Sanctification Through Scripture: A Journey of Growth
Summary
In our journey of spiritual growth, the role of Scripture is foundational. Jesus Christ, in His high priestly prayer, made a profound statement: "I sanctify Myself" (John 17:19). This declaration underscores His continuous separation from sin and His perfect obedience to God's will. As believers, we are called to follow this example, being sanctified in truth, which is the Word of God. The truth of Scripture is the bedrock of our sanctification, guiding us to know and obey God's will.
Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus emphasizes His commitment to doing the Father's will, illustrating perfect sanctification. This obedience is not just about avoiding sin but actively pursuing God's glory. As we delve into the Scriptures, we find that sanctification is a process of knowing and obeying the truth. The Apostle John, in his epistles, reiterates the importance of walking in truth, as it is the path to spiritual maturity.
Spiritual growth can be seen in three stages: children, young men, and fathers. Children are characterized by their basic understanding and dependence on God. Young men are strong in the Word, having overcome the evil one through sound doctrine. Fathers, the most mature, are those who have moved beyond theology to a deep, personal communion with God. This progression highlights the necessity of Scripture in moving from spiritual infancy to maturity.
The truth of Scripture is not just for knowledge but for transformation. It shapes our convictions and affections, leading us to a life of obedience and worship. As we immerse ourselves in the Word, we develop a deep love for God's truth, which becomes our guiding principle. This affection for Scripture is akin to a baby's longing for milk, essential for growth and sustenance.
In conclusion, the sanctifying power of Scripture is unparalleled. It is the truth that saves, sanctifies, and equips us for every good work. As we commit to knowing and living out God's Word, we are transformed into the image of Christ, empowered by the Spirit of truth.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Foundation of Sanctification: Jesus' statement, "I sanctify Myself," highlights the continuous process of sanctification through perfect obedience to God's will. As believers, we are called to be sanctified in truth, which is the Word of God. This truth is the foundation of our spiritual growth and maturity. [01:12]
2. Stages of Spiritual Growth: Spiritual growth is marked by three stages: children, young men, and fathers. Each stage represents a deeper understanding and application of Scripture, moving from basic knowledge to a profound communion with God. This progression underscores the necessity of Scripture in our spiritual journey. [20:11]
3. The Power of Truth: The truth of Scripture is transformative, shaping our convictions and guiding our actions. It is the truth that enables us to overcome deception and falsehood, leading us to a life of obedience and worship. This truth is critical for our sanctification and spiritual maturity. [18:18]
4. Affection for the Word: A deep love for Scripture is essential for spiritual growth. This affection is akin to a baby's longing for milk, highlighting the necessity of the Word for our sustenance and growth. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, it becomes our guiding principle and source of joy. [51:11]
5. The Role of the Holy Spirit: Sanctification is a divine work accomplished through the Word by the Spirit of truth. We are reminded of our dependence on the Holy Spirit to mold and shape us into the image of Christ. This divine partnership is essential for our spiritual transformation and growth. [54:35]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:26] - The Role of Scripture in Spiritual Growth
- [01:12] - Jesus' Self-Sanctification
- [02:04] - Sanctification in Truth
- [03:04] - The Key to Sanctification
- [04:09] - Jesus' Perfect Obedience
- [05:35] - Seeking God's Glory
- [06:13] - The Power of Scripture in Temptation
- [07:04] - Understanding Sanctification
- [08:40] - The Role of Truth in Spiritual Growth
- [10:54] - Walking in Truth
- [13:04] - The Danger of False Teaching
- [14:32] - Joy in Spiritual Growth
- [16:04] - Contending for the Faith
- [18:18] - The Transformative Power of Truth
- [20:11] - Stages of Spiritual Growth
- [23:29] - The Challenge of Spiritual Infancy
- [24:56] - Strength in the Word
- [27:31] - Overcoming Deception
- [31:25] - The Longing for Communion with God
- [37:50] - Responding to the Word
- [41:17] - The Importance of Knowledge
- [45:19] - Developing Conviction
- [51:11] - Affection for the Word
- [54:35] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. John 17:17-19
2. 1 John 2:12-14
3. Hebrews 7:26
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Observation Questions:
1. In John 17:19, Jesus says, "I sanctify Myself." What does this statement reveal about His relationship with sin and obedience to God's will? [01:12]
2. According to 1 John 2:12-14, what are the three stages of spiritual growth mentioned, and how are they characterized?
3. How does Hebrews 7:26 describe Jesus' nature, and how does this relate to His ability to sanctify Himself?
4. In the sermon, what role does the truth of Scripture play in the process of sanctification? [07:55]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Jesus' continuous self-sanctification serve as a model for believers in their spiritual journey? [02:04]
2. What does the progression from children to young men to fathers in 1 John 2:12-14 suggest about the role of Scripture in spiritual maturity?
