude, a tree is known by its fruit, and not by uncertain signs of an uncertain origin, such as testimonies of visions and extraordinary experiences.\n<blockquote>Ministers, and others, have no warrant from Christ to encourage persons that are of a contrary character and behaviour to think they are converted, because they tell a fair story of illuminations and discoveries. In so doing, they would set up their own wisdom against Christ’s, and judge against that rule by which Christ has declared all men should know his disciples. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a></blockquote>\nThe character of Christ displayed in us provides a more reliable evidence of true faith in Christ.\n\nNext up: Gracious affections “soften the heart.”\n\n&nbsp;\n\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 272; Yale, 344-5.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 272-3; Yale, 345-6.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 273-4; Yale, 346-7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 274; Yale, 347.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 275; Yale, 347.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 275; Yale, 348.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 276; Yale, 349.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 277; Yale, 350.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 277-8; Yale, 350.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 278; Yale, 350.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 278-9; Yale, 351.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 279; Yale, 352.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> Shepard, <em>Parable of the Ten Virgins</em>, 285; quoted in BT, 280, footnote; Yale, 352, footnote 7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 280; Yale, 352.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 280; Yale, 352-3.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> See also John 13:34-5, 15:17; 1 John 1:2:9-10, 3:14, 23; 4:12-13.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> See also Psalm 37:26, 112:9; Proverbs 14:31, Jeremiah 22:16, Hosea 6:6.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 284; Yale, 356.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 23): Distinguishing Sign Eight: Gracious Affections Produce a Christ-Like Demeanor','','inherit','closed','closed','','12781-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:12','2023-03-21 09:51:12','',12781,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14694',0,'revision','',0),(14695,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:13','2023-03-21 09:51:13','','affections-certainty-divine-things-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','affections-certainty-divine-things-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:51:13','2023-03-21 09:51:13','',12743,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/affections-certainty-divine-things-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14696,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:13','2023-03-21 09:51:13','As with all of the previous distinguishing signs of a true work of God, sign seven consists of another effect of the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer, imparting His character to the soul, and giving true spiritual understanding—He transforms our nature. Moreover, the sense that views, comprehends, and loves the beauty of God’s holiness remains forever, as do all of the effects that flow from this sense. Thus, by this divine work in salvation, the nature of the soul is changed forever.\n\nOnly God Can Change Our Nature\nAs we have seen, religious affections have many natural causes. Yet, natural things cannot alter the nature of soul and produce the gracious affections that accompany salvation. Affections may be elevated for a good many reasons, but only God can change our nature. God, alone, can give us a new heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Therefore, the religious affections generated by natural and temporary things, apart from saving faith in Christ, give no sure evidence of God’s saving work.\n\nMoreover, the non-saving acts of the Holy Spirit to convict the conscience or give unbelievers a greater view of God’s perfections, including His judgment against sin, do not change the soul. Unbelievers subject to these common works of the Spirit remain spiritually dead and blind to the beauty of the holiness God and divine things until the Spirit takes up residence in the heart. And when He does, He transforms us.\n\nGod Changes Our Nature in Salvation\nThe Holy Spirit indwells and changes our nature at the point of saving faith in Christ.\n<blockquote>Scripture representations of conversion do strongly imply and signify a change of nature: such as ‘being born again; becoming new creatures; rising from the dead; being renewed in the spirit of the mind, dying to sin, and living to righteousness; putting off the old man, and putting on the new man; a being ingrafted into a new stock; a having a divine seed implanted in the heart; a being made partakers of the divine nature,’ etc. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a></blockquote>\nGod Permanently Changes the Inclination of The Heart from Sin to Himself\nSalvation includes the new sense that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness and hates the ugliness of sin. The believer turns from a love of darkness to a heart of love that seeks the honor of God in thought, word, and deed.\n<blockquote>Conversion is a great and universal change of the man, turning him from sin to God. A man may be restrained from sin, before he is converted; but when he is converted, he is not only restrained from sin, his very heart and nature is turned from it unto holiness: so that thenceforward he becomes a holy person, and an enemy to sin. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></blockquote>\nAnd the change is permanent. During the Awakening, some viewed the temporary nature of their experience as evidence of its divine origin. When the affections departed and they were “left wholly without any life or sense, or anything beyond what they had before,” they concluded the episode must have been from God.\n\nBut, regardless of the visions, imaginations, and Scripture texts that may have come to mind, or the extraordinary nature of one’s experience, testimony, and seemingly supernatural origin and intensity of religious affections, if the heart eventually returns to its previous love and pursuit of moral darkness, all are vain if the nature has not been permanently changed.\n<blockquote>If there be a very great alteration visible in a person for a while, if it be not abiding, but he afterwards returns…to be much as he used to be; it appears to be no change of nature, for nature is an abiding thing. A swine that is of a filthy nature may be washed, but the swinish nature remains; and a dove that is of a cleanly nature may be defiled, but its cleanly nature remains.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></blockquote>\nAgain, at the moment of saving faith in Christ, the moment we are completely justified by the imputed righteousness of Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us forever, giving a new nature, and producing in and though us His holy character.\n\nPerfection in Glory\nIn giving us the Holy Spirit, God gives us new life in Christ. But while the change in us is profound and lasting, sinless purity awaits in the life to come. “Conversion does not entirely root out the natural temper; those sins which a man by his natural constitution was most inclined to before his conversion, he may be most apt to fall into still.” Nonetheless, “conversion will make a great alteration even with respect to these sins. Though grace, while imperfect, does not root out an evil natural temper, yet it is of great power…to correct it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nGrowth in godliness continues until perfection in heaven. As we increase in the knowledge and love of God’s infinite excellence, we are transformed into Christ’s spiritual image as we diligently pursue Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2). Indeed, as Christ tells us: “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).\n\nUp next: True religious affections produce the demeanor of Christ.\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 267; Yale, 340.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 267; Yale, 340-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 268; Yale, 341.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> Ibid.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 22): Distinguishing Sign Seven: Gracious Affections Accompany a Change of Nature','','inherit','closed','closed','','12768-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:13','2023-03-21 09:51:13','',12768,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14696',0,'revision','',0),(14697,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:14','2023-03-21 09:51:14','We have seen that gracious affections stand on the excellence of God, that holiness comprises the beauty of the excellence of God and divine things, and that gracious affections arise from the spiritual sense to see, comprehend, and love the beauty of God’s holiness. Moreover, as spiritual sight and understanding of the holy beauty of God and divine things produces “a reasonable and spiritual conviction of the reality and certainty of divine things,” it also produces humility.\n\n“Evangelical” versus “Natural” Humility\nEdwards distinguishes between “evangelical” and “legal” humiliation. Legal humiliation is natural to all people and often comes by the Holy Spirit assisting the conscience, and may include a sense of God’s natural attributes and judgment against sin. Evangelical humiliation is peculiar to believers and comes from the Holy Spirit dwelling and exerting Himself within the saint, giving a sense of the moral beauty of God and His works and the vile and hateful nature of sin. In legal humiliation, unbelievers may have an active conscience and sense their smallness before God, but lack the new heart and spiritual understanding that seeks to glorify God and obey His will from love for Him. Legally humbled unbelievers may be brought to see their helplessness and forced into humility, while the believer willingly denies self and yields to God from a humble delight in Him. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> “Evangelical humiliation is a sense that a Christian has of his own utter insufficiency, despicableness, and odiousness, with an answerable frame of heart.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\n\nAnd, as “common knowledge” of biblical truth precedes spiritual understanding of the beauty of God’s holiness, God may use legal humiliation to produce and nurture true humility. Nonetheless, legal humiliation has no “true virtue” before God. People can be humbled without being truly humble. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nHumility Is an Essential Part of True Belief\nGod designed redemption to make us humble. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit” Psalm 34:18. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise” Psalm 51:17. “Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly” Psalm 138:6. “Blessed <em>are</em> the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nHumility Is an Essential Part of Self-Denial\nEdwards identifies two elements of true self-denial: 1) the denial of worldly desires, things, and pleasures; and, 2) the denial of self-exaltation and our “dignity and glory.” Unbelievers more easily imitate the former, while the latter and more difficult of the two, the believer does in evangelical humiliation. “It is inexpressible…how strong a self-righteous, self-exalting disposition is naturally in man; and what he will not do and suffer to feed and gratify it: and what lengths have been gone in a seeming self-denial in other respects.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> History abounds with people abandoning worldly pleasures and riches, yet, “who were far from renouncing their own dignity and righteousness.” Rather than denying themselves for Christ, they merely “sold one lust to feed another.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\n\nMoreover, “many that are full of expressions of their own vileness…expect to be looked upon as eminent and bright saints by others.” And woe to anyone who affirms the pretense. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> Indeed, “some who think themselves quite emptied of themselves, and are confident that they are abased in the dust, are full as they can hold with the glory of their own humility, and lifted up to heaven with a high opinion of their own abasement.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a>\n\nPride in Religious Experience\nThe prideful thinks highly of his religious attainments and experiences as compared to others and considers himself a great saint. His unseen attitude says, “God, I thank thee that I am not as other men” (Luke 18:11), and, “I am holier than you” (Isaiah 65:5). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>Of course, every experience of God’s grace is a marvelous thing, “indeed a thing great, yea, infinitely great, for God to bestow the least crumb of children’s bread on such dogs as we are in ourselves.” But, if by “great experience” one means “great compared with others’ experiences, or beyond what is ordinary,” the hidden meaning is, “I am an eminent saint” and have more grace than other saints. And, no less when the credit is given to God, as in Luke 18:11: “God, <em>I thank thee</em> that I am not as other men” [emphasis mine]. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\n\nFor Edwards, truly eminent saints are “more likely to profess themselves to be least of all saints, and to think that every saint’s attainments and experiences are higher than his.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>“Such is the nature of grace and of true spiritual light that they naturally dispose the saints in the present state to look upon their grace and goodness little, and their deformity great.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\n\nSpiritual Knowledge Produces Humility\nWhile knowledge without love makes arrogant, true knowledge and love of the beauty of God’s holy excellence humbles the soul. For instance, the greater our view of God’s grace and glory, the smaller will appear our attainments and experiences. The more we know of “the infinite dignity of the person of Christ, and the boundless length and breadth and depth and height of the love of Christ to sinners,” the more we will see how much we should love Him and how far we fall short. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\n\nGiven what God has displayed to us “of his infinite glory, in His Word, and in His works; and particularly in the gospel of His Son,” then “how small indeed is the love of the most eminent saint on earth, in comparison of what these things jointly considered do require!” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> To those saved by God’s infinite grace, “it appears exceedingly abominable to them that Christ should be loved so little, and thanked so little for His dying love. It is in their eyes hateful ingratitude.