INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. But ye are washed
2. But ye are sanctified
3. But ye are justified
Remarks.
1. In this lesson today we will be discussing the theme: “Such were some of you.” The beloved apostles wrote to remind these Corinthians; that they were once unworthy of the kingdom of God. He wrote: “Know you not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11. Here he means, the Holy Spirit.
2. First, we will discuss Paul’s first reminder, to these saints: “But ye are washed.” The idea here is that these saints were washed, and thus, “such were some of you.” The apostle first beings his discussions of their past life; by acknowledging that they were wash from their sins, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of their God. They were once unrighteous and unworthy of the kingdom of God; but, now as a result of their washing, they are now saints in the church of God, 1 Corinthians 1:2.
3. Second, we will consider Paul’s second reminder, to these saints: “But ye are sanctified.” Paul continues his address to these saints by reminding them that they also were sanctified; as a result of their washing from their sins, whether, fornicators, idolaters, adulterers or drunkards. They are now the: “Sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, and with all that (are) in every place call(ing) upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord,” 1 Corinthians 1:2. To be “sanctified” is to be “set apart” for the service of God. Paul wrote: “Know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s,” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
4. Lastly, we will investigate Paul’s last reminder, to these saints: “But ye are justified.” He notes that they are now justified in Christ. They were once unworthy of the kingdom of God; but, now they have been: “Justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of their God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11. Justification is, being made righteous in the eyes of God. These saints were no longer “unworthy” but, now made “righteous” in Christ Jesus. To the Romans Paul wrote: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God though our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in (the) hope of the glory of God,” Romans 5:1-2. With this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point in this lesson.
BODY OF LESSON
I BUT YE ARE WASHED
A. Paul begins our lesson with: “Know you not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God,” 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. He outlines the acts of unrighteousness. Consider....
1. First, he lists all the sexual sins, of unrighteousness:
a. Fornication, in Gr., is pornos or po'r-nos, which means a (male) prostitute (as venal), i.e. (by analogy) a debauchee (libertine):—fornicator, whoremonger. This refers to the temple prostitutes, both male and female.
1) Unlawful acts of sexual immorality. This is the word that makes up our English word: pornography.
2) This form of sexual behavior was associated with pagan temple worship. These all fall under the sin of fornication:
b. Homosexuals: The word effeminate, in Gr., is malakos or mä-lä-ko's, which means, of uncertain affinity; soft, i.e., fine (clothing); figuratively, a catamite:—effeminate, or soft.
1) This refers to men that abuse young boys sexually.
2) A catamite is a boy kept by a man for sexual (intercourse) pleasure.
c. Abusers of themselves with mankind. Abuser, in Gr., is arsenokoites or är-se-no-koi'-tas, which means, a sodomite:—abuser of (that defile) self with mankind. This is one who lies with a male as with a female, a sodomite. Paul includes all these sexual acts and behaviors as “fornication.”
d. Adultery, in Gr., is moichos or moi-kho's, which means, perhaps a primary word; a (male) paramour; figuratively, apostate:—adulterer. These include both male and females. It also includes faithlessness toward God, ungodliness. It includes both the whoremonger and adulterers, Hebrews 13:4; James 4:4. Before concluding this sin; it is needful to discuss the ways one can commit adultery. Are you ready for this church? Observe....
1) The physical act of adultery, Leviticus 20:10; Matthew 5:27. The Law commanded that such be stone to death.
Note: Illustrate: The woman caught in the very act of adultery, John 8:3-4.
2) The look of lust, Matthew 5:28. When a man looks on a woman, with lust in his heart; is another form of adultery.
a) This kind of behavior is just as evil; as the very act of adultery.
b) Guard your heart, for as one thinketh: “In his heart, so is he,” Proverbs 23:7.
c) For out of the heart: “Come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone,” Matthew 15:19-20.
3) The putting away of one’s spouse unlawfully, Matthew 5:32; Matthew 19:9; Mark 10:11-12; Luke 16:18.
