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That we are Purified as Christ is Pure, January 4
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as
he is pure.
1 John 3:3
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Christ would elevate and refine man’s mind, purifying it from all dross,
that he may appreciate the love that is without a parallel
Through repentance, faith, and good works he may perfect a righteous
character, and claim, through the merits of Christ, the privileges of the
sons of God. The principles of divine truth, received and cherished in the
heart, will carry us to a height of moral excellence that we had not deemed
it possible for us to reach.... “And every man that hath this hope in him
purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Holiness of heart and purity of life were the great subjects of the
teachings of Christ. In His sermon on the mount, after specifying what
must be done in order to be blessed, and what must not be done, He says,
“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
Perfection, holiness,—nothing short of this would give them success in
carrying out the principles He had given them. Without this holiness, the
human heart is selfish, sinful, and vicious. Holiness will lead its possessor
to be fruitful, and abound in all good works. He will never become weary
in well-doing; neither look for promotion in this world; but he will look
forward to be promoted by the Majesty of heaven when He shall exalt His
sanctified and holy ones to His throne.... Holiness of heart will produce
right actions
As God is pure in His sphere, so man is to be pure in his. And he will
be pure if Christ is formed within, the hope of glory; for he will imitate
Christ’s life and reflect His character
The princely dignity of the Christian character will shine forth as the
sun, and the beams of light from the face of Christ will be reflected upon
those who have purified themselves even as He is pure
Purity of heart will lead to purity of life
[11]
11
The General Conference Bulletin, October 1, 1899
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12
Testimonies For The Church 4:294
.
13
The Review and Herald, September 7, 1886
.
14
Gospel Workers, 366
.
15
Testimonies For The Church 4:357
.
16
The Signs of the Times, April 21, 1881
.
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