Spiritual Warfare Within

By: Elihu Carranza

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

This book is the product of a thought-experiment. A thought-experiment is in some ways similar to an hypothesis or a supposition: a proposition or principle which is supposed or taken for granted in order to draw a conclusion or inference from the point in question. It may consist of a single proposition or a set propositions setting forth the parameters for investigation. This investigation examines what the Apostle Paul described as a warring between the "law in my members" and the "law of my mind." This project addresses this ever present inner conflict or tension within the believer. What are the projects parameters? First, the project limits itself to the conflict described by Paul: conflict between the law of the flesh and the law of the spirit. This conflict expresses itself as a tension from which Paul cries out: 'Who shall deliver me from this body of death?' Second, sanctification is not treated as a man made "works sanctification." Third, the project limits itself to what can be known, the revealed truths of Scripture. Fourth, the project aims to discover that role which the regenerated believer exercises. What does man contribute to sanctification, if anything? Fifth, the life of sanctification is not a fiction; it is a reality of Christian life that occurs in the here and now. The significance and meaning of a believer's sanctification may be viewed through the lens of logic. If something or other is the case, then what must follow logically? What is the biblical template for living in the tension of two laws: the Law of Sin and the Law of Grace? The Scripture makes plain three phases of the process of sanctification. These are declared by Jesus Christ Himself. self-denial; bearing a cross; and following Jesus Christ. (Luke 9:23) In other words, what logical implications, supported by Scripture, flow from a study of the work of progressive sanctification by the Spirit in the believer's life? The goal is a model of the Christian's life of sanctification, a life regulated by two laws or principles, the law of sin and the law of grace. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." This truth governs this investigation.