“But you have not so learned Christ; if so be that you have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That you put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that you put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” Ephesians 4:20-24.

“In the life of the disciple, John’s true sanctification is exemplified. During the years of his close association with Christ, he was often warned and cautioned by the Saviour; and these reproofs he accepted. As the character of the Divine One was manifested to him, John saw his own deficiencies and was humbled by the revelation. Day by day, in contrast with his own violent spirit, he beheld the tenderness and forbearance of Jesus and heard His lessons of humility and patience. Day by day his heart was drawn out to Christ until he lost sight of himself in love for his Master. The power and tenderness, the majesty and meekness, the strength and patience, which he saw in the daily life of the Son of God, filled his soul with admiration. He yielded his resentful, ambitious temper to the molding power of Christ, and divine love wrought in him a transformation of character. …

Such transformation of character as is seen in the life of John is ever the result of communion with Christ. There may be marked defects in the character of an individual, yet when he becomes a true disciple of Christ, the power of divine grace transforms and sanctifies him. Beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, he is changed from glory to glory, until he is like Him whom he adores.” –The Acts of Apostles, pp. 557, 559.

Questions to think about:

Is the character of the Divine One manifested in me?

Do we feel how day by day our hearts become more and more drawn to Christ?

How does the power of the divine grace transform and sanctify us?