Righteousness is given to us when we place our faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. But membership in the firstfruits, in the ranks of those who receive the life and authority promised to the victorious saints, cannot be given to us by our merely making a profession of faith. If it could, then the second and third chapters of the Book of Revelation would make no sense; for these two chapters do not base their praises and rebukes on belief in doctrine but on works that come from true faith and obedience.

To every one of the churches Christ states: "I know thy works."

Membership in Christ begins with the grace of forgiveness and imputed (ascribed) righteousness. Membership in Christ is maintained as we bring forth in our lives the fruit of the Spirit. Those who do not bring forth the fruit of the Spirit after a period of time are cut out of the Vine (John 15:2,6).

When we read of the Lord's attitude toward the Christian churches (Revelation, Chapters Two and Three) we realize the churches on earth are far from being the "undefiled one" whom the Lord is seeking. We find the Lord addressing the victorious saints one at a time, calling His firstfruits out from the Christian churches.

As we understand the Scriptures, it may not be true that all believers who do not overcome will be thrown into the Lake of Fire. But it does mean, certainly, that only those who overcome will be drawn to that place in Christ's heart reserved for His "choice one" (Song of Solomon 6:9; Revelation 14:1).

There are at least four areas of discipleship that should be considered in connection with our securing our place in the Bride of the Lamb: (1) preparation; (2) patience in affliction; (3) service; and (4) union.

Preparation. The Christian discipleship is not intended to be a passive "wait until I die and go to Heaven" way of life. Each day of our pilgrimage contains opportunities for making ourselves ready to live in perfect union with the Lord Jesus.

Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. (Revelation 19:7)

The Lamb's wife must make herself ready!

Through the grace of the Lord Jesus we can:

Pray without ceasing.

Confess our sins as the need arises.

Meditate in the Word of God day and night.

Seek the Lord for an area of service.

Keep our heart free from all bitterness and unforgiveness.

Listen carefully for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Keep our heart and mind and speech filled with what is holy and constructive.

Redeem the time, remembering always who we are and for whose sake we are being formed.

Strive to do what Christ and His Apostles taught.

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. (Romans 6:17)

To be continued.