Paul writing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit makes sharp distinctions of negation and further clarification in his epistles. Observing the contrast shows key teachings helpful in understanding what God is and is not affirming.
List of 8 Example Verses
“Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:17
If you do not know what God’s will is (e.g., 1 Tim 2:3-4, Gal 1:4, Eph 1:5,9, 1 Thes 4:3, 5:18,) then you are unwise.
“But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:5
A sinner’s belief on Christ and his crosswork (Rom 4:24-25) is not a work they do.
“For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.”
If one is under grace (Rom 3:24-26, 5:1-2, Eph 2:8-9), then the believer is not under the law.
“For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.” Romans 8:18
Believers have received the Spirit of adoption (Eph 1:13-14, 1 Cor 3:16), not the spirit of bondage again to fear.
“For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.” 1 Corinthians 1:17
Paul’s sending and gospel given to him from Christ (Gal 1:11-12) did not include water baptism.
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” Titus 3:5
Christ’s gracious work saves believers, not their own works (Eph 2:8-9, Rom 4:4-5)
“For we walk by faith, not by sight:” 2 Corinthians 5:7
Signs and the seen (2 Cor 4:18, Rom 8:24) are not of the faith saints walk by from the word of God in this age (Rom 10:17, 16:25-27).
“And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:” Philippians 3:9
Those who have trusted the gospel have the righteousness of God by faith, not their own righteousness (Rom 3:21-26).
Application
These types of observations can be useful in seeing how God is operating or identifying changes due to progressive revelation. Paul’s special apostleship according to the dispensation of grace is further highlighted when comparing some of these examples with doctrine outside of Pauline revelation. These examples of negations contrasted next affirmations help us understand what is and is not being communicated from the scriptures.
Hope this article is helpful in your study of the scriptures!
