How Faith Is Made Perfect, March 26

Faith and the Gospel

Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. James 2:17.FLB 91.1

The expulsion of sin is the act of the soul itself. In its great need the soul cries out for a power out of and above itself; and through the operation of the Holy Spirit the nobler powers of the mind are imbued with strength to break away from the bondage of sin.FLB 91.2

When man surrenders to Christ, the mind is brought under the control of the law, but it is the royal law, which proclaims liberty to every captive. Only by becoming one with Christ can men be made free. Subjection to the will of Christ means restoration to perfect manhood. Sin can triumph only by ... destroying the liberty of the soul.FLB 91.3

Do you realize your sinfulness? Do you despise sin? Then remember that the righteousness of Christ is yours if you will grasp it. Can you not see what a strong foundation is placed beneath your feet when you accept Christ? God has accepted the offering of His Son as a complete atonement for the sins of the world.^{111The Youth's Instructor, September 20, 1900.}FLB 91.4

True faith, which relies wholly upon Christ, will be manifested by obedience to all the requirements of God.... In all ages there have been those who claimed a right to the favor of God even while they were disregarding some of His commands. But the Scriptures declare that by works is “faith made perfect”; and that, without the works of obedience, faith “is dead.” ^{112Patriarchs and Prophets, 73.}FLB 91.5

Satan believes and trembles. He works. He knows his time is short, and he has come down in great power to do his evil works according to his faith. But God's professed people do not support their faith by their works. They believe in the shortness of time, yet grasp just as eagerly after this world's goods as though the world were to stand a thousand years as it now is.^{113Testimonies for the Church 2:161.}FLB 91.6

Do you believe that the end of all things is at hand, that the scenes of this earth's history are fast closing? If so, show your faith by your works. A man will show all the faith he has.^{114Testimonies for the Church 1:704.}FLB 91.7