I have seen God’s work in holiness described as the same as God’s work in the pardon of sin. But there is this essential difference: Forgiveness is an act of God in His own mind alone; holiness is a work of God in the mind of man, controlling and directing all the activities of the mind. Forgiveness is, therefore, altogether external to man, and must be received in trust alone; but holiness is a power and principle of human action, and therefore is developed in human activities. The distinction may be illustrated by repentance and forgiveness. Both are the gifts of our exalted Saviour. (Acts, v. 31.) But God forgives, and man repents. 4. It commences with a new creation in Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. v. 17; Eph. ii. 10. 5. It is the result of acceptance with God, and of the realization of His mercy. 1 John, iii. 2, 3; Rom. xii. 1. 6. The principle which God employs to produce it is faith. Acts, xv. 9; 1 John, v. 4. 7. The instrument which He employs to produce it is the truth as revealed in His own Word. John, xvii. 17. 8. The means by which it will be finally perfected will be the full view of Christ Himself. 1 John, iii. 2. PRACTICAL RESULTS. If there is any difference on the subject of Personal Holiness amongst those who hold the great principles of the Gospel, it is not likely to appear so much in General Principles as in their practical application to present life. It is, therefore, clearly important to ascertain what should be the extent, and what the limits, of the Believer’s expectation. If we do not expect all that He has promised, we cannot hope to rise to His standard; and if, on the other hand, we expect what He has not promised, we shall involve ourselves in either disappointment or delusion. It is well, therefore, to consider from the Word of God what we are taught to expect, and what we are not taught to expect. WE ARE TAUGHT— 1. That when we are created in Christ Jesus old things will pass away, and all things become new. 2 Cor. v. 17, 18. 2. That the Holy Spirit will dwell in our hearts. John, xiv. 17. 3. That He will purify them. Acts, xv. 9. 4. That we shall love the Lord Jesus Christ, and acknowledge our love. 2 Cor. v. 14; 1 John, iv. 19. 5. That we shall love the law of God, and delight in it Ps. cxix. 97; Rom. vii. 22. 6. That we shall be set free from the dominion of sin.