4) The worship of idols and other gods, Jeremiah 3:8-9; Ezekiel 23:37; Hosea 4:13-14. This form of adultery was Israel and Juda’s greatest sins before God; their worship of Baal and other idols, under every tree and on every hill. We will return to this sin later in the lesson. But for now, Paul moves from sexual sins, to that of idolatry or (idol worship).
2. Idolatry: idolaters, in Gr., is eidololatres or a-do-lo-lä'-tras, which means an image- (servant or) worshipper (literally or figuratively):—idolater. These are those that worshipper of false gods, an idol.
a. The city of Corinth was full of idol worshippers of every kind.
b. Ephesus had its idols and worshipers, i.e., the goddess Diana, Acts 19:26-27.
3. Those that engage in thief and extortion:
a. The word thieves, in Gr., is kleptes or kle'p-tas, which means, a stealer (literally or figuratively):—thief. This includes an embezzler, or pilferer.
1) It also means, false teachers, who do not rightly instruct men or women; but abuse their confidence for their own gain, Romans 16:17-18; 2 Timothy 2:15.
2) This is the root word for our English word, “kleptomaniac.”
3) A kleptomaniac is, “a person with a recurrent urge to steal, typically without regard for need or profit.”
4) Paul wrote: “Let him that stole, steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to them that needeth,” Ephesians 4:28; Acts 20:34-35.
Note: Illustrate: Let’s do well unto all men; especially unto those of the household of faith, Galatians 6:10; 1 John 3:17.
a) A person that cannot be move to help others; in need, shall himself be without help, when in need, Proverbs 21:13; Proverbs 28:27.
b) But he that helps them that are in need: “The Lord shall repay him again,” Proverbs 19:17.
b. Extortioners, the word in Gr., is harpax or hä'r-päks which means, rapacious:—extortion, ravening. The word rapacious; include greediness, gluttonous and covetousness. We will speak to covetousness, next.
4. Covetous. The word covetous in Gr., is pleonektes or ple-o-ne'k-tas, which means, holding (desiring) more, i.e. eager for gain (avaricious, hence a defrauder):—covetous. This includes one that is desirous of things, which belongs to other; greedy of gain, covetous. Observe....
a. Paul repeats this sin to the Ephesians, “For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God,” Ephesians 5:5.
b. Paul reminds the saints at Galatia, of the “works of the flesh,” Galatians 5:19-21.
c. Paul warns Titus to appoint elders that: “Are not given to filthy lucre,” Titus 1:7. These are those that are not greedy for filthy lucre, or dishonest gain.
d. Finally, he moves to the improper use of drink (wine and strong drinks).
5. Drunk: drunkards, and revilers.
a. The word drunkard, in Gr., is methysos or me'-thü-sos, which means, tipsy, i.e. (as noun) a sot:—drunkard. This is one that is drunken, or intoxicated with drink (wine); or strong drink, Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 31:4.
b. The word revilers, in Gr., is loidoros or loi'-do-ros, which means, abusive, i.e. a blackguard:—railer, or reviler. We include these together, because one (drunkenness) incites the other (reviling) or abusive and railing behavior. Paul gives sound instructions to:
1) Timothy, that an elder must: “Not be given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre... not a brawler, not covetous,” 1 Timothy 3:3.
2) Titus, that a bishop must: “Not be soon angry, not given to wine, no striker,” Titus 1:7. These make up the elder or bishop’s most important characteristics.
3) Every saint should also strive to keep themselves from these kinds of sins.
6. Conclusion: We have outlined each of these ungodly behaviors, not to emphasize who they are, NOW; but, who they were, THEN. Paul wrote: “For such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
a. Let’s consider what he meant by: “But ye are washed.”
b. This is the first process of: “Regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5. Moving on....
B. But ye are washed. We now turn to the cure for all these sinful acts of behavior, outlined in this text. Paul notes that they were “washed.” This undoubtedly, takes them back to his preaching while with them in Corinth. Luke wrote: “The Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized,” Acts 18:8. This meant they had become obedient to the gospel of Christ, Romans 1:16. Observe....
