1CORINTHIANS 1:30: “But of Him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” The words “made unto us” in this verse simply means an impartation, giving us the right to manifest the imparted gift. Wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption are synonymous with the character of Jesus Christ Himself. Therefore, when we manifest these gifts we must be acutely aware that this cannot be attributed to our own ability, but to that of the attributes of Jesus who works in and through us for His glory.

Many of us are in error in believing, like the Pharisees of that day, that our outward appearance is an indication of our sanctification and righteousness. The way we dress, our piety and our “holier than thou” attitude are in no way an indication of our true heartfelt conviction of the truth in Christ Jesus. When we practise that doctrine we are in danger of flirting with a religious spirit. Jesus rebuked that spirit in the Pharisees by calling them “white-washed sepulchres” – having an appearance of piety, but actually corrupt on the inside. They were in fact guilty of gross hypocrisy.

Wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption are gifts of love, patience, holiness, faith, grace and godliness which exhibit the perfection of the life of Christ in and through us. The supernatural wisdom of Christ enables us to operate in God’s accuracy. Righteousness gives us right standing with our Heavenly Father, and through Jesus Christ we have access to God’s presence. By sanctification we are a people separated unto God in good works for His honour and glory. In redemption we have been bought back from the condemnation of sin by the atonement of Jesus Christ. The attainment of these gifts is simply through our decision to receive Jesus Christ as the Son of God and to live a yielded life obedient to the will of God, our Heavenly Father.

Eternal Father, we thank You for our redemption by Your generous free gift of grace. We acknowledge this gift though free, but cost You the precious life of Your Son Jesus Christ. May we as a nation graciously accept this gift and so manifest the perfect qualities of Jesus Christ.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

celtakirk@yahoo.com