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a>\n\nMoreover, the greater our view of God’s holiness, the greater will appear our sinfulness compared to our goodness, and the more ugly will appear our sin. The slightest offense appears “to outweigh all the beauty” of our highest holiness. And as “we are surely under greater obligation to love a more lovely being, than a less lovely,” and as God is infinitely beautiful and excellent, “our obligations to love Him are infinitely great,” so that “whatever is contrary to this love, has in it infinite iniquity, deformity, and unworthiness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a> Spiritual knowledge, then, does not hide personal sinfulness, but exposes and highlights it by “that penetrating, all-searching light of God’s holiness and glory.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a>\n\nAnd true spiritual understanding reveals our ignorance. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> “Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope for a fool than of him” (Proverbs 26:12). “Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!” (Isaiah 5:21).\n\nThe Proud Man Exalts His Humility\nWe judge our humility by how we regard our status relative to others. The higher we view our self and the lower we view those we serve, the higher we view the humility of our service. For example, a slave thinks nothing of untying the shoe of a prince, but untying the shoe of a friend we consider a humble act. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a> When we think we have performed a great act of humility, we claim, in effect, “This is great humility for me, for such an one as I that am so considerable and worthy.” Anything we do below our presumed status we call humility. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup></a>\n\nIn contrast, “He that is truly and eminently humble never thinks his humility great. The cause why he should be abased appears so great, and the abasement of the frame of his heart so greatly short of it, that he takes much more notice of his pride than his humility.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote22\\&quot;\"><sup>[22]</sup></a>Moreover, false humility is showy and draws attention to itself, while true humility avoids the spotlight. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote23\\&quot;\"><sup>[23]</sup></a>\n\nGod Hates Pride\nIn the end, God hates pride. “Him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer [tolerate]” (Psalm 101:5 KJV). “Six <em>things</em> doth the LORD hate: yea, seven <em>are</em> an abomination unto him: A proud look…” (Proverbs 6:16-17). God sees those who view themselves as holier than others as “a smoke in [His] nose, a fire that burneth all the day” (Isaiah 65:5). But, “To this <em>man</em> will I look, <em>even to him that is poor</em> and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word” (Isaiah 66:2). Such is the heart that accompanies truly gracious religious affections.\n\nUp next: True religious affections accompany a “change of nature.”\n\n&nbsp;\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 237-9; Yale, 311-312.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 237; Yale, 311.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 238; Yale, 312.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 239; Yale, 312.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> See also Isaiah 66:1-2, Ezekiel 36: 26, 27, 31; Habakkuk 2:4, Micah 6:8, Matthew 18:3-4, Mark 10:15, Luke 7:37ff., Luke 18:9-14, Colossians 3:12.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 241; Yale, 315.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 241; Yale, 315.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 243; Yale, 317.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 245; Yale, 319.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 246; Yale, 320.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 247; Yale, 321.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 248; Yale, 322.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 249; Yale, 323.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 249-50; Yale, 324.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 251; Yale, 325.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 251-2; Yale, 325-6.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 252; Yale, 326.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 253; Yale, 327.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 256; Yale, 330.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 258; Yale, 332.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup> BT, 259; Yale, 332-3.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote22\\&quot;\"><sup>[22]</sup> BT, 260; Yale, 333.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote23\\&quot;\"><sup>[23]</sup> BT, 261-2; Yale, 335.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 21): Distinguishing Sign Six: True Humility Accompanies Gracious Affections','','inherit','closed','closed','','12759-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:14','2023-03-21 09:51:14','',12759,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14697',0,'revision','',0),(14698,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:16','2023-03-21 09:51:16','Thus far we have seen that gracious affections stand on the excellence of God, apart from self-interest, that holiness comprises the beauty of the excellence of God and divine things, and that gracious affections arise from the spiritual sense to see, comprehend, and love the beauty of God’s holiness. In sign five, Edwards asserts that “gracious affections are attended with a reasonable and spiritual conviction of the reality and certainty of divine things,” a conviction that flows from spiritual “sight” of the “evidence and reality” of the holy excellence of God and the Gospel.\n\nTrue Faith Knows That Scripture Is True\n“Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68-9).\n<blockquote>Truly gracious persons have a solid, full, thorough and effectual conviction of the truth of the great things of the gospel…. The great doctrines of the gospel cease to be any longer doubtful things or matters of opinion, which, though probable, are yet disputable; but with them, they are points settled and determined, as undoubted and indisputable; so that they are not afraid to venture their all upon their truth. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a></blockquote>\nIndeed, “the great, spiritual, mysterious, and invisible things of the gospel…have the weight and power of real things in their hearts; and accordingly rule in their affections, and govern them through the course of their lives.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> “We look not at the things which <em>are</em> seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen <em>are</em> eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).\n\nIllumination Gives Certainty\nTrue religious affections flow from an enduring conviction of the truth of Scripture. Natural affections may arise for reasons other than true faith, such as by Scripture promises coming to mind in a “sudden and extraordinary manner, immediately declaring the recipients that their sins are forgiven, or that God loves them and will save them.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> People may believe Christian doctrine because they learned it as children, or by understanding arguments from history or reason. Yet, true and gracious affections will not flow from such knowledge without the spiritual understanding produced by illumination.\n\nLike the sprout in shallow soil, “faith” may rejoice in the blessings of the Gospel for a time, but will wither and die without the spiritual sense of God’s holy beauty produced by the Holy Spirit’s work of illumination. Temporary faith falls short of the enduring faith of born-again believers, in whom the Holy Spirit dwells to actively communicate His Holy character, will, and understanding. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Believers embrace the truth of Scripture and the Gospel by sight of the beauty of God’s holy excellence. “True faith arises from a spiritual sight of Christ.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to <em>give</em> the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).\n\nHow Spiritual Sight Gives Certainty\nThe glory of God and the Gospel are their own clear, direct, and best evidence.\n<blockquote>We cannot rationally doubt but that things that are divine, and that appertain to the Supreme Being, are vastly different from things that are human: that there is a God-like, high, and glorious excellency in them, that does so distinguish them from the things which are of men that the difference is ineffable; and therefore such as, if seen, will have a most convincing, satisfying influence upon any one that they are what they are, viz., divine. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></blockquote>\nAs we can easily distinguish the speech of great orators from that of children, so “God’s natural perfections” can be distinguished from the “excellencies of worms of the dust.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> As a view of the sun assures us “it is no human work,” so a view of God’s holy excellence assures us of its divine reality. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> And, in the Gospel of Christ, “these things have the clearest, most admirable, and distinguishing representations and exhibitions of the glory of God’s moral perfections, that ever were made to the world.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a>\n\nImmediate and Intuitive Knowledge\nThe beauty of the moral excellence of God and His works are “the most direct and strong evidence” of their true and divine nature. “He that truly sees the divine, transcendent, supreme glory of those things which are divine, does, as it were, know their divinity intuitively.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Seeing is believing. And just as great insight is required to appreciate brilliant literature, so a new spiritual sense is necessary to see the divine and moral beauty of Scripture and what it reveals of God and His works.\n<blockquote>It is no argument that it cannot be seen, that some do not see it, though they may be discerning men in temporal matters. If there be such ineffable, distinguishing, evidential excellencies in the gospel, it is reasonable to suppose that they are such as are not to be discerned but by the special influence and enlightenings of the Spirit of God. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a></blockquote>\nThe beauty and truth of what Scripture reveals about God and His works cannot be seen by those who are hostile toward God and thus spiritually blind to His moral beauty and excellence, regardless of their brilliance concerning earthly matters.\n\nGod Provides Sufficient and Comprehensive Evidence\n“The gospel of the blessed God does not go abroad a-begging for its evidence, so much as some think; it has its highest and most proper evidence in itself.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> Though clear, comprehensive, and utterly convincing, the evidence remains unseen through willful blindness, the suppression of truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). Yet, “as soon as ever the eyes are opened to behold the holy beauty and amiableness that is in divine things, a multitude of most important doctrines of the gospel that depend upon it (which all appear strange and dark to natural men) are at once seen to be true.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\n\nBy spiritual sight of the beauty of God’s holiness we see the evil and bitterness of sin, our own sinfulness, and the sinfulness of mankind. We see Scripture as true concerning original sin and depravity of the heart, our desperate need of a Savior, and the need of God’s infinite power to change our nature. Sight of the beauty of God’s holiness confirms the excellence of His every attribute, His infinite goodness, the infinite evil of sinning against such a great God, the need of Christ to pay the infinite price for our sin, the infinite excellence and beauty of Christ’s person and work, and the infinite value and sufficiency of His death and righteousness to reconcile us to God. Thus, we see the infinite beauty, truth, wisdom, and suitableness of the Gospel as the only solution to our sinful and lost state. By sight of the beauty of God’s holiness we see holiness as the ground of our happiness and duty, and the truth of the immeasurable excellence of heaven. And as we know and experience the truth of Scripture’s explanation of reality, our soul thus knows that the God who knows all such things authored Scripture, and that Scripture is true. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\n\nAnd while Scripture is historically accurate and true, saving faith rests on more than the truth of historical arguments. Many with little knowledge of history have endured imprisonment, torture, and even death for Christ. Indeed, according to Edwards, “Infidelity never prevailed so much in any age as in this, wherein these arguments are handled to the greatest advantage.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> Saving and enduring faith requires spiritual understanding.\n\nAdditional Certainty Gained Indirectly\nWhen the Holy Spirit enlightens the believer to see the beauty of God’s holy excellence, “prejudices of the heart against the truth of divine things are hereby removed, so that the mind thereby lies open to the force of the reasons which are offered.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> For example, the miracles of Christ had a different effect upon Christ’s disciples than the Pharisees. Moreover, spiritual sight of God’s glory enlightens reason to better see, understand, and judge arguments and ideas, including historical evidence, which were once “dim and obscure.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\n\n“Belief” That Falls Short of Saving Belief\nMuch that passes as true faith falls short of true belief. The common convicting work of the Holy Spirit may give a greater perception of the natural perfections of God’s power and greatness, and a greater sense of one’s sin and guilt before God. But, without the sense of the beauty and excellence of holiness, “no spiritual conviction of their truth” exists, <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a> for sin’s hideous character can only be seen in contrast to the beauty of God’s perfect holiness.\n\nAlso, impressions or imaginations “may and often do beget a strong persuasion of the truth of invisible things. Though the general tendency of such things in their final issue is to draw men off from the Word of God, and to cause them to reject the gospel, and to establish unbelief and atheism.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> The object of what Edwards calls “counterfeit faith” is ultimately experience, not Christ.\n\nMoreover, unbelievers more easily accept as true those things that serve their interest. For instance, they will more readily admit to the existence of heaven and hell when convinced that the former applies to them and the latter does not. The “interest and inclinations” of people strongly influence their judgment. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a>\n\nSummary\nTrue religious affections flow from a view of the infinite excellence and beauty of God’s moral perfection, and include “a reasonable and spiritual conviction of the reality and certainty of divine things.” This justified confidence stands on the clear and convincing evidence of the infinite excellence of God, the glory most clearly and definitively seen in the person and work of Jesus Christ. To Him be all love and honor, forever.\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 217; Yale, 291.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 217; Yale, 292.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 220; Yale, 294.