OUTLINE:

Sanctification is a function of obedience.

“the salvation of your souls”
This is both a current and future reason for confidence. Being saved, we shall be saved. Being saved daily, we shall be saved for all of eternity. “Salvation” instills eternal confidence.

Sanctification is a function of obedience.

Present, But Not “Present”
It is entirely possible, and sadly very common, to be physically present while somewhere else in our heads; that is, present, but really absent. Children, especially, sense this.

Deu 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Is 41:10
fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am
your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help
you,
I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand.

Present, But Not “Present”
It is entirely possible, and sadly very common, to be physically present while somewhere else in our heads; that is, present, but really absent. Children, especially, sense this.

Love crosses all chasms.

Our Presence Matters
Obedience requires presence. Love is commanded. Therefore, love requires presence - its expression proves its existence. Words are vapid in the absence of expression. E.g., “God shows His love for us...” (Ro 5:8).

Are you present but really absent?

Being “Present”
It’s impossible to be “present” if you’re disobedient. We are commanded to love others. However, love cannot be merely a word - we must be “present” in order to genuinely express it.

Sanctification is a function of obedience.

What is your attitude towards obedience?

An Obedient Mindset
Our minds must be fixed on obedience, as a way of life, not merely a laundry list of checkboxes (yes, there’s a difference). The prior is the sphere of sanctification, the latter religion.

“give, and it will be given to you”
This is a promise regarding grace. If we allow God’s grace to flow through us, we are blessed (cp. Pr 11:24-25). Love gives (Jn 15:12-13).

“let us be sober”
In other words, let us NOT be intoxicated with the world and its trappings. Let us rid ourselves, voluntarily and proactively, of the ties that bind us to evil things (e.g., people, habits, stuff).

Ro 13:14
But put on [enduo - same Greek word in 1Th 5:8] the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

MacArthur on 1Th 5:8’s “love”
Love for God is essential, as perfect love for Him yields perfect obedience to Him. [me: e.g., love expresses itself in obedience]

To divert your eyes from Christ is to divert them from blessings. (cp. Eph 1:3-6)

1Co 2:9
But, as it is written,
“What no eye has seen, nor ear
heard,
nor the heart of man
imagined,
what God has prepared for
those who love him”