1 Cor. iv. 15. We are regenerated by the
incorruptible "_seed of the word_." [Note 5] We are sanctified by "_the
truth_." In short, our call, [Note 6] our convictions, [Note 7]
regeneration, our faith, our sanctification, [Note 8] our preservation
[Note 9] and salvation, [Note 10] are all produced by the _word_ or
_truth_, and it must be the grand means of grace. [Note 11]
This truth, contained in God's Word, is therefore fully adequate to the
production of all the progressive changes, by which we pass from the
condition of the careless sinner to that of the advanced and sanctified
believer.
III. The _stage of progress_ in this moral renovation which in
_requisite_ before the returning sinner is _morally_ qualified for
pardon or justification, is that implied by a _living faith_. This
justifying faith may be defined to be, "that voluntary act of the
illuminated and evangelically penitent sinner, by which he confides in
the mercy of God through Christ for salvation, on the terms offered in
the gospel." [Note 12] A more historical faith implies no such
preparation, nor the more intellectual belief of the reality and truth
of the statements of God's Word, whilst the heart is estranged from him;
for with such a faith the devils believe and tremble but remain devils
still. Nor does the state of the convicted, or penitent, or seeking, but
yet unconverted sinners furnish such moral preparation to receive
pardon.
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