May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.
Is it possible to be thoroughly sanctified, set apart for God? Is a blameless life attainable for students of Jesus?
Paul says it is!
But how?
Here is the precise point many students of Jesus go wrong. They mistakenly think holiness depends only on their efforts. They attempt it on their own.
They fail of course. Sin often, get discouraged with themselves and sometimes give up! The exact opposite result Paul hopes for the new believers in Thessalonica!
Students of Jesus can grow in the likeness of Jesus, sin less and less, and do many good things, but they can never live completely blameless/sinless lives.
Being blameless can only come through trust in Jesus's work, not personal effort. It is not something believers can do for themselves! Note carefully what Paul wrote about this:
May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul is praying for someone to keep them blameless! But who?
The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
It is God, through Jesus’ life, forgiving every sin and declaring us to be blameless. Keeping us blameless in spite of our many failings!
Students of Jesus cooperate with the leading of the Spirit. Often overcome sin and do the right thing. Fulfill their destiny, become more like the Teacher! But...
The very best student of Jesus can never be blameless in their thoughts and actions. Yet, by the grace of God the worst students are kept blameless! What an encouraging thought to close this Letter!
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Being blameless can only come through trust in Jesus's work, not personal effort. It is not something believers can do for themselves! Note carefully what Paul wrote about this:
May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul is praying for someone to keep them blameless! But who?
The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
It is God, through Jesus’ life, forgiving every sin and declaring us to be blameless. Keeping us blameless in spite of our many failings!
Students of Jesus cooperate with the leading of the Spirit. Often overcome sin and do the right thing. Fulfill their destiny, become more like the Teacher! But...
The very best student of Jesus can never be blameless in their thoughts and actions. Yet, by the grace of God the worst students are kept blameless! What an encouraging thought to close this Letter!
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
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