The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum "Experimental Salvation" by A.W. Pink

It would appear that we are now on the same page with one small exception.

Yes, regeneration is that work of the Spirit that creates a genuine desire to love God and to do all that He requires. And it is the same Spirit that works sanctification in us to continue in the truth and to do all righteousness.

However, there are times when our love to do that which is pleasing is all but extinguished, to which most who are born of the Spirit will admit to. Do we then sit back and wait for a "refreshing of the Spirit" and until then refrain from doing that which God requires of us? We are to be OBEDIENT regardless of how we "feel". We are to read and study the Scriptures, for example, even when we don't feel like it. It is in these circumstances when we are to put aside how we feel and simply submit to the will of God because we know it is the right thing to do.

Philippians 3:13-14 (ASV) "Brethren, I could not myself yet to have laid hold: but one thing [I do], forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Remember, Paul made it crystal clear that we are to work out our own salvation (aka: sanctification) with fear and trembling. Yes, love is the desired motive out which we keep God's commandments. (Jh 14:15; 15:10; 1Jh 5:3) However, on the flip side, John also says, if we keep God's commandments, this shows that we do love him. (1Jh 5:2; 2Jh 1:6). So you see, that BOTH are true... doing out of love and showing that we love by doing.

In His grace,