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 222; Yale, 296.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 223; Yale, 297.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 225; Yale, 299.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 225; Yale, 299.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 225-6; Yale, 299-300.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 226; Yale, 300.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 224; Yale, 298.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 226-7; Yale, 300.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 233; Yale, 307.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 227; Yale, 301.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 227-9; Yale, 301-3.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 231-2; Yale, 305.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 233; Yale, 307.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 234; Yale, 307-8.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT 234-5; Yale, 308-9.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 235; Yale, 309.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 237; Yale, 310.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 20): Distinguishing Sign Five: Gracious Affections Accompany Certainty About Divine Things','','inherit','closed','closed','','12743-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:16','2023-03-21 09:51:16','',12743,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14698',0,'revision','',0),(14699,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:16','2023-03-21 09:51:16','In sign two Edwards argued that gracious affections stand on the excellence of God, apart from self-interest. Sign three goes further to show that holiness comprises the beauty of the excellence of God and divine things. “A love to divine things for the beauty and sweetness of their moral excellency, is the first beginning and spring of all holy affections.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> In sign four, Edwards explains that gracious affections arise from the Holy Spirit giving the believer a spiritual sense to see, comprehend, and love the beauty of God’s holiness.\n\nLight in the Understanding\nDivine illumination involves new light and knowledge in the understanding, but no new revelation. The believer’s affections move by understanding more about God, Christ, the Gospel, and divine things. “Holy affections are not heat without light.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Indeed, zeal without knowledge can lead to eternal destruction, as with Israel stumbling over Christ, “for I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge” (Romans 10:2). Holy affections flow from knowing God’s holy excellence.\n\nNot a Vision or Imagination\nSpiritual illumination does not consist of a mental picture or vision of Christ hanging on the cross with blood flowing from His hands, a body of great light, sounds and voices, or anything that can be imagined by the mind. People are “never the wiser by such things” without truth and instruction about God, Christ, and the Gospel. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nNot Further Knowledge of What Can Be Known by Unbelievers\nBy God’s common grace, both believers and unbelievers can know truth about God’s power, greatness, and sin. For instance, the Holy Spirit often excites the unbeliever’s conscience and “assists the mind to a clearer idea of the guilt of sin, or its relation to punishment, and its connection with the evil of suffering,” including greater sight of God’s “natural perfections” and “terrible greatness,” without opening spiritual eyes to the ugliness of sin in the light of God’s holiness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Unbelievers can see, understand, and fear God’s power and condemnation, but cannot see and love the beauty of God’s holiness and justice.\n\nMoreover, “A man might know how to interpret all the types, parables, enigmas, and allegories in the Bible,” and even write accurate Bible commentaries, yet “not have one beam of spiritual light in his mind.” Without the “spiritual sense of the holy beauty of divine things,” he remains spiritually blind. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nNot the Manner Which Scripture Comes to Mind\nDuring the Awakening, many were greatly moved in their affections by the immediate, unexpected, coincidental, or seemingly supernatural way Scripture came to mind. But, “Affections arising from texts of Scripture coming to the mind are vain, when no instruction received in the understanding from those texts, or anything taught in those texts, is the ground of the affection, but the manner of their coming to the mind.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\n\nNot a New Interpretation of Scripture\nBelievers see what has always been true and visible, but formerly unseen because of blindness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> The work of the Holy Spirit in illumination “is not to make new and unheard-of revelations, or to coin some new kind of doctrine, by which we may be led away from the received doctrine of the gospel; but to seal and confirm to us that very doctrine which is by the gospel.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law” (Psalm 119:18), namely, things already there.\n\nNot Scripture Used Out of Context\nImagine someone going to Egypt because the following verse came to mind: “Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt” (Matthew 2:13). Yet, the text tells no one alive today to flee to Egypt. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Hopefully, people using the mistaken principle of interpretation will not read of Judas hanging himself and then come across the text, “go ye and do likewise.” Context determines the meaning of a text.\n\nMoreover, Scripture verses about God’s love and salvation popping into a mind makes no one a Christian. Saving faith in Christ, alone, makes one a Christian. And, nowhere does Scripture say that John Doe, in particular, is saved, or that salvation is by Bible verses coming to mind apart from saving faith. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Assurance of salvation lies elsewhere.\n\nDivine Illumination Is Spiritual Love and Understanding of the Beauty of Holiness\nTrue and gracious affections arise from “a new understanding of the excellent nature of God and His wonderful perfections, some new view of Christ in His spiritual excellencies and fullness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> It “consists in ‘a cordial sense of the supreme beauty and sweetness of the holiness or moral perfection of divine things, together with all that discerning and knowledge of things of religion, that depends upon and flows from such a sense.’” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to <em>give</em> the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).\n<blockquote>Spiritually to understand the Scripture is to have the eyes of the mind opened, to behold the wonderful spiritual excellency of the glorious things contained in the true meaning of it and that always were contained in it, ever since it was written; to behold the amiable and bright manifestations of the divine perfections, and of the excellency and sufficiency of Christ, and the excellency and suitableness of the way of salvation by Christ, and the spiritual glory of the precepts and promises of the Scripture, etc., which things are, and always were, in the Bible, and would have been seen before if it had not been for blindness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a></blockquote>\nBy illumination we see in Scripture the beauty of the holiness of God and His works.\n\nKnown by Saints Only\n“The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know <em>them</em>, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). He can read them, explain them, and write books about them, but cannot see the beauty of holiness contained in them.\n\nNonetheless, the unbeliever’s affections can awaken by learning new and marvelous truths about God and divine things, or by the Holy Spirit’s common work of giving more natural understanding of biblical truth, such as those who “were once enlightened,” but fell away (Hebrews 6:4). “But these affections are not spiritual.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a> The Holy Spirit works in all people in a common way, but gracious affections only flow from the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s heart.\n\nThe Leading of the Spirit\nTo be led by the Spirit involves choosing and acting according to the sense and love of holiness as beautiful. Someone with a good ear for music can tell harmony from noise by hearing it, without analyzing the sound waves. Lovers of beauty recognize it by a glance without computations and analysis. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> And, the good nature of a man will produce better behavior “than the strongest reason” of an ill-natured individual. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> Similarly,\n<blockquote>A holy person is led by the Spirit, as he is instructed and led by his holy taste and disposition of heart; whereby, in the lively exercise of grace, he easily distinguishes good and evil, and knows at once what is a suitable amiable behavior towards God and towards man...and judges what is right, as it were spontaneously and of himself, without a particular deduction, by any other arguments than the beauty that is seen, and goodness that is tasted. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a></blockquote>\nAnd Scripture remains central and foundational. “The children of God are led by the Spirit of God, in judging of actions themselves, and in their meditations upon, and judging of, and applying the rules of God’s holy Word: and so God ‘teaches them his statutes, and causes them to understand the way of His precepts.’” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a>\n\nThe leading of the Spirit, then, consists of choosing and delighting in holiness and the commands of God rather than the evil desires of the sinful flesh, from a view and love of the beauty of God’s moral excellence, by a heart enlightened and trained by the Word of God and transformed by the indwelling Holy Spirit.\n\nThus, the leading of the Spirit is not visions, imaginations, Scripture or other words coming to mind in an extraordinary way and accepted as God’s commands. “A very great part of false religion that has been in the world, from one age to another, consists in such discoveries as these, and in the affections that flow from them.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> “It is chiefly by such sort of religion as this that Satan transforms himself into an angel of light: and it is that which he has ever most successfully made use of to confound hopeful and happy revivals of religion, from the beginning of the Christian church to this day,” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a> including the Great Awakening.\n\nUp next: True religious affections accompany a “conviction of certainty.”\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 179; Yale, 253-4.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 192; Yale, 266.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 193; Yale, 267. See BT, 136 or Yale, 208-9 for a description of some of the visions people had during the Great Awakening that were improperly called divine illumination.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 202; Yale, 276.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 204; Yale, 278.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 193-4; Yale, 268.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 206; Yale, 280.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> Calvin, <em>Institutes</em>, 1:9:1; quoted in BT, 203, footnote; Yale, 278, footnote 2.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 205-6; Yale, 280.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 194, emphasis mine; Yale, 268.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 193; Yale, 267-8.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 197-8; Yale, 272.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 206; Yale, 280-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 195; Yale, 269-70.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 207; Yale, 281.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 209; Yale, 283.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 207; Yale, 282.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 211; Yale, 285.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 212; Yale, 286.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 213; Yale, 287.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 19): Distinguishing Sign Four: Gracious Affections Arise from Divine Illumination','','inherit','closed','closed','','12723-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:16','2023-03-21 09:51:16','',12723,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14699',0,'revision','',0),(14700,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:17','2023-03-21 09:51:17','','divine_illuminations_lightbulbs-300w-150x150','','inherit','open','closed','','divine_illuminations_lightbulbs-300w-150x150','','','2023-03-21 09:51:17','2023-03-21 09:51:17','',12723,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/divine_illuminations_lightbulbs-300w-150x150-1.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(14701,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:20','2023-03-21 09:51:20','In addition to giving a sense of the beauty of God’s holiness and all that flows from it, the indwelling Holy Spirit conforms us to the character of our Savior. True religious affections “naturally beget and promote such a spirit of love, meekness, quietness, forgiveness and mercy, as appeared in Christ.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nThe Christian Demeanor\r\nScripture says a great deal about the manner of a true believer. “Blessed <em>are</em> the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5-9). “Love is patient, love is kind, <em>and</em> is not jealous; love does not brag <em>and</em> is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong <em>suffered</em>” (1 Corinthians 13:4-5 NAS). “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Gal 5:22-23). “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also <em>do</em> ye” (Colossians 3:12-13). “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, <em>and</em> easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nLove, Meekness, Quietness, Forgiveness, and Mercy Characterized Christ\r\n“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (Matthew 11:29). \\\"Say to the daughter of Zion, \\\'Behold your King is coming to you, gentle, and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.\\\'\\\" (Matthew 21:5 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> And nowhere did Christ display His demeanor more clearly than in His willing and quiet submission to the cross.\r\n\r\nGod Seeks to Make Us Like Christ\r\n“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate <em>to be</em> conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren” (Romans 8:29). “And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly” (1 Corinthians 15:49). “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, <em>even</em> as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18). In Christ, we “have put on the new <em>man</em>, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:10).