I like how Calvin puts it: “When we present our merits to God – we ask for his judgment upon us & not his mercy & therefore, we are condemned.” (Inst. 3. 20. 45)
A Good Conscience
Calvin points out that “a good conscience is nothing but inward integrity of heart, and that the fulfillment of the law is love from a clear conscience and sincere faith.” He further says that his conscience was subject to the observance of God’s law even if no one else lived on earth. (Inst. III. 14.16). A guilty conscience comes then, from violating God’s law – sin is lawlessness.
Apprehended By Christ
Thomas Boston (1676 – 1732) says: “When Christ apprehends a man by His Spirit, he is so drawn that he comes away to Christ with his whole heart: for true believing is believing with all the heart.”
(Human Nature in its Fourfold State, p. 283)
Promises Performed
Whatever God mercifully promises, he faithfully performs.
(Calvin, Inst. III.13.4, p. 766)
Loving Your Enemies
Loving our enemies (Luke 6:27 – 42) involves:
- The loss of personal personhood
- The loss of personal privilege
- The loss of personal power
- The loss of personal possessions
We must:
- Forego
- Forgive
- Follow
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