“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8.

“Spurious sanctification carries with it a boastful, self-righteous spirit which is foreign to the religion of the Bible. Meekness and humility are the fruits of the Spirit. The prophet Daniel was an example of true sanctification. …

Instead of claiming to be pure and holy, this honoured prophet identified himself with the really sinful of Israel, as he pleaded before God in behalf of his people: “We do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousness, but for thy great mercies” (Daniel 9:18). “We have sinned, we have done wickedly” (verse 15). And “for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach” (verse 16). …

Those who are truly seeking to perfect Christian character will never indulge the thought that they are sinless. The more their minds dwell upon the character of

Christ, and the nearer they approach to His divine image, the more clearly will they discern its spotless perfection, and the more deeply will they feel their own weakness and defects. Those who claim to be without sin give evidence that they are far from holy. It is because they have no true knowledge of Christ that they can look upon themselves as reflecting His image. The greater the distance between them and their Saviour, the more righteous they appear in their own eyes.” –Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 97.

Questions to think about:

What are the fruits of the Holy Spirit?

Do our minds dwell upon the character of Christ?

Do we realise that those who claim to be without sin give evidence that they are far from holy?