The Evidences of Being Children of God
By John Vinall
Brighton, 15th June 1856
“Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love,
as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering
and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
This is a very sweet and blessed Epistle, as also is that to the Philippians. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God” (2 Tim. 3:16). And I truly believe that Paul’s Epistles were indited by God’s Spirit. It is necessary for us to see whether this Epistle is directed to us. Paul addresses one Epistle “to all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints” (Rom. 1:7). That is the direction. This Epistle is addressed “to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus.” If I cannot ascertain that it is written to me, I should be stealing it. The world at large has nothing to do with these Epistles. “Christ hath loved us.” None but the children of God can come in here. I want to know whether I am one of these “us.” We have been increasing in our church lately, and some are about to join us this evening, and may have fears as to their being right in doing so. For their sakes I will speak of the evidences of being children. There are four classes – babes – children – young men and fathers. God must add to the church such as should be saved.
How many of you know that you are the children of God? I believe that those who are tender and walk in God’s fear, being afraid lest they be doing wrong in coming, are children. The Word of God is addressed to the trembling sinner. Paul speaks of the children in Ephesians, chapter 1:3-5, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ….
