Deep Dive into Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin - Reputation of the False Accusations by Which the Papists Try to Cast Odium upon This DoctrineJohn Calvin's doctrine of justification by faith alone faces accusations of undermining good works and encouraging sin, but he vehemently refutes these. He clarifies that he advocates for neither a faith devoid of good works nor a justification that stands without them. Instead, he asserts that faith and good works are inseparable. Justification is lodged in faith because it is through faith that believers grasp Christ’s righteousness. Crucially, Christ justifies no one whom He does not at the same time sanctify, as these benefits are joined by an everlasting and indissoluble bond. Therefore, individuals are justified not without works, yet not through works, because sanctification is inherently included in their union with Christ.Calvin argues that removing the hope of merit does not stifle zeal for good works; rather, it provides sharper motivations. God desires to be freely worshiped and loved, not served for reward. The most potent spurs for holiness stem from gratitude for God’s initiating love and mercy, the transformative power of Christ’s redemption, and the desire that God may be glorified in us. These motivations, such as being cleansed by Christ’s blood to serve the living God or being freed from sin to cultivate righteousness, are superior to a mercenary pursuit of merit.Furthermore, the doctrine of free forgiveness of sins does not invite sin but actually fosters a greater dread of it. While forgiveness is free for believers, it was dearly bought by Christ at the immense cost of His most sacred blood. Understanding that every sin necessitated Christ's costly sacrifice, and that human defilement can only be cleansed by His purest blood, should make believers highly reluctant to return to sin and profane such a precious gift. This view contrasts sharply with opponents who, according to Calvin, cheapen forgiveness by suggesting God can be appeased by human "wretched satisfactions."Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730

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