\r\n\r\nChristians Reflect the Character of Christ\r\nWhile we remain imperfect this side of glory, “Christians who shine by reflecting the light of the Sun of Righteousness shine with the same sort of brightness, the same mild, sweet, and pleasant beams.” “A Christian spirit is Christ’s mark that he sets upon the souls of his people; His seal in their foreheads, bearing his image and superscription.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> “And in this respect the church is clothed with the sun, not only by being clothed with His imputed righteousness, but also by being adorned with his graces.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> United to Christ by faith, we possess the two-fold righteousness of Christ—His imputed righteousness by which we are justified, and His imparted righteousness by which the Holy Spirit produces Christ’s character within us.\r\n\r\n“The Spirit that descended on Christ when he was anointed of the Father, descended on him like a dove. The dove is a noted emblem of meekness, harmlessness, peace and love. But the same Spirit that descended on the Head of the church descends to the members.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” (Galatians 4:6). But, “if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9). In fact, the terms <em>meek</em> and <em>godly</em> are used as synonyms in contrast to the wicked. “The LORD lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground” (Psalm 147:6; see also 37:10-1). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGod honors the childlike humility of saving faith. “Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3-4). Christ so identifies humility with the manner of His saints that He calls us His “little children” (John 13:33).\r\n\r\nObjection: Spiritual Warfare Requires Strength and Boldness for Christ\r\nTrue, but what constitutes Christian strength and boldness?\r\n<blockquote>It is an exceeding diverse thing from a brutal fierceness, or the boldness of beasts of prey. True Christian fortitude consists in strength of mind, through grace, exerted in two things; in ruling and suppressing the evil and unruly passions and affections of the mind; and in steadfastly and freely exerting and following good affections and dispositions, without being hindered by sinful fear or the opposition of enemies. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nEdwards observed in a number of vigorous supporters of the Awakening that “the passions that are restrained and kept under, in the exercise of this Christian strength and fortitude, are those very passions that are vigorously and violently exerted in a false boldness for Christ.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> “The strength of the good soldier of Jesus Christ appears in nothing more than in steadfastly maintaining the holy calm, meekness, sweetness, and benevolence of his mind, amidst all the storms, injuries, strange behaviour, and surprising acts and events of this evil and unreasonable world.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nChrist provides the supreme example of strength and boldness in His suffering at the hands of wicked and vicious enemies.\r\n<blockquote>How did He show His holy boldness and valour at that time? Not in the exercise of any fiery passions; not in fierce and violent speeches, vehemently declaiming against the intolerable wickedness of opposers, giving them their own in plain terms: but in not opening His mouth when afflicted and oppressed, in going as a lamb to the slaughter, and, as a sheep before his shearers is dumb, not opening his mouth; praying that the Father would forgive His cruel enemies because they knew not what they did; not shedding others’ blood, but with all-conquering patience and love shedding His own. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nIn contrast, much of what passes for Christian “boldness” may be nothing more than pride. Some may oppose and willingly bear the scorn of a wicked culture because their peers admire them for it. The spiritually prideful seek “distinction and singularity; and so oftentimes to set themselves at war with those that they call carnal, that they may be more highly exalted among their party.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> Thus, “to maintain their interest in the love of godly men, they will suffer much.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nMoreover, true Christian boldness has the courage and humility to admit failure before enemies, showing “vastly greater evidence of holy boldness than resolutely and fiercely confronting opposers.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nObjection: Christians Should Have Zeal for Christ\r\nTrue, but Christian zeal is a “sweet” flame of “divine love or Christian charity, which is the sweetest and most benevolent thing that is, or can be, in the heart of man or angel.” Further, “nothing in a true Christian zeal…is contrary to that spirit of meekness, gentleness, and love, that spirit of a little child, a lamb and dove, that has been spoken of; but is entirely agreeable to it, and tends to promote it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> The same Holy Spirit that produces the amiable “fruits of the Spirit” produces godly zeal.\r\n\r\nForgiveness, Love, and Mercy Belong to the Character of Every Christian\r\nGod commands us to forgive our debtors (Matthew 6:12), even “seventy times seven” times (Matthew 18:21-22). “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15).\r\n\r\nTrue believers love God and others. “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me” (John 14:21). By this we not only follow Christ’s example, but give assurance to our heart and to others that we are indeed Christians. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1 John 4:7-8). “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him” (1 John 3:18-19). “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar” (1 John 4:20). “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit” (1 John 4:12-13). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nAnd, saints are merciful and generous (Psalm 37:21). “Blessed <em>are</em> the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, <em>and</em> to keep himself unspotted from the world” (James 1:27). “But whoever has the world\\\'s goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:17 NAS). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nProper Evidence\r\nTo conclude, a tree is known by its fruit, and not by uncertain signs of an uncertain origin, such as testimonies of visions and extraordinary experiences.\r\n<blockquote>Ministers, and others, have no warrant from Christ to encourage persons that are of a contrary character and behaviour to think they are converted, because they tell a fair story of illuminations and discoveries. In so doing, they would set up their own wisdom against Christ’s, and judge against that rule by which Christ has declared all men should know his disciples. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nThe character of Christ displayed in us provides a more reliable evidence of true faith in Christ.\r\n\r\nNext up: Gracious affections “soften the heart.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nScriptures marked NAS are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, copyright© 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 272; Yale, 344-5.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 272-3; Yale, 345-6.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 273-4; Yale, 346-7.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 274; Yale, 347.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 275; Yale, 347.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 275; Yale, 348.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 276; Yale, 349.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 277; Yale, 350.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 277-8; Yale, 350.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 278; Yale, 350.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 278-9; Yale, 351.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 279; Yale, 352.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> Shepard, <em>Parable of the Ten Virgins</em>, 285; quoted in BT, 280, footnote; Yale, 352, footnote 7.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 280; Yale, 352.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 280; Yale, 352-3.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> See also John 13:34-5, 15:17; 1 John 1:2:9-10, 3:14, 23; 4:12-13.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> See also Psalm 37:26, 112:9; Proverbs 14:31, Jeremiah 22:16, Hosea 6:6.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 284; Yale, 356.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 23): Distinguishing Sign Eight: Gracious Affections Produce a Christ-Like Demeanor','','inherit','closed','closed','','12781-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:20','2023-03-21 09:51:20','',12781,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14701',0,'revision','',0),(14702,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:26','2023-03-21 09:51:26','As with all of the previous distinguishing signs of a true work of God, sign seven consists of another effect of the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer, imparting His character to the soul, and giving true spiritual understanding—He transforms our nature. Moreover, the sense that views, comprehends, and loves the beauty of God’s holiness remains forever, as do all of the effects that flow from this sense. Thus, by this divine work in salvation, the nature of the soul is changed forever.\r\n\r\nOnly God Can Change Our Nature\r\nAs we have seen, religious affections have many natural causes. Yet, natural things cannot alter the nature of soul and produce the gracious affections that accompany salvation. Affections may be elevated for a good many reasons, but only God can change our nature. God, alone, can give us a new heart. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Therefore, the religious affections generated by natural and temporary things, apart from saving faith in Christ, give no sure evidence of God’s saving work.\r\n\r\nMoreover, the non-saving acts of the Holy Spirit to convict the conscience or give unbelievers a greater view of God’s perfections, including His judgment against sin, do not change the soul. Unbelievers subject to these common works of the Spirit remain spiritually dead and blind to the beauty of the holiness God and divine things until the Spirit takes up residence in the heart. And when He does, He transforms us.\r\n\r\nGod Changes Our Nature in Salvation\r\nThe Holy Spirit indwells and changes our nature at the point of saving faith in Christ.\r\n<blockquote>Scripture representations of conversion do strongly imply and signify a change of nature: such as ‘being born again; becoming new creatures; rising from the dead; being renewed in the spirit of the mind, dying to sin, and living to righteousness; putting off the old man, and putting on the new man; a being ingrafted into a new stock; a having a divine seed implanted in the heart; a being made partakers of the divine nature,’ etc. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nGod Permanently Changes the Inclination of The Heart from Sin to Himself\r\nSalvation includes the new sense that sees and loves the beauty of God’s holiness and hates the ugliness of sin. The believer turns from a love of darkness to a heart of love that seeks the honor of God in thought, word, and deed.\r\n<blockquote>Conversion is a great and universal change of the man, turning him from sin to God. A man may be restrained from sin, before he is converted; but when he is converted, he is not only restrained from sin, his very heart and nature is turned from it unto holiness: so that thenceforward he becomes a holy person, and an enemy to sin. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nAnd the change is permanent. During the Awakening, some viewed the temporary nature of their experience as evidence of its divine origin. When the affections departed and they were “left wholly without any life or sense, or anything beyond what they had before,” they concluded the episode must have been from God.\r\n\r\nBut, regardless of the visions, imaginations, and Scripture texts that may have come to mind, or the extraordinary nature of one’s experience, testimony, and seemingly supernatural origin and intensity of religious affections, if the heart eventually returns to its previous love and pursuit of moral darkness, all are vain if the nature has not been permanently changed.\r\n<blockquote>If there be a very great alteration visible in a person for a while, if it be not abiding, but he afterwards returns…to be much as he used to be; it appears to be no change of nature, for nature is an abiding thing. A swine that is of a filthy nature may be washed, but the swinish nature remains; and a dove that is of a cleanly nature may be defiled, but its cleanly nature remains.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nAgain, at the moment of saving faith in Christ, the moment we are completely justified by the imputed righteousness of Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us forever, giving a new nature, and producing in and though us His holy character.\r\n\r\nPerfection in Glory\r\nIn giving us the Holy Spirit, God gives us new life in Christ. But while the change in us is profound and lasting, sinless purity awaits in the life to come. “Conversion does not entirely root out the natural temper; those sins which a man by his natural constitution was most inclined to before his conversion, he may be most apt to fall into still.” Nonetheless, “conversion will make a great alteration even with respect to these sins. Though grace, while imperfect, does not root out an evil natural temper, yet it is of great power…to correct it.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGrowth in godliness continues until perfection in heaven. As we increase in the knowledge and love of God’s infinite excellence, we are transformed into Christ’s spiritual image as we diligently pursue Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2). Indeed, as Christ tells us: “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).\r\n\r\nUp next: True religious affections produce the demeanor of Christ.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 267; Yale, 340.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 267; Yale, 340-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 268; Yale, 341.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> Ibid.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 22): Distinguishing Sign Seven: Gracious Affections Accompany a Change of Nature','','inherit','closed','closed','','12768-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:26','2023-03-21 09:51:26','',12768,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14702',0,'revision','',0),(14703,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:34','2023-03-21 09:51:34','We have seen that gracious affections stand on the excellence of God, that holiness comprises the beauty of the excellence of God and divine things, and that gracious affections arise from the spiritual sense to see, comprehend, and love the beauty of God’s holiness. Moreover, as spiritual sight and understanding of the holy beauty of God and divine things produces “a reasonable and spiritual conviction of the reality and certainty of divine things,” it also produces humility.