[SDG]

Originally Posted by Sabellius

Hmmmm...

This is the passage that Bernard feels is the strongest statement linking justification with the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:11). There are three phrases in 1 Corinthians 6:11, they are given special emphasis in the Greek by the repetition of "but" (KJV). However, to repeat this word three times would be awkard in our English idiom. These three clauses refer to different aspects, rather than successive stages, of what God has done for believers. A translation such as "you were purified, then dedicated, then put right with God" would be wrong. Paul is talking about some happenings in the overall picture of the Holy Spirit working in our lives. This is the Spirit of God doing these things generally, not that the declaration of Justificaton ONLY happens at the Spirit baptism.

Also, the normal understanding of remission of sins is to be connected in Acts 2:38 with repentance and baptism. Are we really ready to say that we are not "washing" until we are baptized by the Holy Spirit? This is the logical conclusion if we say that justification does not occur until we are Holy Spirit baptized.

Interesting ... I will post at the justification thread also.