Journey of Soul Sanctification: A Partnership with God

Summary

### Summary

Good morning, saints. Today, we gathered to pray for Connect Church in Nashville, celebrating their 10 years of service. We then continued our sermon series on sanctification, building on Pastor Jono's foundation. Our focus today was on soul sanctification, a process that involves our will, mind, and emotions. The Apostle Paul, a church planter, faced many challenges, including persecution, but his concern was always for the spiritual well-being of the churches he planted, like the one in Thessalonica. Despite his worries, he found joy in their steadfast faith.

Sanctification is a partnership with God. It's not about instant transformation but a continuous process of growth. We must actively participate in this journey, drawing near to God as He draws near to us. This involves making sanctified choices, guided by wisdom from Scripture, particularly the Book of Proverbs. Our daily choices reflect our values, and aligning these with God's will is crucial for our spiritual growth.

The soul is the center of our will, mind, and emotions. Our will is our ability to choose, and it's a gift from God that requires wise stewardship. Our mind should be devoted to God, filled with His wisdom rather than worldly distractions. Emotions, too, are a gift but need to be controlled and informed by God's Word. The Book of Psalms is a great resource for emotional sanctification.

The purpose of sanctification is to make us holy, set apart for God's work. We are called to be the light of the world, reflecting Jesus in our actions and attitudes. This involves genuine care for others, standing up for the marginalized, and living out our faith in practical ways. Sanctification is an ongoing process, and even when we stumble, God's grace is there to lift us up.

### Key Takeaways

1. Sanctification as Partnership: Sanctification is a continuous process that requires our active participation. It's not about instant transformation but a journey of drawing near to God as He draws near to us. This partnership involves making daily choices that align with God's will, guided by wisdom from Scripture. [41:10]

2. The Role of Free Will: Our will is a gift from God, allowing us to choose our course of action. This gift requires wise stewardship, making choices that reflect our values and align with God's will. The Book of Proverbs offers wisdom for making sanctified choices, helping us to live a life that honors God. [48:29]

3. Mind Sanctification: Our mind should be devoted to God, filled with His wisdom rather than worldly distractions. Starting the day with Scripture rather than a smartphone can set the tone for a sanctified mind. Memorizing verses and seeking knowledge of the Holy One are practical steps to renew our minds. [56:04]

4. Emotional Sanctification: Emotions are a gift from God but need to be controlled and informed by His Word. The Book of Psalms is a valuable resource for emotional sanctification, offering prayers and expressions that can help us align our emotions with God's will. [59:14]

5. Purpose of Sanctification: The ultimate goal of sanctification is to make us holy, set apart for God's work. We are called to be the light of the world, reflecting Jesus in our actions and attitudes. This involves genuine care for others, standing up for the marginalized, and living out our faith in practical ways. [01:00:37]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[32:08] - Prayer for Connect Church
[33:27] - Introduction to Sanctification
[34:22] - Apostle Paul's Missionary Journey
[36:01] - Persecution and Faith
[38:22] - Paul's Concern for Thessalonica
[40:04] - Living to Please God
[41:10] - Partnership in Sanctification
[48:29] - The Role of Free Will
[56:04] - Mind Sanctification
[59:14] - Emotional Sanctification
[01:00:37] - Purpose of Sanctification
[01:03:09] - Being the Light of the World
[01:05:07] - Final Prayer
[01:06:12] - Invitation to Accept Jesus

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (NIV)
> "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it."

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
> "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Psalm 51:10 (NIV)
> "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

### Observation Questions
1. What does 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 say about the role of God in our sanctification process?
2. According to Proverbs 3:5-6, what are we instructed to do with our understanding and ways?
3. In Psalm 51:10, what does the psalmist ask God to create and renew within him?
4. How did the Apostle Paul express his concern for the church in Thessalonica, and what was his reaction upon hearing about their faith? ([39:15])

### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of sanctification as a partnership with God challenge or affirm your current understanding of spiritual growth? ([41:10])
2. What does it mean to steward our free will wisely according to the sermon, and how does Proverbs guide us in making sanctified choices? ([48:29])
3. How can starting the day with Scripture rather than a smartphone contribute to the sanctification of our minds? ([56:04])
4. Why is it important to align our emotions with God's Word, and how can the Book of Psalms assist in this process? ([59:14])

