[180] Justification is by Faith Alone, but Not by a Faith that is Alone
Our justification is based on the perfect obedience of Jesus Christ alone; our works play no part. But our good works are necessary to prove that we have been justified.
[181] Christians are God’s Adopted Children
God not only saves those who trust in Christ for salvation, he adopts them into his family. This is the apex of privilege for a Christian.
[182] God’s Family
Believers are adopted members of God’s family and have all the commensurate privileges and responsibilities; they are to imitate God, glorify God and seek to please God.
[183] Jesus Christ, God’s Unique Son
As God’s children, Christians can know that their troubles are all for their eternal good. Although Christians are adopted children, Jesus Christ is the unique, eternal Son of God, the only Savior.
[184] Adoption is Forensic
Adoption is a legal declaration by God, which changes our status, not our nature. But, God only adopts regenerate people, who are different.
[185] Definitive Sanctification
Christians are called to be holy; that is, to be sanctified. Definitive sanctification is the beginning of this process and refers to the radical change in nature brought about by regeneration.
[186] We Died to Sin
Christians are not sinless, but they are different from the moment they are born again. God hates hypocrisy and does not accept all worship.
[187] Holiness is the Key to Happiness
Holiness is the key to happiness. God makes Christians holy through the process of sanctification; we must say “No” to sin.
[188] Steps to Holiness and Happiness
Christians have died to sin and are alive to Jesus Christ. They cannot and will not continue to live in sin, they will repent and obey.
[189] Free to Not Sin
We were slaves to sin, but Christ has freed Christians from sin, we are now free to not sin. We have power to obey God.
[190] Live Under Grace
God gives grace to every Christian, which is his power to overcome sin, Satan and the world, and to live a victorious life for his glory.
[191] What is a Means of Grace?
Grudem says, “The means of grace are any activities within the fellowship of the church that God uses to give more grace to Christians.”
[192] God’s Communication to Believers
God’s most important means of communicating to his people is the Bible. Believers must study the Word regularly and carefully.
[193] Communicating Through the Word and Prayer
Relationships require two-way communication. God communicates to us primarily through the Bible. We communicate to him through prayer.
[194] The Benefits of Prayer
Prayer is a great privilege that brings many benefits to believers.