How can I fight sin? What are the tools I can utilize right now? Peter Van Mastricht bases his answer on the essential transformation we receive by the Holy Spirit outlined in 1 Corinthians 2:2–10. If believers are changed in this wonderful way of receiving spiritual wisdom, then the stuff we learn about Jesus can be used more wisely than my worldliness can fathom.
Something genuinely wonderful is happening that I cannot see when I start prayerfully thinking and meditating on the truths of Jesus Christ crucified, risen, and reigning. Mastricht says, “compared to this, there is nothing sweeter, nothing more effective, for raising up a conscience battered by the sense of any evils.” Rather, the Spirit uses the thoughts to lead us to the indescribably love of God, mercy, glory, our spiritual union with Christ.
We may consider our sinfulness disgusting, worthy of hate and despair, but even then, we must turn our minds to think of Christ. Yes, sin is repulsive and worthy of judgment… but that is why I must turn to remember my Christ upon the cross. To see I am dead with Him (Rom. 6:5–6) and thus I am raised with Him (2 Cor. 5:17).
Yet, we must take serious the fight of remembering our Risen Savior even as we become tempted. As we are tossed back and forth by the world, we need our minds raised, fixed, and ever ready for spiritual wisdom to work, taking our knowledge of Jesus Christ and discovering the Spirit’s supernaturally wise use for our situation.
Be prepared for such an answer even to your own heart!
Pastor Chris
Leave a Reply