1. First, reminds the Corinthians saints, that ye were (ONCE) “unrighteous and could not inherit the kingdom of God,” 1 Corinthians 6:9.
2. Further, but (NOW) ye are: “Washed, ye are sanctified, and ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
3. Finally, now for these Corinthians’ the: “Old things are passed away” and, they are now made righteous through the grace of God; and by their obedience to the gospel of Christ. I wish I had some help!
a. The question before us then: Did this washing forgive all the sins mentioned by Paul? Were all these obedient believers sanctified and justified in Christ?
b. Did this “washing of regeneration” remove the sin of adultery?
c. If not, what form of adultery is it; that the grace of God, could not forgive?
d. What form of adultery require more than the: “washing, sanctifying and justifying in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ; and by the Spirit of our God?”
Note: Review lesson, Are You in Christ, on SermonCentral.com, Ron Freeman, evangelist. This might answer these most important questions.
C. What does it mean to be washed? This clearly refers to baptism. Baptism then, is a washing or bathing in water; for the “forgiveness of sins,” Acts 2:38. This bathing or washing, is: “An answer of a good conscience towards God,” 1 Peter 3:20-21. But, not in order to put away, the filth of the flesh. Consider....
1. First, Ananias told Paul: “And now why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord,” Acts 22:16.
a. He was three days in Damascus repentant and praying, Acts 9:9-11.
b. Ananias came to Paul with the answer; and his healing, Acts 9:17.
c. And Paul arose, and was baptized, Acts 9:18.
2. Further, Paul wrote that the Corinthians: “Are washed” or “have been washed” in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
3. Next, he wrote Titus: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost... That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life,” Titus 3:5-7; Ephesians 4:30.
4. Finally, Paul wrote the Ephesian church: “Husband, love your wives...That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish,” Ephesians 5:25-27. The church has been sanctified and cleansed:
a. With the washing of water by the word. Most commentators agree that this is the washing of baptism; through the direction of the word of God.
1) The word washing, in Gr., is loutron or lü-tro'n, which means, a bathing, bath, i.e., as well the act of bathing; used in the N. T.; and in ecclesiastical writings, it is baptism. This coincides with John 3:3-5; Ephesians 1:13-14; Titus 3:5.
2) B. W. Johnson wrote: “That he might sanctify it. The great love of Christ for the church, his bride, is shown as an example to Christian husbands. Christ gave himself for the church. His object was to sanctify it, (to) make it holy. In order to do this it was needful to cleanse it with the washing of water by the word. All commentators of repute in all bodies refer this to baptism. All in the church pass through the waters of baptism. But the washing of the water would be of no avail without the word. The power is in the word of the Lord which offers the gospel and commands baptism,” Page 480-481. See also Acts 2:41; Acts 2:47.
3) Matthew Henry wrote: “The apostle, having mentioned Christ's love to the church, enlarges upon it, assigning the reason why he gave himself for it, namely...That he might sanctify and cleanse it, with the washing of water by the word (v. 26).... The instrumental means whereby this is affected are ... particularly the washing of baptism and the preaching and reception of the gospel,” Page 1252.
b. That it might be presented to Himself a glorious church.
c. That it should be holy and without blemish.
5. Conclusion: We (the church) have been washed, that we might have our sins forgiven; sanctified and cleansed, “with the washing of water by the word;” that we might be holy and without blemished, to be presented to Christ as a glorious church without spot or blemish. Amen somebody!
a. We are a new people; a new generation, a holy nation, 1 Peter 2:9.
b. A people at one time; that was without mercy, 1 Peter 2:10.
c. But now in Christ, we are “new creatures,” 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10.
D. John the Revelator wrote: “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood,” Revelation 1:5. Jesus shed his blood that we might have the “remission of sins,” Matthew 26:28. This occurs in baptism, Acts 2:38.
1. Jesus forgives our sins; when we: “Arise and be baptized to wash away our sins,” Acts 22:16. Paul admonishes us to....
2. Draw near to God: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water,” Hebrews 10:22.
3. This is a promise of a spiritual new birth; to become a new creature; the new man. That God creates: “Through the washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5.
