Distinguish between position (being in Christ) and walk (conducting
yourself in Christ). When this distinction is not made, many things in
grace will be misunderstood, and many wrong doctrinal postulations will
be arrived at. Though we are perfectly placed in Christ (united with
Christ), we do not have a perfect walk. No member of the body of Christ
is more positioned in Him, yet, in walk, some have made more progress in
Christlikeness than others. We grow in grace, but we don't grow into
grace. It is the growth in grace that many mistake for being conditional
to being in grace. We persevere unto growth, but we believe into grace.
Perseverance helps us to grow in conformity with our exalted position
in Christ. This truth is important to note.
"And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ." 1 Corinthians 3:1
Note that those who the apostle Paul called carnal were also called brethren. In position, they were equal to the most spiritual believer, yet, in walk, they were babes. It must be the aspiration of everyone in Christ to grow in grace, yet, no one who has matured in Christ should ascribe being in Christ to his growth.
Toni
"And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ." 1 Corinthians 3:1
Note that those who the apostle Paul called carnal were also called brethren. In position, they were equal to the most spiritual believer, yet, in walk, they were babes. It must be the aspiration of everyone in Christ to grow in grace, yet, no one who has matured in Christ should ascribe being in Christ to his growth.
Toni