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily choices. Are there specific areas where you need to align your decisions more closely with God's will? What steps can you take this week to make more sanctified choices? ([49:10])
2. How can you actively participate in the process of sanctification in your life? Identify one practical way you can draw nearer to God this week. ([41:10])
3. What distractions are currently filling your mind? How can you prioritize starting your day with Scripture to set a sanctified tone for your mind? ([56:31])
4. Think about a recent emotional response you had. How could you have handled it differently by applying wisdom from the Book of Psalms? ([59:14])
5. In what ways can you be the light of the world in your community? Identify one specific action you can take this week to reflect Jesus in your actions and attitudes. ([01:02:11])
6. How can you show genuine care for others and stand up for the marginalized in your daily life? Share a situation where you can apply this principle. ([01:02:42])
7. Reflect on a time when you stumbled in your spiritual journey. How did you experience God's grace lifting you up, and how can you extend that grace to others? ([01:04:35])

Devotional

Day 1: Partnership in Sanctification
Sanctification is a continuous process that requires our active participation. It's not about instant transformation but a journey of drawing near to God as He draws near to us. This partnership involves making daily choices that align with God's will, guided by wisdom from Scripture. Sanctification is not a passive experience; it demands our engagement and commitment. As we make choices that reflect God's values, we grow spiritually and become more like Christ. This process is beautifully illustrated in the Book of Proverbs, which offers practical wisdom for living a life that honors God.

By actively participating in our sanctification, we acknowledge that it is a partnership with God. We must be intentional in our actions, seeking to align our will with His. This means making decisions that reflect our commitment to spiritual growth and holiness. As we draw near to God, He draws near to us, guiding us and empowering us to live out our faith in practical ways. [41:10]

James 4:8 (ESV): "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

Reflection: What is one specific choice you can make today that aligns with God's will and reflects your commitment to sanctification?

Day 2: The Role of Free Will
Our will is a gift from God, allowing us to choose our course of action. This gift requires wise stewardship, making choices that reflect our values and align with God's will. The Book of Proverbs offers wisdom for making sanctified choices, helping us to live a life that honors God. Free will is a powerful tool that can lead us closer to God or away from Him, depending on how we use it.

Stewarding our free will wisely means making decisions that honor God and reflect our commitment to spiritual growth. This involves seeking wisdom from Scripture and allowing it to guide our choices. By doing so, we align our actions with God's will and demonstrate our dedication to living a holy life. The Book of Proverbs is a valuable resource for understanding how to make sanctified choices that lead to a life that pleases God. [48:29]

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

Reflection: Think of a recent decision you made. How could you have applied wisdom from Scripture to make a more sanctified choice?

Day 3: Mind Sanctification
Our mind should be devoted to God, filled with His wisdom rather than worldly distractions. Starting the day with Scripture rather than a smartphone can set the tone for a sanctified mind. Memorizing verses and seeking knowledge of the Holy One are practical steps to renew our minds. A mind devoted to God is one that seeks His wisdom and guidance in all things, avoiding the distractions of the world.

Renewing our minds involves a conscious effort to focus on God's Word and allow it to shape our thoughts and actions. By starting the day with Scripture, we set a foundation for a sanctified mind that is attuned to God's will. Memorizing verses and seeking deeper knowledge of God helps us to stay focused on Him and avoid the distractions that can lead us astray. This practice is essential for spiritual growth and aligning our minds with God's purposes. [56:04]

Romans 12:2 (ESV): "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

Reflection: How can you incorporate Scripture into your daily routine to help renew your mind and focus on God's wisdom?

Day 4: Emotional Sanctification
Emotions are a gift from God but need to be controlled and informed by His Word. The Book of Psalms is a valuable resource for emotional sanctification, offering prayers and expressions that can help us align our emotions with God's will. Emotions, when guided by God's Word, can be powerful tools for spiritual growth and connection with Him.

Emotional sanctification involves recognizing that our emotions are a gift from God and should be used to glorify Him. By turning to the Book of Psalms, we find prayers and expressions that help us align our emotions with God's will. This practice allows us to control our emotions and use them in a way that honors God and supports our spiritual growth. By seeking God's guidance in our emotional life, we can experience a deeper connection with Him and a more balanced emotional state. [59:14]

Psalm 19:14 (ESV): "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."

Reflection: Reflect on a recent emotional experience. How can you use the Psalms to guide and sanctify your emotions in similar situations?

Day 5: Purpose of Sanctification
The ultimate goal of sanctification is to make us holy, set apart for God's work. We are called to be the light of the world, reflecting Jesus in our actions and attitudes. This involves genuine care for others, standing up for the marginalized, and living out our faith in practical ways. Sanctification is an ongoing process, and even when we stumble, God's grace is there to lift us up.

Being set apart for God's work means living a life that reflects His love and compassion. We are called to be the light of the world, demonstrating our faith through our actions and attitudes. This involves caring for others, advocating for the marginalized, and living out our faith in practical ways. Sanctification is a continuous journey, and God's grace is always available to help us when we fall short. By striving to live a holy life, we fulfill our purpose and bring glory to God. [01:00:37]

Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Reflection: What is one practical way you can reflect Jesus in your actions and attitudes today, especially towards those who are marginalized?