4. God has placed cleansing in the water. Illustrate, Wilt Thou Be Made Whole, John 5:1-11. Must get in the water, when Jesus is in it!
E. This washing makes us new creature. The word creature in Gr., is ktísis, ktis'-is; original formation:—building, creation, creature, or an ordinance. Jesus, Paul and other New Testament writers described the believer’s new change in other forms. Observe....
1. Jesus describes this change, as the “new birth” or, “born anew,” John 3:3-5.
2. Paul defines this person as:
a. The “inward man,” Romans 7:22; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.
b. The “inner man,” Ephesians 3:16.
c. The “new man,” Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:9-10.
3. Peter addresses this person as:
a. Being “born again,” 1 Peter 1:23; James 1:18; 1 Corinthians 4:15.
b. One who exhibits the, “hidden man of the heart,” 1 Peter 3:4.
c. That we might be, “partakers of the divine nature,” 2 Peter 1:4.
4. Conclusion: The believer once hearing, believing and obeying the gospel; becomes a “new creature” or is “born again” which results in the “inward man, the inner man, the new man, and the hidden man of the heart.”
a. Paul wrote this is the: “Renewing of the mind,” Ephesians 4:23. And, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God,” Romans 12:1-2.
b. David wrote: “Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit in me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free Spirit,” Psalms 51:9-12.
c. This now takes us to the next point, and that is “but ye are sanctified.”
II BUT YE ARE SANCTIFIED
A. But you are sanctified. Paul continues with their life changing experience. He wrote: “But ye are sanctified.” The word sanctified, in Gr., is hagiazo or hä-ge-ä'-zo, which means, to make holy, i.e. (ceremonially) purify or consecrate; (mentally) to venerate:—hallow, be holy, sanctify or to set apart. The idea is to “purify” the believer, as a result of the: “Washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5-7; Ephesians 1:13-14; Ephesians 2:10. Sanctification is done:
1. To cleanse externally: “(by the washing of water by the word),” Ephesians 5:26.
2. To purify by expiation: to make free from the guilt of sin. Expiation is made for our sins when we are not punished for them; but, when another (Jesus) consents to stand in for the just penalty, for our sins. It is this act, by which reconciliation, is made possible. Sin is thus said to be, "covered" by a vicarious expiation or propitiation. Thank you Jesus! Consider....
a. Mercy-seat a cover: “And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy-seat, of which we cannot now speak particularly. Now when these things were thus ordained, the priest went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people,” Hebrews 9:5-7. Blessed are they: “Whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin,” Romans 4:6-8. This is a man who God, will not keep tabs or account of his sins.
b. Christ the propitiation: “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world,” 1 John 2:1-2.
c. The word propitiation, in Gr., is hilasmos or he-lä-smo's, which means atonement, i.e. (concretely) an expiator:—propitiation. The high priest makes an offering and expiatory sacrifice for the sins of the people; as was the case under the Law. Both words: “mercy-seat” and “propitiation,” in the verses above in the Greek is: “hilasmos.”
d. Conclusion: The mercy-seat of the Old Testament; and the propitiation of Christ blood in the New Testament, is each an example of a “vicarious expiation” for the sins of the people. The blood was sprinkled upon the mercy-seat in the holy of holies; to cover the sins of the people, as such, the blood of Christ was shed on Calvary; to cover the sins of the whole world. The Hebrew writer penned: “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without the shedding of blood (there) is no remission,” Hebrews 9:22; Hebrews 10:12-14.
3. To purify internally by renewing of the soul: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded,” James 4:8; Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 1:22.
B. We are set apart, away from the world and unto God, by the work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary. Notice:
1. First, God’s offering to sanctify us: “Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first; that he may establish the second.” This he means, be removal of the “first covenant,” Hebrews 9:14-17. Observe....
a. One, “By (this) will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. And every priest stand daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:”
b. Two, “But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God;”
c. Third, “From henceforth expecting till his enemies (become) or made his footstool.”
d. Fourth, “For by one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified,” Hebrews 10:9-14.
