Looking to the future

The third action of grace consists of uplifting our hearts for a glorious future.

"The blessed hope and glorious appearing" (NKJV wording) in our text are two subjects under a single article because they refer to the same event viewed from two sides. For believers the second coming of Christ is the consummation of our hope (1 Tim. 1:1). For Christ Himself this awaited appearing marks the culmination of His salvation mission.

The transforming action of grace is encompassed here as a process from grace to glory, from redemption to sanctification, from the past (verse 12) to the future (verse 13). The phrase "who gave himself for us" alludes to Christ's sacrifice and ministry (Heb. 9:11-14), expressing both representation and solidarity.

From Christ's ministry on our behalf three main actions are mentioned: to "redeem" us from all evil, to "purify" us from sin, and to qualify and motivate us for good works. The results of humanity's covenant with God, from the Exodus to the end of times, are always the same: redemption, purification, and constitution of a new partnership with God (Eze. 37:23).

The words "to redeem us from all iniquity" make explicit that the effect of grace is not merely deliverance from the penalty of sin, but also from its power and consequences.

To "purify," indicates that the goal of grace is spiritual restoration of the believers to God's likeness, to His friendship, and to His service. God liberates His people so He can be their God (Ex. 6:6). Saving, justifying grace leads to sanctifying grace. The grace of God is the ground of all sanctification. True conversion includes discipleship.

The expected result is a "chosen, special, dedicated people" (periousios), "zealous of good works" (KJV). The remnant people of God are a committed people who combine watching and doing. The blessed hope makes them watch as they work until the Lord comes.

In fact, it is divine grace expressed in the quality of all our human relationships that will be the most effective witness of the church to the character of God's saving purpose. Dispensing grace was the central mission of Jesus. Dispensing grace is the central mission of the church. Theology and ethics belong together. A correct understanding of God's will produces a coherent obedience to His commandments. There is an inseparable connection between conviction and conduct, between faith and facts, between belief and behavior.

The results of the Fall--sin, guilt, condemnation, fear, anger, and a multitude of negative, self-centered emotions--destroy the beauty we were created to exhibit. But the transforming power of God's grace makes of us finally the wonderful people God created us to be. Through Christ, transformed by His grace, our future is bright.