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{Sermons on Ephesians 5:15
Evidence for the Absolute Necessity of Precise Godliness
From Reasons Drawn from Scripture: Six Propositions
Inward Holiness Is a Holy Frame or Habit}
This inward holiness that the Gospel requires does not consist of some sudden and inconstant good thoughts or some transient good emotions, but is a holy frame or habit. This much is implied by the previously mentioned expressions “another Spirit,” “a new heart,” or “a new creature.” Intermittent holy thoughts or good desires are not the same thing as a new heart. Such intermittent holy thoughts or good desires give no evidence that the heart is renewed. Just as in a renewed heart there may be some evil thoughts and evil lusts arising and working, so likewise, some good thoughts and emotions may spring up in an evil heart. True holiness is not a fit, but a frame. There may be fits of passion, pride, or envy (too often) in a saint; yet in the main, he may still be a saint. Likewise, sometimes there may be fits of devotion or zeal in a sinner, but he is still a sinner. Holiness is the temper and constitution of a Christian and of the new nature that abides in him.
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