2. Further, the word offering in Gr., is prosphora or pros-fo-rä', which means, a presentation; concretely, an oblation (bloodless) or sacrifice:—offering (up).
3. Finally, God permitted Christ to offer Himself for our sins; and the sins of the whole world.
a. John wrote: He was the: “Lamb slain before the foundation of the world,” Revelation 13:8; John 1:29.
b. Paul wrote to the Ephesians: “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor,” Ephesians 5:2.
c. Paul wrote to the Hebrews: “Who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when he had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high,” Hebrews 1:3; 1 Peter 3:22.
d. Peter wrote: “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed...But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world...Who by Him do believe in God...that your faith and hope might be in God,” 1 Peter 1:18-21.
e. Conclusion: God permitted His Son Jesus Christ; to be offered as the promised lamb for our sins; and not ours only, but, for the sins of the entire world, John 3:16. That all who believe and obey Him, might have eternal salvation, Hebrews 5:7-9.
C. Sanctified by the word of God. Jesus prayed unto the Father: “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth,” John 17:17.
1. Jesus continues: “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth,” John 17:19.
2. Jesus includes us: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee...that they may be one, even as we are one,” John 17:20-23.
3. Luke wrote: “And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified,” Acts 20:32. This is Paul’s assurance unto the elders, in the church of Ephesus; in his “farewell speech unto them,” on the isle of Miletus.
4. Conclusion: God has sanctified the believers in Christ with His word. Jesus prayed that all believers might be one; even as He and the Father are one.
a. This will only be possible, when all men yield their will unto the Lord; even as Jesus did unto His Father, in the garden, Matthew 26:38-41.
b. This he prayed unto the Father: “Not my will, but as thou wilt.”
D. Sanctified by Jesus Christ. Paul speaks of Christ sanctification of the Gentiles, through his calling into the ministry, unto King Agrippa. Luke wrote: “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me,” Acts 26:18. What a great message to witness unto the heathens. He continues....
1. I was not disobedient: “Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision,” Acts 26:19.
2. I preached in Damascus: “But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance,” Acts 26:20. Pleading his case....
3. He informs the king, for this cause I am now bound, Acts 26:21-23.
4. The consultation between Agrippa and Festus, Acts 26:24-25.
5. Paul’s invitation to King Agrippa, Acts 26:26-27.
6. The King’s rejection: “Almost persuaded to become a Christian,” Acts 26:28.
7. Paul’s response unto the King, Acts 26:29.
8. The King’s admission to Festus, Acts 26:30-32.
E. Sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Paul wrote: “That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost...For I will not dare, to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me; to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,” Romans 15:16. Consider....
1. That the Gentiles were called: “To be obedient to the faith,” Romans 1:5.
2. That the gospel is the revelation of the mystery of God, Romans 16:25-27. Notice:
a. Paul was granted a divine understand of the mystery of God, by the divine revelation of Christ.
b. Paul’s message: “But I certify you, brethren that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ,” Galatians 1:11-12.
3. The mystery of God. To completely understand His “revelation” and how to apply it unto our preaching today, we need to consider Paul’s reference to the Romans, regarding the “revelation of Jesus Christ.” Observe:
a. Paul wrote: “Now to him who has made known the gospel to all nations for the obedience of faith...To God only wise be (is) glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen,” Romans 16:25-27.
b. Paul sets forth the wisdom and power of the work of Christ.
1) He is able to stablish you – “According to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ.” He can preserve thy soul, Psalms 121:7-8; 2 Timothy 4:16-18.
2) According to the: “Mystery, kept secret (hid) since the world began.”
3) But, “Now is made manifest and by the scriptures of the prophets.”
4) According to the: “Commandment of the everlasting God.”
5) God hath made known: “To all nations for the obedience of faith.” This phrase was introduced by Paul earlier in Romans: “By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name,” Romans 1:5; Romans 15:18-19; Acts 6:7.
