Acceptance

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This word is commonly used to mean salvation. In Scripture, however, it is only so used in Acts 10:3535But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. (Acts 10:35), and perhaps Eph. 1:66To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. (Ephesians 1:6). This, however, is literally “hath graced us.” Elsewhere it is always used practically, and alludes not to salvation, but to the Christian’s walk and ways. Such passages as Rom. 14:1818For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. (Romans 14:18), and 2 Cor. 5:99Wherefore we labor, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. (2 Corinthians 5:9), are most mischievous if misapplied. The word used is elsewhere rendered “well-pleasing,” Rom. 12:22And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2); Phil. 4:1818But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. (Philippians 4:18); Col. 3:2020Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. (Colossians 3:20); Heb. 13:2121Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Hebrews 13:21). It would be well if Christians would believe that, as to salvation, Christ has been accepted (Lev. 1:44And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him. (Leviticus 1:4)) for us, and that our pair now is not to seek to patch up His work, but to do our own, and see that we are practically “acceptable to the Lord.”