\r\n\r\n“Evangelical” versus “Natural” Humility\r\nEdwards distinguishes between “evangelical” and “legal” humiliation. Legal humiliation is natural to all people and often comes by the Holy Spirit assisting the conscience, and may include a sense of God’s natural attributes and judgment against sin. Evangelical humiliation is peculiar to believers and comes from the Holy Spirit dwelling and exerting Himself within the saint, giving a sense of the moral beauty of God and His works and the vile and hateful nature of sin. In legal humiliation, unbelievers may have an active conscience and sense their smallness before God, but lack the new heart and spiritual understanding that seeks to glorify God and obey His will from love for Him. Legally humbled unbelievers may be brought to see their helplessness and forced into humility, while the believer willingly denies self and yields to God from a humble delight in Him. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> “Evangelical humiliation is a sense that a Christian has of his own utter insufficiency, despicableness, and odiousness, with an answerable frame of heart.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nAnd, as “common knowledge” of biblical truth precedes spiritual understanding of the beauty of God’s holiness, God may use legal humiliation to produce and nurture true humility. Nonetheless, legal humiliation has no “true virtue” before God. People can be humbled without being truly humble. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nHumility Is an Essential Part of True Belief\r\nGod designed redemption to make us humble. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit” Psalm 34:18. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise” Psalm 51:17. “Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly” Psalm 138:6. “Blessed <em>are</em> the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nHumility Is an Essential Part of Self-Denial\r\nEdwards identifies two elements of true self-denial: 1) the denial of worldly desires, things, and pleasures; and, 2) the denial of self-exaltation and our “dignity and glory.” Unbelievers more easily imitate the former, while the latter and more difficult of the two, the believer does in evangelical humiliation. “It is inexpressible…how strong a self-righteous, self-exalting disposition is naturally in man; and what he will not do and suffer to feed and gratify it: and what lengths have been gone in a seeming self-denial in other respects.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> History abounds with people abandoning worldly pleasures and riches, yet, “who were far from renouncing their own dignity and righteousness.” Rather than denying themselves for Christ, they merely “sold one lust to feed another.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nMoreover, “many that are full of expressions of their own vileness…expect to be looked upon as eminent and bright saints by others.” And woe to anyone who affirms the pretense. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> Indeed, “some who think themselves quite emptied of themselves, and are confident that they are abased in the dust, are full as they can hold with the glory of their own humility, and lifted up to heaven with a high opinion of their own abasement.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nPride in Religious Experience\r\nThe prideful thinks highly of his religious attainments and experiences as compared to others and considers himself a great saint. His unseen attitude says, “God, I thank thee that I am not as other men” (Luke 18:11), and, “I am holier than you” (Isaiah 65:5). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>Of course, every experience of God’s grace is a marvelous thing, “indeed a thing great, yea, infinitely great, for God to bestow the least crumb of children’s bread on such dogs as we are in ourselves.” But, if by “great experience” one means “great compared with others’ experiences, or beyond what is ordinary,” the hidden meaning is, “I am an eminent saint” and have more grace than other saints. And, no less when the credit is given to God, as in Luke 18:11: “God, <em>I thank thee</em> that I am not as other men” [emphasis mine]. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nFor Edwards, truly eminent saints are “more likely to profess themselves to be least of all saints, and to think that every saint’s attainments and experiences are higher than his.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a>“Such is the nature of grace and of true spiritual light that they naturally dispose the saints in the present state to look upon their grace and goodness little, and their deformity great.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nSpiritual Knowledge Produces Humility\r\nWhile knowledge without love makes arrogant, true knowledge and love of the beauty of God’s holy excellence humbles the soul. For instance, the greater our view of God’s grace and glory, the smaller will appear our attainments and experiences. The more we know of “the infinite dignity of the person of Christ, and the boundless length and breadth and depth and height of the love of Christ to sinners,” the more we will see how much we should love Him and how far we fall short. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGiven what God has displayed to us “of his infinite glory, in His Word, and in His works; and particularly in the gospel of His Son,” then “how small indeed is the love of the most eminent saint on earth, in comparison of what these things jointly considered do require!” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> To those saved by God’s infinite grace, “it appears exceedingly abominable to them that Christ should be loved so little, and thanked so little for His dying love. It is in their eyes hateful ingratitude.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nMoreover, the greater our view of God’s holiness, the greater will appear our sinfulness compared to our goodness, and the more ugly will appear our sin. The slightest offense appears “to outweigh all the beauty” of our highest holiness. And as “we are surely under greater obligation to love a more lovely being, than a less lovely,” and as God is infinitely beautiful and excellent, “our obligations to love Him are infinitely great,” so that “whatever is contrary to this love, has in it infinite iniquity, deformity, and unworthiness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a> Spiritual knowledge, then, does not hide personal sinfulness, but exposes and highlights it by “that penetrating, all-searching light of God’s holiness and glory.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nAnd true spiritual understanding reveals our ignorance. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> “Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope for a fool than of him” (Proverbs 26:12). “Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!” (Isaiah 5:21).\r\n\r\nThe Proud Man Exalts His Humility\r\nWe judge our humility by how we regard our status relative to others. The higher we view our self and the lower we view those we serve, the higher we view the humility of our service. For example, a slave thinks nothing of untying the shoe of a prince, but untying the shoe of a friend we consider a humble act. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a> When we think we have performed a great act of humility, we claim, in effect, “This is great humility for me, for such an one as I that am so considerable and worthy.” Anything we do below our presumed status we call humility. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nIn contrast, “He that is truly and eminently humble never thinks his humility great. The cause why he should be abased appears so great, and the abasement of the frame of his heart so greatly short of it, that he takes much more notice of his pride than his humility.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote22\\&quot;\"><sup>[22]</sup></a>Moreover, false humility is showy and draws attention to itself, while true humility avoids the spotlight. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote23\\&quot;\"><sup>[23]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nGod Hates Pride\r\nIn the end, God hates pride. “Him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer [tolerate]” (Psalm 101:5 KJV). “Six <em>things</em> doth the LORD hate: yea, seven <em>are</em> an abomination unto him: A proud look…” (Proverbs 6:16-17). God sees those who view themselves as holier than others as “a smoke in [His] nose, a fire that burneth all the day” (Isaiah 65:5). But, “To this <em>man</em> will I look, <em>even to him that is poor</em> and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word” (Isaiah 66:2). Such is the heart that accompanies truly gracious religious affections.\r\n\r\nUp next: True religious affections accompany a “change of nature.”\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 237-9; Yale, 311-312.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 237; Yale, 311.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 238; Yale, 312.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 239; Yale, 312.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> See also Isaiah 66:1-2, Ezekiel 36: 26, 27, 31; Habakkuk 2:4, Micah 6:8, Matthew 18:3-4, Mark 10:15, Luke 7:37ff., Luke 18:9-14, Colossians 3:12.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 241; Yale, 315.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 241; Yale, 315.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 243; Yale, 317.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 245; Yale, 319.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 246; Yale, 320.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 247; Yale, 321.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 248; Yale, 322.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 249; Yale, 323.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 249-50; Yale, 324.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 251; Yale, 325.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 251-2; Yale, 325-6.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 252; Yale, 326.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 253; Yale, 327.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 256; Yale, 330.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 258; Yale, 332.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup> BT, 259; Yale, 332-3.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote22\\&quot;\"><sup>[22]</sup> BT, 260; Yale, 333.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote23\\&quot;\"><sup>[23]</sup> BT, 261-2; Yale, 335.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 21): Distinguishing Sign Six: True Humility Accompanies Gracious Affections','','inherit','closed','closed','','12759-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:34','2023-03-21 09:51:34','',12759,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14703',0,'revision','',0),(14704,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:38','2023-03-21 09:51:38','Thus far we have seen that gracious affections stand on the excellence of God, apart from self-interest, that holiness comprises the beauty of the excellence of God and divine things, and that gracious affections arise from the spiritual sense to see, comprehend, and love the beauty of God’s holiness. In sign five, Edwards asserts that “gracious affections are attended with a reasonable and spiritual conviction of the reality and certainty of divine things,” a conviction that flows from spiritual “sight” of the “evidence and reality” of the holy excellence of God and the Gospel.\r\n\r\nTrue Faith Knows That Scripture Is True\r\n“Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68-9).\r\n<blockquote>Truly gracious persons have a solid, full, thorough and effectual conviction of the truth of the great things of the gospel…. The great doctrines of the gospel cease to be any longer doubtful things or matters of opinion, which, though probable, are yet disputable; but with them, they are points settled and determined, as undoubted and indisputable; so that they are not afraid to venture their all upon their truth. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nIndeed, “the great, spiritual, mysterious, and invisible things of the gospel…have the weight and power of real things in their hearts; and accordingly rule in their affections, and govern them through the course of their lives.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> “We look not at the things which <em>are</em> seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen <em>are</em> eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).\r\n\r\nIllumination Gives Certainty\r\nTrue religious affections flow from an enduring conviction of the truth of Scripture. Natural affections may arise for reasons other than true faith, such as by Scripture promises coming to mind in a “sudden and extraordinary manner, immediately declaring the recipients that their sins are forgiven, or that God loves them and will save them.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> People may believe Christian doctrine because they learned it as children, or by understanding arguments from history or reason. Yet, true and gracious affections will not flow from such knowledge without the spiritual understanding produced by illumination.\r\n\r\nLike the sprout in shallow soil, “faith” may rejoice in the blessings of the Gospel for a time, but will wither and die without the spiritual sense of God’s holy beauty produced by the Holy Spirit’s work of illumination. Temporary faith falls short of the enduring faith of born-again believers, in whom the Holy Spirit dwells to actively communicate His Holy character, will, and understanding. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Believers embrace the truth of Scripture and the Gospel by sight of the beauty of God’s holy excellence. “True faith arises from a spiritual sight of Christ.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to <em>give</em> the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).\r\n\r\nHow Spiritual Sight Gives Certainty\r\nThe glory of God and the Gospel are their own clear, direct, and best evidence.\r\n<blockquote>We cannot rationally doubt but that things that are divine, and that appertain to the Supreme Being, are vastly different from things that are human: that there is a God-like, high, and glorious excellency in them, that does so distinguish them from the things which are of men that the difference is ineffable; and therefore such as, if seen, will have a most convincing, satisfying influence upon any one that they are what they are, viz., divine. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nAs we can easily distinguish the speech of great orators from that of children, so “God’s natural perfections” can be distinguished from the “excellencies of worms of the dust.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> As a view of the sun assures us “it is no human work,” so a view of God’s holy excellence assures us of its divine reality. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> And, in the Gospel of Christ, “these things have the clearest, most admirable, and distinguishing representations and exhibitions of the glory of God’s moral perfections, that ever were made to the world.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nImmediate and Intuitive Knowledge\r\nThe beauty of the moral excellence of God and His works are “the most direct and strong evidence” of their true and divine nature. “He that truly sees the divine, transcendent, supreme glory of those things which are divine, does, as it were, know their divinity intuitively.