Quotes

1. "Christianity was It wasn't around Before Jesus There weren't a whole Lot of churches When the Apostle Paul Traveled around So here's what he would do He would enter a city He would start sharing It was raw evangelism Because there were No other Christians There was no core group To start a church with He would start Yes in local synagogues The Jewish synagogues To announce To the people To the Jews That Jesus Was the Messiah Some people Would accept Jesus Other people Not so much." [34:56] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Paul Isn't relieved That he escaped With his life In fact He's extremely Worried He's very Anxious About this church In Thessalonica Anxious Worried The Apostle Paul The one who said Be anxious For nothing That Paul And what's he Anxious for Is he anxious About his future Is he anxious About support No Because he's concerned About this baby Church In Thessalonica." [37:16] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "We instructed You how To live In order To please God As in Fact You are Living Now we Ask you And urge You in The Lord Jesus To do This more And more Keep growing Keep evolving It is God's Will that You should Be Sanctified Sanctified You've Made a Good start Keep growing Church You have A role To play In this Business Of being Made Holy." [40:04] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "God Helps Those Who Help Themselves Right Well That's That's Not Scripture But It's Not Scriptural It's About Partnership With Him The Bible Says Draw Near To God And He Will Do What Will Draw Near To You You Do It He Does It Jeremiah Says This You Will Seek Me And You Will Find Me When You Do What When You Search For Me With All Your Heart It's Teamwork And Guess What What A Team You're On." [41:04] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Sanctification Is This Teamwork It's An Ongoing Process It's Growth It's Your Skills Are Getting Better And At Times There May Be A Supernatural Deliverance But Often Deliverance Is A Process To Deliver From Your Old Way Of Life It's Not Instantaneous It's An Act Of Grace That We Lean In And He Cleans It Up And He Removes All The Evil Tendencies Evil Ectomy And You Wake Up In Your Recovery Room And All Is Good." [42:02] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "God Does Not Force Feed His Children God Gives Us The Ingredients For Our Daily Bread And He Expects Us To Do The Baking One Author Says So As We Keep Our Assigned Role To Partner With God In This Business Of Sanctification We Have Revisited The Key Text For Our Sermon Series Chapter 523 May God Himself The God Of Peace Sanctify You Through And Through May Your Whole Spirit Soul And Body Be Kept Blameless At The Coming Of Our Lord Jesus Christ The One Who Calls You Is Faithful And He Will Do It." [44:20] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "The Soul Is The Center Of One's Will It's The Center Of Our Mind And Intellect And It's The Center Of Our Emotions So Number One The Will What Is Your Will Well It's Your Ability To Choose A Course Of Direction That's A No-Brainer Or Not To Choose A Course Of Direction The Riskiest The Most Costly Gift Humans Receive From God Is Free Will Other Than Of Course Jesus How God Treasures This Gift Of Free Will That He's Given You Freedom Of Choice." [48:11] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Values Choose The Right Values Get Them In The Right Order Because As You Arrange Your Values Properly That Is Called Character Development That Is Called Growing Up In Jesus When I Graduated From Bible College Way Back My You My Fiance Then I Can't Remember In 76 Yeah I Guess So Did I Say 76 She Gave Me A Little Plaque And It Is Still Hanging In The Spare Room In Our Basement Right Now And It Is This One Life Will Soon Be Past Only What Is Done For Christ Will Last Only What Is Done For Christ Will Last." [53:25] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "The Soul Is The Center The Mind Or The Intellect So Trick Question Which Would You Rather Have Head Knowledge Or Heart Knowledge Well Don't Answer That Because It Is A Trick Question It Is A False Dichotomy The Issue Is Faith Without Works Is Dead Heart Knowledge Is Head Knowledge Put Into Action Heart Knowledge Starts With The Mind Devote That To The Lord In My Office I Have On Display I Do Not Feel Obliged To Believe That The Same God Has With Sense Reason And Intellect Has Intended Us To Forgo Their Use That Is Galileo." [55:09] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "The Book Of Psalms Is A Book Of Emotions There Is Rejoicing Is Venting There Is Joy There Is Weeping There Is Faith Filled Stuff There Is Stressed Out Anxiety There Is Joy And So Making Psalms Your Prayers Entering The Emotions Of Each One Will Do Wonders For Your Emotions Sanctification That Is All I Am Going To Say About That And So In Closing I Want To Circle Back To Sanctification I Want To Talk About Its Purpose And The Process." [01:00:01] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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