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How Successful Are Modern Revivals?
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the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
Hebrews 6:1
;
Ephesians 4:13
;
Philippians 3:14
.
Those who experience Bible sanctification will manifest humil-
ity. They see their own unworthiness in contrast with the perfection
of the Infinite One. The prophet Daniel was an example of true
sanctification. Instead of claiming to be pure and holy, this hon-
ored prophet identified himself with the really sinful of Israel as he
pleaded before God in behalf of his people.
Daniel 10:11
;
9:15, 18,
20
;
10:8, 11
.
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There can be no self-exaltation, no boastful claim to freedom
from sin on the part of those who walk in the shadow of Calvary’s
cross. They feel that it was their sin which caused the agony that
broke the heart of the Son of God, and this thought will lead to
self-abasement. Those who live nearest to Jesus discern most clearly
the frailty and sinfulness of humanity, and their only hope is in the
merit of a crucified and risen Saviour.
The sanctification now gaining prominence in the religious world
carries a spirit of self-exaltation and disregard for the law of God that
mark it as foreign to the Bible. Its advocates teach that sanctification
is an instantaneous work, by which, through “faith alone,” they
attain perfect holiness. “Only believe,” say they, “and the blessing
is yours.” No further effort on the part of the receiver is supposed
to be required. At the same time they deny the authority of the law
of God, urging that they are released from obligation to keep the
commandments. But is it possible to be holy without coming into
harmony with the principles which express God’s nature and will?
The testimony of the Word of God is against this ensnaring
doctrine of faith without works. It is not faith that claims the favor of
Heaven without complying with the conditions upon which mercy
is to be granted. It is presumption. See
James 2:14-24
.
Let none deceive themselves that they can become holy while
willfully violating one of God’s requirements. Known sin silences
the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God.
Though John dwells so fully upon love, he does not hesitate to reveal
the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living
in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know him, and
keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in
him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God