Gracious Affections Bear Fruit in Christian Practice | Jonathan Edwards

Deep Dive into Religious Affections by Jonathan Edwards - Gracious and Holy Affections Have Their Exercise and Fruit in Christian Practice Holy practice, as the exercise and fruit of genuine spiritual affections, is a chief distinguishing sign of true and saving grace. It encompasses three essential aspects that reveal a transformed nature within a Christian. First, Universal Obedience demands that a believer's entire life and conduct are universally conformed to and directed by Christian rules. This involves not only avoiding sins of commission, like being a thief or liar, but also actively pursuing the "positives of religion" such as being devout, humble, charitable, and forgiving. It crucially means parting with one's dearest iniquities and embracing even the most challenging duties, indicating a complete surrender. Partial obedience, where individuals pick and choose which commands to follow, is explicitly contrasted with this comprehensive commitment. Second, Earnestness and Diligence mean that the true Christian considers religion their main business and chief devotion. They pursue it with the "highest earnestness and diligence," dedicating their whole hearts and chief strength to God's service. This commitment is likened to strenuous physical exertions such as running, wrestling, and fighting, underscoring that the "kingdom of heaven is not to be taken but by violence." Slothfulness in serving God is deemed as damning as open rebellion. Third, Perseverance to the End of Life emphasizes that this way of universal obedience and diligent service continues unwaveringly through all changes and under all trials. It is the continuous business of their entire life, not just for specific seasons. While true saints may fall into great sins, they never habitually dislike or neglect religion or cease universal obedience. This enduring steadfastness, particularly amidst difficulties and temptations, proves an internal, divine principle and transformed nature, clearly distinguishing genuine grace from temporary or superficial religious displays of hypocrites. Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian https://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730