Thursday, January 22, 2026

I argue that the enjoyment or pleasure experienced within the mind is the result of a deep and fundamental change—a kind of renewal—that transforms the soul so that it is no longer in opposition to God. Instead of being at enmity or conflict with Him, the soul is now pleased and delighted by thoughts of His divine nature. This, I believe, is what is meant when we speak of receiving the divine nature—the mind, once renewed by the Holy Spirit, becomes receptive and open to divine truths. Therefore, we can only truly recognize these spiritual feelings and affections when they serve two important roles: first, as the cause of the soul’s choice or desire, and second, as the outward expression of that choice. Furthermore, the object of this choice must be genuinely spiritual—something that pertains to God and divine things. The Scriptures describe such experiences as spiritual affections, emphasizing that these are heartfelt inclinations toward God. Technically speaking, love manifests itself through actions, but it must originate from a true spiritual affection—a sincere and heartfelt disposition that results from divine work within the soul. I find myself in disagreement with some of my fellow Reformed believers regarding the nature of these affections. We recently discussed respectfully the proper place of spiritual affections in the life of a believer. I maintain that the mind—especially the intellect—does not simply act as a passive receiver of facts, but is naturally pleased by genuine knowledge of divine truth. It cannot be merely a neutral vessel; instead, desire and pleasure emerge naturally from the exercise of faith. Faith, in this context, is not the substance itself but functions as an active means—an instrument—through which the soul’s desires are awakened and directed toward their ultimate object of joy and satisfaction. Therefore, we might say that the very foundation of true faith is rooted in the joy and pleasure that the mind finds in its object—pleasure that is stirred by desire. In this way, the act of believing is deeply connected to the delight and affection that arise within the soul when it perceives and embraces divine truth.

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