Summary:

The teaching emphasizes the ongoing significance of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the lives of believers. It highlights the concept of union with Christ, which not only saves but continually sanctifies and empowers believers. This union with Christ is the foundation of various blessings, including justification, adoption, and eternal life. The teaching also delves into the distinction between union and communion with Christ. Union is a fixed, unchangeable reality accomplished by God alone, while communion is the ongoing relationship and fellowship with Christ that believers participate in. The teaching urges believers to guard their communion with God and with one another by adhering to sound doctrine, avoiding quarrels, and pursuing righteousness and holiness. It emphasizes the importance of correctly handling the Word of God and encourages believers to strive for excellence in their Christian walk, to be set apart for God’s purposes, and to actively pursue spiritual growth alongside fellow believers. Ultimately, the teaching calls for a collective effort among believers to uphold the truth of the gospel and to live lives that glorify God.

Key points:

• The gospel of Jesus Christ continues to save and sanctify believers throughout their lives.
• Union with Christ is foundational, providing justification, adoption, and eternal life.
• Union with Christ is a fixed reality accomplished by God alone, while communion with Christ is ongoing fellowship.
• Believers are urged to guard their communion with God and each other by adhering to sound doctrine and avoiding quarrels.
• Correctly handling the Word of God is essential for believers.
• Striving for excellence, being set apart for God’s purposes, and pursuing spiritual growth alongside fellow believers are encouraged.
• Collective effort among believers is necessary to uphold the truth of the gospel and live lives that glorify God.

Bible References:

• John 14-17
• 1 Timothy 1
• 2 Timothy 2