“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies…” – Colossians 3:12
Scripture reading: Colossians 3:12-17
When it comes to sanctification, the fact that we are both sanctified and being sanctified is essential to growth in the Lord. Reformed theologian G.K. Berkhouwer claimed that genuine sanctification would stand or fall based on the Christian’s grasp on how Christ has already made them holy.
If we try to grow in holiness so that we can be forgiven and accepted before God, we have the Christian life backwards. This approach makes true growth in godliness impossible, because our efforts will be built upon ourselves. Our holiness will be like the house built on the sand that Jesus described in Matthew 7 – it may look good from the outside, but it has no substance in the time of trial.
But if we grow in holiness as the elect of God who are already holy and beloved in Christ, then we have the foundation by which true life transformation can actually take place. This does not mean that growth in Christ will be easy. The Bible describes growth with phrases like “putting to death,” or “fighting the good fight.” Sanctification requires effort, but in Christ this effort bears fruit. As the elect of God, we can actually put on Christ-like character, and grow nearer to God throughout our lives.
Are you growing in the things of God? Are you on the right foundation for genuine growth? God calls us to work, but to do so as those He loves and has made holy in Christ. May God help us to respond!
Suggestions for prayer
Pray that God would help us to build on His foundation for true growth in Christ-likeness.
Pastor Greg Bylsma is the pastor of the Living Water Reformed Church of Brantford, Ontario (a member church of the URCNA). He is a graduate of Mid-America Reformed Seminary and was ordained to the Gospel ministry in 2005. After over 20 years in the ministry, he still loves his job and considers it an incredible honour to be able to teach others about the beauty of Jesus Christ. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.