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Seeing is believing. And just as great insight is required to appreciate brilliant literature, so a new spiritual sense is necessary to see the divine and moral beauty of Scripture and what it reveals of God and His works.\r\n<blockquote>It is no argument that it cannot be seen, that some do not see it, though they may be discerning men in temporal matters. If there be such ineffable, distinguishing, evidential excellencies in the gospel, it is reasonable to suppose that they are such as are not to be discerned but by the special influence and enlightenings of the Spirit of God. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nThe beauty and truth of what Scripture reveals about God and His works cannot be seen by those who are hostile toward God and thus spiritually blind to His moral beauty and excellence, regardless of their brilliance concerning earthly matters.\r\n\r\nGod Provides Sufficient and Comprehensive Evidence\r\n“The gospel of the blessed God does not go abroad a-begging for its evidence, so much as some think; it has its highest and most proper evidence in itself.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> Though clear, comprehensive, and utterly convincing, the evidence remains unseen through willful blindness, the suppression of truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). Yet, “as soon as ever the eyes are opened to behold the holy beauty and amiableness that is in divine things, a multitude of most important doctrines of the gospel that depend upon it (which all appear strange and dark to natural men) are at once seen to be true.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nBy spiritual sight of the beauty of God’s holiness we see the evil and bitterness of sin, our own sinfulness, and the sinfulness of mankind. We see Scripture as true concerning original sin and depravity of the heart, our desperate need of a Savior, and the need of God’s infinite power to change our nature. Sight of the beauty of God’s holiness confirms the excellence of His every attribute, His infinite goodness, the infinite evil of sinning against such a great God, the need of Christ to pay the infinite price for our sin, the infinite excellence and beauty of Christ’s person and work, and the infinite value and sufficiency of His death and righteousness to reconcile us to God. Thus, we see the infinite beauty, truth, wisdom, and suitableness of the Gospel as the only solution to our sinful and lost state. By sight of the beauty of God’s holiness we see holiness as the ground of our happiness and duty, and the truth of the immeasurable excellence of heaven. And as we know and experience the truth of Scripture’s explanation of reality, our soul thus knows that the God who knows all such things authored Scripture, and that Scripture is true. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nAnd while Scripture is historically accurate and true, saving faith rests on more than the truth of historical arguments. Many with little knowledge of history have endured imprisonment, torture, and even death for Christ. Indeed, according to Edwards, “Infidelity never prevailed so much in any age as in this, wherein these arguments are handled to the greatest advantage.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> Saving and enduring faith requires spiritual understanding.\r\n\r\nAdditional Certainty Gained Indirectly\r\nWhen the Holy Spirit enlightens the believer to see the beauty of God’s holy excellence, “prejudices of the heart against the truth of divine things are hereby removed, so that the mind thereby lies open to the force of the reasons which are offered.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> For example, the miracles of Christ had a different effect upon Christ’s disciples than the Pharisees. Moreover, spiritual sight of God’s glory enlightens reason to better see, understand, and judge arguments and ideas, including historical evidence, which were once “dim and obscure.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\r\n\r\n“Belief” That Falls Short of Saving Belief\r\nMuch that passes as true faith falls short of true belief. The common convicting work of the Holy Spirit may give a greater perception of the natural perfections of God’s power and greatness, and a greater sense of one’s sin and guilt before God. But, without the sense of the beauty and excellence of holiness, “no spiritual conviction of their truth” exists, <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a> for sin’s hideous character can only be seen in contrast to the beauty of God’s perfect holiness.\r\n\r\nAlso, impressions or imaginations “may and often do beget a strong persuasion of the truth of invisible things. Though the general tendency of such things in their final issue is to draw men off from the Word of God, and to cause them to reject the gospel, and to establish unbelief and atheism.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> The object of what Edwards calls “counterfeit faith” is ultimately experience, not Christ.\r\n\r\nMoreover, unbelievers more easily accept as true those things that serve their interest. For instance, they will more readily admit to the existence of heaven and hell when convinced that the former applies to them and the latter does not. The “interest and inclinations” of people strongly influence their judgment. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nSummary\r\nTrue religious affections flow from a view of the infinite excellence and beauty of God’s moral perfection, and include “a reasonable and spiritual conviction of the reality and certainty of divine things.” This justified confidence stands on the clear and convincing evidence of the infinite excellence of God, the glory most clearly and definitively seen in the person and work of Jesus Christ. To Him be all love and honor, forever.\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 217; Yale, 291.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 217; Yale, 292.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 220; Yale, 294.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 222; Yale, 296.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 223; Yale, 297.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 225; Yale, 299.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 225; Yale, 299.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 225-6; Yale, 299-300.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 226; Yale, 300.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 224; Yale, 298.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 226-7; Yale, 300.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 233; Yale, 307.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 227; Yale, 301.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 227-9; Yale, 301-3.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 231-2; Yale, 305.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 233; Yale, 307.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 234; Yale, 307-8.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT 234-5; Yale, 308-9.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 235; Yale, 309.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 237; Yale, 310.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 20): Distinguishing Sign Five: Gracious Affections Accompany Certainty About Divine Things','','inherit','closed','closed','','12743-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:38','2023-03-21 09:51:38','',12743,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14704',0,'revision','',0),(14705,1,'2023-03-21 09:51:46','2023-03-21 09:51:46','In sign two Edwards argued that gracious affections stand on the excellence of God, apart from self-interest. Sign three goes further to show that holiness comprises the beauty of the excellence of God and divine things. “A love to divine things for the beauty and sweetness of their moral excellency, is the first beginning and spring of all holy affections.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> In sign four, Edwards explains that gracious affections arise from the Holy Spirit giving the believer a spiritual sense to see, comprehend, and love the beauty of God’s holiness.\r\n\r\nLight in the Understanding\r\nDivine illumination involves new light and knowledge in the understanding, but no new revelation. The believer’s affections move by understanding more about God, Christ, the Gospel, and divine things. “Holy affections are not heat without light.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Indeed, zeal without knowledge can lead to eternal destruction, as with Israel stumbling over Christ, “for I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge” (Romans 10:2). Holy affections flow from knowing God’s holy excellence.\r\n\r\nNot a Vision or Imagination\r\nSpiritual illumination does not consist of a mental picture or vision of Christ hanging on the cross with blood flowing from His hands, a body of great light, sounds and voices, or anything that can be imagined by the mind. People are “never the wiser by such things” without truth and instruction about God, Christ, and the Gospel. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nNot Further Knowledge of What Can Be Known by Unbelievers\r\nBy God’s common grace, both believers and unbelievers can know truth about God’s power, greatness, and sin. For instance, the Holy Spirit often excites the unbeliever’s conscience and “assists the mind to a clearer idea of the guilt of sin, or its relation to punishment, and its connection with the evil of suffering,” including greater sight of God’s “natural perfections” and “terrible greatness,” without opening spiritual eyes to the ugliness of sin in the light of God’s holiness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Unbelievers can see, understand, and fear God’s power and condemnation, but cannot see and love the beauty of God’s holiness and justice.\r\n\r\nMoreover, “A man might know how to interpret all the types, parables, enigmas, and allegories in the Bible,” and even write accurate Bible commentaries, yet “not have one beam of spiritual light in his mind.” Without the “spiritual sense of the holy beauty of divine things,” he remains spiritually blind. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nNot the Manner Which Scripture Comes to Mind\r\nDuring the Awakening, many were greatly moved in their affections by the immediate, unexpected, coincidental, or seemingly supernatural way Scripture came to mind. But, “Affections arising from texts of Scripture coming to the mind are vain, when no instruction received in the understanding from those texts, or anything taught in those texts, is the ground of the affection, but the manner of their coming to the mind.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nNot a New Interpretation of Scripture\r\nBelievers see what has always been true and visible, but formerly unseen because of blindness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> The work of the Holy Spirit in illumination “is not to make new and unheard-of revelations, or to coin some new kind of doctrine, by which we may be led away from the received doctrine of the gospel; but to seal and confirm to us that very doctrine which is by the gospel.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law” (Psalm 119:18), namely, things already there.\r\n\r\nNot Scripture Used Out of Context\r\nImagine someone going to Egypt because the following verse came to mind: “Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt” (Matthew 2:13). Yet, the text tells no one alive today to flee to Egypt. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Hopefully, people using the mistaken principle of interpretation will not read of Judas hanging himself and then come across the text, “go ye and do likewise.” Context determines the meaning of a text.\r\n\r\nMoreover, Scripture verses about God’s love and salvation popping into a mind makes no one a Christian. Saving faith in Christ, alone, makes one a Christian. And, nowhere does Scripture say that John Doe, in particular, is saved, or that salvation is by Bible verses coming to mind apart from saving faith. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> Assurance of salvation lies elsewhere.\r\n\r\nDivine Illumination Is Spiritual Love and Understanding of the Beauty of Holiness\r\nTrue and gracious affections arise from “a new understanding of the excellent nature of God and His wonderful perfections, some new view of Christ in His spiritual excellencies and fullness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> It “consists in ‘a cordial sense of the supreme beauty and sweetness of the holiness or moral perfection of divine things, together with all that discerning and knowledge of things of religion, that depends upon and flows from such a sense.’” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to <em>give</em> the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).\r\n<blockquote>Spiritually to understand the Scripture is to have the eyes of the mind opened, to behold the wonderful spiritual excellency of the glorious things contained in the true meaning of it and that always were contained in it, ever since it was written; to behold the amiable and bright manifestations of the divine perfections, and of the excellency and sufficiency of Christ, and the excellency and suitableness of the way of salvation by Christ, and the spiritual glory of the precepts and promises of the Scripture, etc., which things are, and always were, in the Bible, and would have been seen before if it had not been for blindness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nBy illumination we see in Scripture the beauty of the holiness of God and His works.\r\n\r\nKnown by Saints Only\r\n“The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know <em>them</em>, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). He can read them, explain them, and write books about them, but cannot see the beauty of holiness contained in them.\r\n\r\nNonetheless, the unbeliever’s affections can awaken by learning new and marvelous truths about God and divine things, or by the Holy Spirit’s common work of giving more natural understanding of biblical truth, such as those who “were once enlightened,” but fell away (Hebrews 6:4). “But these affections are not spiritual.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a> The Holy Spirit works in all people in a common way, but gracious affections only flow from the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s heart.\r\n\r\nThe Leading of the Spirit\r\nTo be led by the Spirit involves choosing and acting according to the sense and love of holiness as beautiful. Someone with a good ear for music can tell harmony from noise by hearing it, without analyzing the sound waves. Lovers of beauty recognize it by a glance without computations and analysis. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a> And, the good nature of a man will produce better behavior “than the strongest reason” of an ill-natured individual. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> Similarly,\r\n<blockquote>A holy person is led by the Spirit, as he is instructed and led by his holy taste and disposition of heart; whereby, in the lively exercise of grace, he easily distinguishes good and evil, and knows at once what is a suitable amiable behavior towards God and towards man...and judges what is right, as it were spontaneously and of himself, without a particular deduction, by any other arguments than the beauty that is seen, and goodness that is tasted. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a></blockquote>\r\nAnd Scripture remains central and foundational. “The children of God are led by the Spirit of God, in judging of actions themselves, and in their meditations upon, and judging of, and applying the rules of God’s holy Word: and so God ‘teaches them his statutes, and causes them to understand the way of His precepts.’” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a>\r\n\r\nThe leading of the Spirit, then, consists of choosing and delighting in holiness and the commands of God rather than the evil desires of the sinful flesh, from a view and love of the beauty of God’s moral excellence, by a heart enlightened and trained by the Word of God and transformed by the indwelling Holy Spirit.\r\n\r\nThus, the leading of the Spirit is not visions, imaginations, Scripture or other words coming to mind in an extraordinary way and accepted as God’s commands. “A very great part of false religion that has been in the world, from one age to another, consists in such discoveries as these, and in the affections that flow from them.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> “It is chiefly by such sort of religion as this that Satan transforms himself into an angel of light: and it is that which he has ever most successfully made use of to confound hopeful and happy revivals of religion, from the beginning of the Christian church to this day,” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a> including the Great Awakening.\r\n\r\nUp next: True religious affections accompany a “conviction of certainty.”\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 179; Yale, 253-4.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 192; Yale, 266.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 193; Yale, 267. See BT, 136 or Yale, 208-9 for a description of some of the visions people had during the Great Awakening that were improperly called divine illumination.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 202; Yale, 276.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 204; Yale, 278.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 193-4; Yale, 268.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 206; Yale, 280.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> Calvin, <em>Institutes</em>, 1:9:1; quoted in BT, 203, footnote; Yale, 278, footnote 2.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 205-6; Yale, 280.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 194, emphasis mine; Yale, 268.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 193; Yale, 267-8.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 197-8; Yale, 272.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 206; Yale, 280-1.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 195; Yale, 269-70.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 207; Yale, 281.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 209; Yale, 283.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 207; Yale, 282.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 211; Yale, 285.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 212; Yale, 286.</p>\r\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 213; Yale, 287.</p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end table-text cell-->\r\n\r\n</div>\r\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 19): Distinguishing Sign Four: Gracious Affections Arise from Divine Illumination','','inherit','closed','closed','','12723-revision-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:51:46','2023-03-21 09:51:46','',12723,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14705',0,'revision','',0),(14706,1,'2023-03-21 09:53:01','2023-03-21 09:53:01','Saints love God, Jesus Christ, Scripture, and every work and way of God for their divine excellence. And since “Christian love is the fountain of all gracious affections,” love of God’s infinite greatness constitutes the ultimate foundation and source of true religious affections. Gratitude and a love of present and future benefits of salvation form a “secondary and consequential influence.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a>\n\nIs Love to God Merely Self-love?\nSome claim that since we do what makes us happy, and God’s honor and the sight of His excellence make us happy, our love of God’s glory is merely self-love because we are doing what makes us happy. But, how did God’s perfections become pleasing in the first place? “A man must first love God, or have his heart united to Him, before he will esteem God’s good his own, and before he will desire the glorifying and enjoying God as his happiness.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a>\n\nOur happiness in watching those we love honored does not make our desire for happiness the cause of our love to them, as if the <em>effect</em> must be the <em>cause</em>. “It would be just as true to argue that, because a father begat a son, therefore his son certainly begat him.” We rejoice in the success of our spouse or children because our love to them <em>precedes</em> our delight in their success. A person’s love of God and delight in His attributes follows “a change made in the views of his mind, and relish of his heart, whereby he apprehends a beauty, glory, and supreme good, in God’s nature.” This “first draws his heart to Him, and causes his heart to be united to Him, prior to all consideration of his own interest or happiness.” Seeking happiness in God <em>follows</em> love for God. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nSelf-love Is Natural\nLove of self and love for a benefit received is common to believers and unbelievers, alike, and does not require the indwelling Holy Spirit. “If ye love them that love you, what thank have ye? For sinners also love those that love them” (Luke 6:32). In fact, the devil smeared Job’s love to God as no more than a love of God’s blessings, knowing that such a “mercenary” love “is worthless in the sight of God” (Job 1:9-10). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a>\n\nGratitude and a False Love of God\nWe can be grateful to people we do not love, and angry toward people we love dearly. Consider how King Saul would thank David for sparing his life, yet remain David’s enduring enemy. Israel sang God’s praises when He delivered them from their troubles, but invariably they went astray. Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king, thanked and praised God for restoring his kingdom after his humiliation. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a>\n\nSelf-love and natural gratitude may produce an apparent but unspiritual love of God. For instance, people may love a “false notion of God” that never judges sin and must always be good to them. Callousness to internal wickedness, with “no sense of the heinousness of sin as against God, and of the infinite and terrible opposition of the holy nature of God against it” may also generate a kind of love toward God. When people imagine “a God as suits them, and thinking God to be such an one as themselves, who favours and agrees with them, they may like Him very well and feel a sort of love to Him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\n\nAdditionally, people may respond with “love” and gratitude to supposed revelations of God’s favor, especially when fears of hell precede comforting Scripture promises that come to mind suggesting that God loves them, has forgiven them, and adopted them. But,\n<blockquote>This good opinion of God was purchased and paid for in the distinguishing and infinite benefits they imagined they received from God: and they allow God to be lovely in Himself no otherwise that that He has forgiven them, and accepted them, and loves them above most in the world, and has engaged to improve all His infinite power and wisdom in preferring, dignifying, and exalting them, and will do for them just as they would have Him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></blockquote>\nIndeed, “Selfish proud man naturally calls that lovely that greatly contributes to his interest, and gratifies his ambition.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> And when affections generated from a false presumption of God’s favor produce greater affections, and this apart from saving faith, they reinforce the deception.\n<blockquote>When their affections are raised, then they view those high affections, and call them great and wonderful experiences; and they have a notion that God is greatly pleased with those affections; and this affects them more; and so they are affected with their affections. And thus their affections rise higher and higher, until they sometimes are perfectly swallowed up: also self-conceit and a fierce zeal rise withal; and all is built like a castle in the air, on no other foundation but imagination, self-love, and pride.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a></blockquote>\nExhilarating experiences can produce an unspiritual and false love toward God when the wonderful nature of the “discoveries” move the affections. But, “what they are principally taken and elevated with is not the glory of God, or beauty of Christ, but the beauty of their experiences.” “They take more comfort in their discoveries than in Christ discovered.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>\n\nTrue Love\nTrue love to God stands on the greatness of God apart from self-interest, “whereby He is in Himself lovely, or worthy to be loved, or the supreme loveliness of His nature.” God as “infinitely excellent,” as “infinite beauty, brightness, and glory itself,” forms the object of the saint’s love. One cannot love God without first loving God for who He is, for His beauty and excellence. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> Loving God’s benefits may accompany this love, but loving <em>gifts</em> is not the same as loving <em>God</em>.\n\nThe affections of false believers begin with presuming that God satisfies their self-interest and secondarily from considering God’s excellence. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> The true believer’s affections start with God, while love of His blessings follow in priority.\n<blockquote>They first rejoice in God as glorious and excellent in Himself, and then secondarily rejoice in the fact that so glorious a God is theirs. They first have their hearts filled with sweetness from the view of Christ’s excellency, and the excellency of His grace and the beauty of the way of salvation by Him, and then they have a secondary joy in that so excellent a Saviour and such excellent grace are theirs. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a></blockquote>\nTrue Love and True Gratitude\nTrue love forms the foundation of true gratitude and proceeds from “love to God for what He is in Himself.” Natural gratitude to God arises first from the receipt of benefits, apart from a true love of God, while “the gracious stirrings of grateful affection to God, for kindness received, always are from a stock of love already in the heart.” “The saint having seen the glory of God, and his heart being overcome by it and captivated with love to Him on that account…becomes tender and easily affected with kindnesses received.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a>\n\nMoreover, the believer’s gratitude also moves by God’s goodness and grace as they reflect the beauty of His attributes. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>The first foundation of the delight he has in Christ, is His own beauty; He appears in Himself the chief among ten thousand and altogether lovely. The way of salvation by Christ is a delightful way to him, for the sweet and admirable manifestations of the divine perfections in it: the holy doctrines of the gospel, by which God is exalted and man abased, holiness honoured and promoted, sin greatly disgraced and discouraged, and free and sovereign love manifested, are glorious doctrines in his eyes, and sweet to his taste, prior to any conception of his interest in these things. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a></blockquote>\n<em>“We love him, because He first loved us”</em>\nAt first blush, 1 John 4:19 might appear to affirm that our love to God stems from mere self-interest and natural gratitude. On the contrary, the passage it context highlights that God set His love on us while we had no love for Him: “herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us” (4:10). “That God loved us when we had no love to him, the apostle proves by this argument, that God’s love to the elect is the ground of their love to Him.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>The saint’s love to God is the fruit of God’s love to them, as it is the gift of that love. God gave them a spirit of love to Him, because He loved them from eternity. And in this respect God’s love to His elect is the first foundation of their love to Him, as it is the foundation of their regeneration, and the whole of their redemption. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a></blockquote>\nFrom His great love to us, God gave us a new heart to see and love His glory. Moreover, Christ redeeming sinners displays the beauty of God’s perfections, the basis of our love to Him. The beauty of God’s perfect holiness, justice, mercy, love, wisdom, and others, are most clearly seen in the person and redeeming work of Christ. Moreover, our love and gratitude flow from sight of God’s moral perfection and excellence as they relate to our own sin and salvation. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a> Indeed, we love God because chose us, saved us, opened our spiritual eyes to see the beauty of His infinite excellence, and a heart to love Him for it.\n\nTwo Joys\nFalse believers rejoice in the “privilege and happiness” they presume to have gained or will attain by the saving work of Christ and His excellent promises. But, a closer look reveals a joy and pride in being exalted above others, and great delight “in hearing how much God and Christ make of them. So that their joy is really a joy in themselves and not in God.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a> Believers, however, delight in God’s great blessings, but love first the excellent and lovely “nature of the things of God…the spring of all their delights and the cream of all their pleasures…the joy of their joy.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup></a> First and foremost, true believers rejoice in God.\n\nUp next: True religious affections stand on the moral excellence of God and divine things.\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 165-6; Yale, 240.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 166; Yale, 240-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 166-7; Yale, 241.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 168; Yale, 242.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 169-70; Yale, 243-4. See Exodus 15, 2 Kings 5:15-18, and Daniel 4, respectively.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 170; Yale, 244-5.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 171; Yale, 245.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 171; Yale, 246.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 177-8; Yale, 252.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 177; Yale, 251-2.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 168; Yale, 242-3.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 172; Yale, 246.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 176; Yale, 250.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 173; Yale, 247.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 174; Yale, 248.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 176; Yale, 250.