Note: Illustrate: The Mystery of Godliness, Titus 1:1-3.
c. But, they all have not obeyed the gospel, Romans 10:16-18.
4. The mystery of Christ. God revealed to Paul the “mystery of Christ,” Ephesians 3:1-7. To the Ephesians he wrote:
a. First, he was a prisoner of Christ: “For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles. If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:”
b. Further, he received the revelation: “How that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ). Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit,” Ephesians 3:1-5.
c. Finally, he was shown the promise: “That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power,” Ephesians 3:6-7. An analogy:
1) If ye have heard of the: “Dispensation of the grace of God.” Have you heard of the dispensation of the grace of God? A rhetorical question! Yes, they heard.
2) Which is: “Given unto me (Paul) to you-ward (Gentiles);” it was given to him, that he might share it, to (you-ward) us.
3) How that: “By revelation he made known to me the mystery.”
4) As I: “Wrote afore in a few words.” Paul wrote of this mystery in a few words. Paul sets forth how the mystery of Christ, can be understood. Observe....
a) That whereby: “When ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ.” This mystery was written down for our learning. It comes through the believer’s reading and understanding, what the apostle had written.
b) Which in: “Other ages was not made known unto the sons of men.”
c) As it is now been: “Revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.”
5) Lastly, he unfolds the promise of Christ unto the Gentiles. That they should be:
a) Fellow heirs, and of the same body, and”
b) Partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.”
c) Illustrate: I Don’t See It Like That. Your problem is: “You ain’t been read ‘en.”
6) Conclusion: “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God,” Ephesians 3:7. This was given “unto me by the effectual working of His power.” And what a blessing this man was for the church; and the work of Christ. This now brings us to the last point, in this lesson.
III BUT YE ARE JUSTIFIED
A. But ye are justified. We are declared “just” before the court of God, not merely “not guilty;” but, declared as “righteous,” before Him. This is not a parole; but, a pardon for our sins. The idea is for one to be declared, or pronounced: just, righteous or innocent, by Christ, in the sight of God. Observe....
1. First, the word justified, in Gr., is dikaioo or de-ki-o'-o, which means, to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:—free, justify (-ier), be righteous.
2. Further, we are justified by God’s grace through the work of Jesus on the cross, by faith, and not by our own deeds or the works of the Law, Ephesians 2:8-8.
a. The obedient believer is: “Justified freely by God’s grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” Romans 3:24-26; Ephesians 1:7.
b. Therefore: “We conclude that a man is justified by faith, without the deeds of the law,” Romans 3:28; Galatians 3:11. He is justified by an obedient faith.
c. Abraham demonstrated an obedient faith; in offering up his son Isaac unto God, Genesis 22:11-12; Genesis 22:15-18; Hebrews 11:17-19; James 2:21-24.
3. Finally, “Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified,” Galatians 2:16.
B. The work of regeneration. This change was brought about by the: “Work of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5. They we described in verse 9; as being unworthy of the kingdom of God for their unrighteousness. Now in verse 11, they “are washed, they are sanctified, they are justified,” in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the Spirit of our God, 1 Corinthians 6:11.
1. First, our justification is due entirely to the merit of Christ’s grace; and our sanctification through the operation of the Holy Spirit: both working together through: “The washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5; Ephesians 5:26.
2. Further, the obedient believers are cleansed from the guilt of sin, and reconciled to God through Christ, by the sanctification of the Spirit. All made righteous in God’s presence; are made such, by His grace, and without the works of human merit or the Law. This was made possible by their obedience to the gospel.
3. Finally, Paul wrote to the Romans: “But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness...But now being made free from sin, and becoming servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord,” Romans 6:17-18; Romans 6:22-23. Paul outlined their obedience to: “That form of doctrine.” Consider...
a. They were once the servants of sin.
b. They obeyed from the heart: “That form of doctrine (baptism).”
c. They were made: “Free from their sins.”
d. They became: “Servants of righteousness.”
e. They had their: “Fruits unto holiness, and the end, everlasting life.”
f. They became partakers of: “The gift of God, eternal life.”
