I love the book of Ephesians. It is an entire invitation to a new way of life.
In the first chapter, Paul prays that the eyes of our hearts would be enlightened so that we might know "the hope to which he has called" us. Paul doesn't want us just to understand this hope or admire it. He wants us to know it, live it, and become it!
When I first learned about John Wesley's understanding of Christian perfection, I wondered why I had never heard much about it before. I think, too often, the phrase scares people before they ever hear what it means. Wesley was not describing a flawless or sinless life performance. He certainly would not expect anyone to carry a spiritual arrogance. He was talking about a heart so filled with the love of God that love becomes the ruling desire of our lives. A life being made whole in grace.
Do we not hear more about Christian perfection because we don't believe God can truly transform a human soul? Or is it because we are not sure we want that much transformation?
We are often content with forgiveness while resisting holiness. And it's quite all right to celebrate grace while keeping room for bitterness and ego.
But Paul prayed for something more for our faith. He prayed for awakened hearts. He prayed for a church alive with resurrection power. He points us toward Christ, who fills "all in all."
Holiness, then, is not a burden. In Jesus' name, it is the fullest sense of life available to us this side of eternity. God not only wants to pardon us but also to reshape us.
I still long for that kind of sanctified life. I want a heart radiant with the love of God that even ordinary moments begin to look like resurrection. And I want that for you, too.
Stay blessed...john
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