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 174-5; Yale, 249.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 175; Yale, 249.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 175; Yale, 249.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 176-7; Yale, 251.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup> BT, 175; Yale, 249-50.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 17): Distinguishing Sign Two: Gracious Affections Stand on the Excellence of God, Apart from Self-Interest','','inherit','closed','closed','','12696-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:53:01','2023-03-21 09:53:01','',12696,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14706',0,'revision','',0),(14707,1,'2023-03-21 09:53:03','2023-03-21 09:53:03','The first distinguishing sign serves as both a mark of God’s gracious and saving work in a believer and the basis of the remaining eleven signs. The evidence of God’s saving work flows from the stamp of God’s holiness and happiness on the soul by the Holy Spirit taking up permanent residence and imparting His holy nature to us.\n\nWhat Is Spiritual?\nSpiritual people are “sanctified by the Spirit of God,” as distinguished from the “unsanctified” or “natural” man without saving grace and the indwelling Holy Spirit. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> “Mockers” are “sensual, having not the Spirit” (Jude 19). “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9).\n\nThe Holy Spirit dwells in believers “as a principle of new nature, or as a divine supernatural spring of life and action.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> “As a seed or spring of life, [He] exerts and communicates Himself, in this His sweet and divine nature, making the soul a partaker of God’s beauty and Christ’s joy.” His life flows in us like “rivers of living water” (John 7:38-39), given to “abide” in us forever (John 14:16). By the indwelling Spirit we have fellowship with the Father and the Son. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup></a>\n\nBelievers partake of the “divine nature” (2 Peter 1:4), of God’s fullness (John 1:16; Ephesians 3:17-19), of His “spiritual beauty and happiness” and goodness. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> We have been born of the Spirit (John 3:6) and are spiritually alive as Christ lives within us (Galatians 2:20, Romans 8:10). God, Himself, dwells in us (John 17: 21, 26; 1 John 4:12, 15, 16), and we are His temple (2 Corinthians 6:16).\n\nA “New Sense” Versus Natural Principles\nSpiritual and natural affections both delight in the object of their love, but differ in significant ways and love different and opposing things. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The natural man can no more fathom and appreciate the object of the saint’s gracious affections “than a man without the sense of taste can conceive of the sweet taste of honey, or a man without the sense of hearing can conceive of the melody of a tune, or a man born blind can have a notion of the beauty of a rainbow.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup></a>\n\nThus, “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). Believers have a new understanding, a new direction and love, and a new principle moving their will and affections, <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> while the unbeliever’s religious affections come from either the Holy Spirit’s common work on everyone, satanic deception, or the depravity of the fallen heart.\n\nMoreover, gracious affections can be faked and people deceived to experience new, surprising, and elevated religious affections unrelated to the new spiritual sense of believers. A poor man convinced he has been made a king might experience new and unfamiliar affections, but they would still be natural. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup></a>\n\nVisions, Imaginations, and Impressions\nMany during the Awakening imagined or had visions of biblical and spiritual things.\n<blockquote>They have had lively ideas of some external shape, and beautiful form of countenance; and this they call spiritually seeing Christ. Some have had impressed upon them ideas of a great outward light; and this they call a spiritual discovery of God’s or Christ’s glory. Some have had ideas of Christ’s hanging on the cross, and His blood running from His wounds; and this they call a spiritual sight of Christ crucified, and the way of salvation by His blood. Some have seen Him with his arms open ready to embrace them; and this they call a discovery of the sufficiency of Christ’s grace and love. Some have had lively ideas of heaven, and of Christ on His throne there, and shining ranks of saints and angels; and this they call seeing heaven opened to them. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup></a></blockquote>\nSome called visions that came with Scripture or Christ “speaking comfortable words to them” the “inward call of Christ, hearing the voice of Christ spiritually in their hearts, having the witness of the Spirit, and the inward testimony of the love of Christ, etc.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup></a>\n\nBut, as unbelievers can easily imagine a tree, animal, or block of wood, so they can imagine an image of Christ, a cross, blood, or any such thing. If they can imagine words spoken in their mind, they can imagine comforting words of Scripture. And the idea of “an external brightness and glory of God is no better than the idea the wicked congregation in the wilderness had of the external glory of the Lord at Mount Sinai, when they saw it with their bodily eyes.” If seeing Christ’s life and crucifixion in person does not save, as with the crowd in the Praetorium before Pilate or lining the road to Golgotha, neither will visions of Christ in the head. Affections raised by such things are common, natural, and no better than those moved by the sight of icons. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup></a>\n\nMoreover, the devil can plant ideas, as “in the dreams and visions of the false prophets of old, who were under the influence of lying spirits,” while the common work of the Holy Spirit can bring words to mind without bringing a new nature, such as when He used the wicked prophet Balaam (2 Peter 2:15, Jude 11). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> And that impressions come with Scripture in a supernatural way does not make the impressions or resulting affections spiritual. Many were deeply moved by Scripture texts they thought came to them from God, such as <em>“Fear not, it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom,”</em> because they appealed to self-love and appeared to come supernaturally, but not from a “sense of the holy and glorious nature of the kingdom of heaven and the spiritual glory of that God who gives it, and of His excellent grace to sinful men, in offering and giving them this kingdom of His own good pleasure.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup></a>\n\nTrust in experience and the seemingly supernatural way visions and Scripture texts came to mind, apart from saving faith, deceived many during the Awakening. When comforting promises followed fear of God’s judgment, they saw this as conversion, trusting the experience and way they came as “the foundation of their faith, and hope, and comfort.” But the Holy Spirit gives no assurance of salvation without saving faith. “Whatever spirit applies the promises of the covenant to a person who has not first believed, as being already his, must be a lying spirit, and that faith which is first built on such an application of promises is built upon a lie.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup></a> God’s eternal blessings and comfort come only by faith in Christ, by a new view, understanding, and love of His infinite excellence, sufficiency, grace, and promises. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup></a>\n\nThe <em>Seal</em> of the Spirit\nAs the king’s seal bears His image and communicates His special favor and privilege to others, according to his royal authority, so does the seal of the Spirit. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup></a> And unlike visions or revelations of facts to the mind, the seal of the Spirit is unknown to unbelievers. “The seal of the great King of heaven and earth enstamped on the heart is something high and holy in its own nature, some excellent communication from the infinite fountain of divine beauty and glory.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup></a>\n\nThe seal constitutes the down payment of new life, a pledge of payment in full, not in “extraordinary gifts,” but in the “beginning of glory” and “eternal life in the soul.” The seal forms “His vital indwelling in the heart, exerting and communicating Himself there in His own proper, holy, or divine nature…the sum total of the inheritance that Christ purchased for the elect.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup></a> By Him “saints have all their light, life, holiness, beauty, and joy in heaven,” as well as “all light, life, holiness, beauty and comfort on earth; but only communicated in less measure.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup></a>\n\nThe “Witness of the Spirit”\nSome professing believers misinterpreted the “witness of the Spirit” as a voice or <em>suggestion</em> to the mind that God favors them, establishing false assurance and a worthless basis for salvation. <em>Witness</em>, however, means <em>evidence</em>, as in Christ’s works giving witness to Him as the Messiah and that God the Father sent Him (John 10:25, 5:36), miracles giving witness to God’s Word (Hebrews 2:4, Acts 14:3), and rains and fruitful seasons giving witness to God’s goodness (Acts 14:17). <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup></a>\n\nThus, the seal of the Spirit, as God’s holy image stamped on the soul, imparting His nature and crying to God as Abba or Daddy—gives witness or <em>evidence</em> that we are His child. <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup></a>\n<blockquote>For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God (Romans 8:14-16).</blockquote>\nThe Spirit witnesses by “dwelling in us, and leading us, as a spirit of adoption, or spirit of a child, disposing us to behave towards God as to a father.... And what is that but the spirit of love?” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote22\\&quot;\"><sup>[22]</sup></a> “The spirit of bondage works by fear for the slave fears the rod: but love cries, Abba Father; it disposes us to go to God, and behave ourselves towards God as children; and it gives us clear evidence of our union to God as His children, and so casts out fear.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote23\\&quot;\"><sup>[23]</sup></a> Moreover, “Love, the bond of union, is seen intuitively: the saint sees and feels plainly the union between his soul and God; it is so strong and lively that he cannot doubt of it. And hence he is assured that he is a child.” <a href=\"\\&quot;#footnote24\\&quot;\"><sup>[24]</sup></a>\n\nBut, to reduce this high and holy gift to a voice or suggestion in the mind—something unbelievers can experience—denigrates it, promotes trust in verbal revelation apart from Scripture, and leads people to trust experience for assurance of salvation apart from saving faith in Christ.\n\nConclusion\nThe first distinguishing sign of a true work of God is the stamp of God’s holiness, happiness, and love in the soul by the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit, animating the will and moving the affections to childlike love of the beauty and excellence of God as revealed in Scripture—the fruit of saving faith in Christ. Satan and deceived hearts may outwardly imitate this new life in Christ, but can never duplicate or experience the lofty and holy image of God’s holiness, happiness, and love in the soul. The nature of this divine work will be examined further as we consider sign two, the excellence of God and divine things as the ground of gracious affections.\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote1\\&quot;\"><sup>[1]</sup> BT, 124-5; Yale, 197-8.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote2\\&quot;\"><sup>[2]</sup> BT, 127; Yale, 200.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote3\\&quot;\"><sup>[3]</sup> BT, 129; Yale, 201.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote4\\&quot;\"><sup>[4]</sup> BT, 130-1; Yale, 203.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote5\\&quot;\"><sup>[5]</sup> BT, 136; Yale, 208-9.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote6\\&quot;\"><sup>[6]</sup> BT, 135; Yale, 207-8.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote7\\&quot;\"><sup>[7]</sup> BT, 134; Yale, 206.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote8\\&quot;\"><sup>[8]</sup> BT, 137; Yale, 209-10.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote9\\&quot;\"><sup>[9]</sup> BT, 139; Yale, 211-2.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote10\\&quot;\"><sup>[10]</sup> BT, 140; Yale, 212.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote11\\&quot;\"><sup>[11]</sup> BT, 141-2; Yale, 213-4.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote12\\&quot;\"><sup>[12]</sup> BT, 143-4; Yale, 215-6.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote13\\&quot;\"><sup>[13]</sup> BT, 148-9; Yale, 221.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote14\\&quot;\"><sup>[14]</sup> BT, 149-50; Yale, 221-2.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote15\\&quot;\"><sup>[15]</sup> BT, 153; Yale, 225.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote16\\&quot;\"><sup>[16]</sup> BT, 158-9; Yale, 230-1.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote17\\&quot;\"><sup>[17]</sup> BT, 159; Yale, 231.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote18\\&quot;\"><sup>[18]</sup> BT, 161-2; Yale, 236.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote19\\&quot;\"><sup>[19]</sup> BT, 162; Yale, 236-7.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote20\\&quot;\"><sup>[20]</sup> BT, 159; Yale, 231.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote21\\&quot;\"><sup>[21]</sup> BT, 160; Yale, 232.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote22\\&quot;\"><sup>[22]</sup> BT, 163; Yale, 237.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote23\\&quot;\"><sup>[23]</sup> BT, 163-4; Yale, 238.</p>\n<p id=\"\\&quot;footnote24\\&quot;\"><sup>[24]</sup> BT, 164; Yale, 239.</p>\n\n<div id=\"\\&quot;openModalbpcta\\&quot;\" class=\"\\&quot;modalDialog\\&quot;\">\n<div>\n\n© 2023 Craig Biehl, author of <a title=\"\\&quot;God\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/god-the-reason-how-infinite-excellence-gives-unbreakable-faith-2/\"><strong><em>God the Reason</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-box-answering-the-faith-of-unbelief/\"><strong><em>The Box</em></strong></a>, <a title=\"\\&quot;The\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/the-infinite-merit-of-christ/\"><strong><em>The Infinite Merit of Christ</em></strong></a>, and <a title=\"\\&quot;Reading\" href=\"https://stage.pilgrimsrock.com/reading-religious-affections/\"><strong><em>Reading Religious Affections</em></strong></a>\n\n</div>\n<!--end table-text cell-->\n\n</div>\n<!--end modal window-->','Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 16): Distinguishing Sign One: Fruit of the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit','','inherit','closed','closed','','12674-autosave-v1','','','2023-03-21 09:53:03','2023-03-21 09:53:03','',12674,'https://pilgrimsrock.com.workshopanswer.com/?p=14707',0,'revision','',0),