However, the person who joins the Church, but it not born again, is simply a dead branch, and cannot produce genuine fruit. Jesus says he will be cut off, and thrown into the fire and burned. He is a false convert.
In his book 'Holiness', Bishop Ryle says this:
"The branch which bears no fruit is no living branch of the vine.
The union with Christ which produces no effect on heart and life is a mere formal union, which is worthless before God.
The faith that has not a sanctifying influence on the character is no better than the faith of devils."
May the Lord be merciful to His Church, and grant us fortitude to preach that one needs to be born again, and that this new life will be a life of sanctification. Amen.
6 comments:
Tough words from Ryle. A message worth heeding, though.
Boy, you've been quite prolific lately! You are a blessing to your readers.
Thanks bro.
Great thoughts, Don, and great quote from Ryle. I love the word, "fortitude."
Don,
Keep Ryle coming! He's underquoted in my opinion among the greats. Great post!
Thanks Jonathan.
Greg, I'll do that bro.
Great comment Don.... The thing we don't seem to hear as much of today is the power that comes with being born again. The old great preachers like Ryle were so good at pointing out the power of God in salvation.
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