4. Conclusion: Does this teaching mirror the obedience of the Corinthians?
a. The Corinthians: “Hearing believe and were baptized (obeyed that form of doctrine); that made them free from their sins; called to be saints in the church of God.” Observe....
1) To the Romans he wrote: “To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ,” Romans 1:7.
2) To the Corinthians he wrote: “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours,” 1 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 1:1-2.
b. Paul wrote: “But ye are washed, ye are sanctified, and ye are justified; in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
c. Both these congregations were called “saints” in the Lord Jesus Christ. They had both obeyed the gospel of Christ; and were justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus. We will speak now to the “righteousness of God.” The seeker of truth; must ask, what does God require? This was absent from the Jew’s that sought salvation; eternal life through the Law of Moses.
Note: Illustrate: A Certain Lawyer, Luke 10:25-29. What must I do to inherit eternal life? Jesus said: What is written in the law?
C. Righteousness of God. Paul now speaks to the righteousness of God, through Christ’s sacrificial life and death. He wrote: “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is: that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For, they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves: unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the Law: for righteousness to everyone that believeth,” Romans 10:1-4. Notice his doctrine of righteousness by faith. Consider....
1. My heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is: that they might be saved. He has infinity for the Israelite nation. He desired that they might be saved.
2. I bear them record that they have zeal for God. They were devoted to the law and righteousness; that could be achieved by obeying all of its ordinances.
a. However, this zeal is without knowledge or true understanding.
b. They were ignorant of God’s righteousness (through faith in Christ).
1) They are establishing their own form of righteousness.
2) They are not submitting themselves unto the righteousness of God.
c. Paul illustrates his own search for righteousness, Galatians 1:13-16.
d. He confesses he found it in Jesus Christ, Philippians 3:4-11.
e. Conclusion: Therefore, Israel must also learn of the righteousness: “Not found in the law; but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith,” Philippians 3:9; 2 Corinthians 3:12-18.
3. For Christ is the end of the Law:
a. For righteousness that can be found in Christ.
b. For everyone that believeth in Christ as saviour.
c. Faith in Christ is man’s only hope of salvation. Christ sacrificial life and death; is the end (the culminating act that ended the Law; and meritorious works of righteousness to obtain eternal life), Matthew 5:17-18; John 19:30.
d. Christ is the perfection and consummation of the Law, for everyone that believeth.
1) Justification resides in Christ: “Though faith and obedience,” Romans 1:16; Romans 1:5; Romans 5:1-2.
2) Righteousness is obtained in Christ: “That we (who are in Christ) might be made the righteousness of God in Him,” 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:26-27.
3) Therefore, if any be in Christ:
a) All are become new creatures.
b) Old things are passed away.
c) All things are become new, 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10.
Amen, somebody!
Note: Review our sermon: “Are you in Christ” on SermonCentral.com.
D. In the name of the Lord Jesus. Paul now directs our attention to the name of the Lord Jesus. He invokes the Corinthians’ washing, sanctification and justification was done in the “name of the Lord Jesus.” This invocation goes as far back, unto Joel’s prophecy of the “outpouring of the Holy Ghost,” Joel 2:28-29. Notice:
1. First, Joel wrote: “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call,” Joel 2:32; Isaiah 28:16; Romans 3:11.
2. Further, Peter restates Joel promise of salvation on the day of Pentecost: “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved,” Acts 2:21; Acts 10:43.
3. Next, James the Lord’s brother. Spoke of the Gentiles: “Calling upon the name of the Lord,” at the Jerusalem Conference. He quoted Isaiah’s prophecy: “That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things,” Acts 15:17; Isaiah 43:7; Isaiah 65:1.
4. Moreover, Paul wrote the Romans: “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved,” Romans 10:13. The beloved apostles was describing the salvation afforded both Jews and Gentiles alike.
a. The “whosoever” includes all believers; from both the Jews and Gentiles nations: “That shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
b. Our challenge will be to enlighten people on how to, “calls upon the name of the Lord.” Let’s set it up with this last, “whosoever.”
c. That is: “All must believe and become obedient!” And it is in our obedience, in baptism, the repentant believer: “Calls upon the name of the Lord to be saved.” That he might wash away his sins, Acts 22:16; Hebrews 10:22; Revelation 1:5.
