by Islip Collyer

Introduction

"ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Justification can only come through the mercy and forgiveness of God and by an imputation of righteousness which is beyond our natural powers to attain. This constitution of righteousness is offered through Christ, the only perfect one, and it is offered on the basis of faith in the Gospel.

This is the doctrine plainly and most emphatically taught by the apostle Paul. He repeatedly affirms that it is not by works that we can be justified; "not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy" (Romans 9:16). But while belief and obedience to the Gospel turn a sinner into one who is called a saint, they do not ensure acceptance into the Kingdom of God. "As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ": but it is those who "are Christ's" who are the true heirs (Galatians 3:27-29). This means that having put on Christ we must abide in him John 15:4.

Having been buried with him by baptism into his death, we must "walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:4). Having put off the old man and put on the new, there must be continual renewal after the example of the One who made this newness possible (Colossians 3:10). This involves "working out our salvation with fear and trembling"; patient continuance in well doing; "keeping the body under and bringing it into subjection" (1 Corinthians 9:27). We must not be weary in well doing. He that sows to the spirit will reap the fruit of the spirit, and he that sows to the flesh will reap the fruit of the flesh-that is, corruption (Galatians 6:8).

All the thoughts expressed in these quotations are from the apostle Paul. It is one of the most astonishing perversions of theological reasoning which has regarded Paul as denying the need for works of righteousness. His contention is that our own works are totally inadequate, and God has shown mercy in making it possible for us to draw near through Christ. But in drawing near we must do our best, feeble though that is. Apart from Christ we are as naked savages not fit to approach anywhere near to the palace of the King. The King is willing to excuse our native uncouthness if we have faith in His promises and render obedience to the Gospel call. He has provided garments for us to put on, but no one must suppose that once having been clothed he will be acceptable in spite of ill behaviour. We must give of our best even if it is only regarded as a thank offering, for even our best is far short of perfection. We must wear the divinely appointed garments or we cannot draw near; we must wear them worthily to the limit of our ability, or we cannot be tolerated among the redeemed.

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