The Nature, Power, Deceit, and Prevalency of Indwelling Sin

Secondly, As to the Principle of it, namely, that it be done in faith, and therein by an actual derivation of strength from Christ, (John 15. 5.) without whom we can do nothing. It is not enough that the Person be a Believer, though that be necessary unto every good work, Ephes. 2. 10. But also that faith be peculiarly acted in every duty that we do. For our whole obedience is the obedience of faith, Rom. 1. 5. that is, which the Doctrine of faith requireth, and which the grace of faith beareth or bringeth forth. So Christ is expressly said to be our life, Col. 3. 4. Our spiritual life, that is the Spring, Author, and Cause of it. Now as in life natural, no vital act can be performed, but by the actual operation of the principle of life it self; So in life spiritual, no spiritually vital act, that is, no duty acceptable to God, can be performed but by the actual working of Christ, who is our life. And this is no other way derived unto us but by faith. Whence saith the Apostle, Gal. 2. 20. Christ liveth in me, and the life which I now lead in the flesh, is by the faith of the Son of God. ⟨p. 142⟩Not only was Christ his life, a living principle unto him, but he led a life, that is, discharged vital actions in all duties of holiness and obedience, by the faith of the Son of God, or in him; deriving supplies of Grace and strength from him thereby. This therefore ought a Believer diligently to attend unto, namely, that every thing he doth to God, be done in the strength of Christ; which wherein it consisteth ought diligently to be enquired into by all who intend to walk with God.

Secondly, As to the Principle of it, namely, that it be done in faith, and therein by an actual derivation of strength from Christ, (John 15. 5.) without whom we can do nothing. It is not enough that the Person be a Believer, though that be necessary unto every good work,