5. Likewise, whosoever obeyeth the gospel: “But they (Israel and Gentiles) have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith: Lord, who hath believed our (word) report?” Romans 10:16-18; Isaiah 53:1.
a. Notice the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in the preaching of Jesus unto the Jews, John 12:37-43.
b. Many interpret this phrase: “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved,” to mean that the sinner needs only to verbally cry out for salvation unto the Lord. Observe....
1) This however, is not a true interpretation of the phrase in the verse.
2) The word “call” in Gr. is epikaleo, which means to invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision, etc.):—appeal (unto), call (on, upon).
a) The idea presented by Paul in this text is the act of: “Calling upon the name of the Lord in obedience.”
b) Remember the words of our Lord: “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Luke 6:46; Matthew 7:21-23.
c. Paul asks several great questions as he begins to explain how one must: “Call upon the name of the Lord,” Romans 10:11-15. His questions:
1) First, “How then shall they call on him whom they have not believed?” The seeker of salvation must believe on Him before they call on Him!
2) Second, “How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?” The seeker of salvation must hear of Him before they can believe on Him.
3) Third, “How shall they hear without a preacher?” The seeker of salvation must hear about Christ through the preacher!
4) Forth, “How shall they preach, except they are sent?” The preacher must be sent with the message of salvation; the gospel of Christ.
5) Fifth, the preacher that brings the message; must be sent by Jesus Christ.
6) Sixth, but they have not all obeyed the gospel, Romans 10:16-21. He speaks here of his Jewish brothers. They all have heard; but they all have not obeyed!
6. Finally, Paul wrote the Corinthians: That their: “Washing, their sanctification, and their justification;” was due to their: “Calling upon the name of the Lord,” 1 Corinthians 6:11. This was done in the act of baptism, Acts 18:8. Baptism is performed “in the name of the Lord Jesus,” Acts 19:1-7; Matthew 28:18-20.
E. And by the Spirit of our God. Without trying to present a doctrine of the Trinity, Paul quite naturally – because he knew it was the truth about God – lists the three Persons of the Godhead in connection with this great work of God; in the life of these believers at Corinth. With this, let me move to a conclusion of this lesson. I thank you for your patience. In this message we considered....
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. But ye are washed
2. But ye are sanctified
3. But ye are justified
B. Remarks.
1. First, we discussed Paul’s first reminder, to these saints: “But ye are washed.” The idea here is that these saints were washed, and thus, “such were some of you.” The apostle first beings his discussions of their past life; by acknowledging that they were wash from their sins, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of their God. They were once unrighteous and unworthy of the kingdom of God; but, now as a result of their washing, they are now saints in the church of God, 1 Corinthians 1:2.
2. Second, we considered Paul’s second reminder, to these saints: “But ye are sanctified.” Paul continues his address to these saints by reminding them that they also were sanctified; as a result of their washing from their sins, whether, fornicators, idolaters, adulterers or drunkards. They are now the: “Sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, and with all that (are) in every place call(ing) upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord,” 1 Corinthians 1:2. To be “sanctified” is to be “set apart” for the service of God. Paul wrote: “Know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s,” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
4. Lastly, we investigated Paul’s last reminder, to these saints: “But ye are justified.” He notes that they are now justified in Christ. They were once unworthy of the kingdom of God; but, now they have been: “Justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of their God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11. Justification is, being made righteous in the eyes of God. These saints were no longer “unworthy” but, now made “righteous” in Christ Jesus. To the Romans Paul wrote: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God though our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in (the) hope of the glory of God,” Romans 5:1-2.
C. Invitation. Outline the plan of salvation.
D. Motivation.
E. Persuasion.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
We thank these prolific writers for their wisdom and insight into the Holy Scriptures. We acknowledge here our consultation of their work, in this lesson.
