Future Grace reflections from Intro #2

The faith that justifies also sanctifies

Faith, which is alone the means through which pardoning grace justifies, is also the faith through which empowering grace sanctifies.

Faith alone justifies, but the faith that justifies is not alone... it is accompanied by deeds rooted in love, rising from our new affections.

Good works are an evidence of authentic faith - James 2:18, proving saving faith, not producing salvation.

Justifying faith is also sanctifying faith - Gal 5:6 "faith working through love"

Those who have experienced saving faith, will experience a new appetite for completing deeds done in love.

Justification is an act of God's reckoning [righteous as Christ]; sanctification is an act of God's transforming [becoming Christ-like in values and mind].

Justifying faith is not only a trusting in the past grace of God, but also in the future grace of God, secured by the past grace of Christ's death and resurrection.

Faith is not mere intellectual assent [demons believe - James 2:19], but is also a vital heartfelt satisfaction with God.  A sigh of relief and rest.... total trust.