3. How does the sermon explain the transformative power of truth in overcoming deception and falsehood? [18:18]
4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that a deep affection for Scripture is similar to a baby's longing for milk? [51:11]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current stage of spiritual growth. Are you more like a child, a young man, or a father in your faith journey? What steps can you take to move to the next stage? [20:11]
2. How can you incorporate more Scripture into your daily routine to strengthen your spiritual growth and sanctification? [08:40]
3. Identify a specific area in your life where you struggle with obedience to God's will. How can the truth of Scripture guide you in overcoming this challenge? [06:13]
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of developing convictions based on Scripture. What is one conviction you hold that is rooted in the Bible, and how does it influence your daily decisions? [46:01]
5. Consider a time when you felt distant from God. How might immersing yourself in Scripture help restore your communion with Him? [31:25]
6. The sermon mentions the role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification. How can you be more open to the Spirit's guidance in your life? [54:35]
7. Think of a person in your life who might benefit from a deeper understanding of Scripture. How can you encourage them in their spiritual journey this week? [14:32]
Devotional
Day 1: The Foundation of Sanctification
Jesus' declaration, "I sanctify Myself," reveals His unwavering commitment to perfect obedience to God's will, setting a profound example for believers. This statement emphasizes the continuous process of sanctification, which is rooted in the truth of God's Word. As followers of Christ, we are called to be sanctified in truth, allowing Scripture to be the foundation of our spiritual growth and maturity. The truth of Scripture guides us in knowing and obeying God's will, leading us to a life that reflects Christ's holiness and dedication. [01:12]
John 17:17-19 (ESV): "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth."
Reflection: In what specific area of your life do you need to align more closely with God's truth today? How can you actively pursue sanctification in this area?
Day 2: Stages of Spiritual Growth
Spiritual growth is a journey marked by distinct stages: children, young men, and fathers. Each stage represents a deeper understanding and application of Scripture, moving from basic knowledge to profound communion with God. Children are characterized by their dependence on God, young men by their strength in the Word and victory over evil, and fathers by their deep, personal relationship with God. This progression underscores the necessity of Scripture in our spiritual journey, as it equips us to mature in faith and understanding. [20:11]
1 John 2:12-14 (ESV): "I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name's sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one."
Reflection: Identify which stage of spiritual growth you currently find yourself in. What steps can you take to move to the next stage in your spiritual journey?
Day 3: The Power of Truth
The truth of Scripture is transformative, shaping our convictions and guiding our actions. It is the truth that enables us to overcome deception and falsehood, leading us to a life of obedience and worship. This truth is critical for our sanctification and spiritual maturity, as it empowers us to live in alignment with God's will. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we allow its transformative power to renew our minds and hearts, equipping us for every good work. [18:18]
Ephesians 4:21-24 (ESV): "Assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Reflection: What falsehoods or deceptions have you been holding onto that need to be replaced with the truth of Scripture? How can you begin this transformation today?
Day 4: Affection for the Word
A deep love for Scripture is essential for spiritual growth. This affection is akin to a baby's longing for milk, highlighting the necessity of the Word for our sustenance and growth. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, it becomes our guiding principle and source of joy. This love for God's Word shapes our convictions and affections, leading us to a life of obedience and worship. By developing a deep affection for Scripture, we allow it to transform our lives and draw us closer to God. [51:11]
1 Peter 2:2-3 (ESV): "Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good."
Reflection: How can you cultivate a deeper affection for God's Word in your daily life? What practical steps can you take to immerse yourself more fully in Scripture?
Day 5: The Role of the Holy Spirit
Sanctification is a divine work accomplished through the Word by the Spirit of truth. We are reminded of our dependence on the Holy Spirit to mold and shape us into the image of Christ. This divine partnership is essential for our spiritual transformation and growth, as the Holy Spirit empowers us to live in obedience to God's will. By relying on the Spirit, we are equipped to overcome sin and grow in holiness, reflecting the character of Christ in our lives. [54:35]
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (ESV): "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
Reflection: In what ways can you invite the Holy Spirit to work more powerfully in your life today? How can you become more attuned to His guidance and leading?
Quotes
"I sanctify Myself," John 17:19. That is a stunning statement from a human perspective, made not to man, but to God. Made to His holy, omniscient Father, without a hint of hesitation. Now, we all know that to be sanctified is to be separated from sin. Scripture says of Him that He was holy, He was innocent, and He was undefiled and separate from sinners, Hebrews 7:26. [00:01:12]
We are sanctified in the truth, and He Himself sanctifies Himself that we may be also sanctified in truth, indicating by the 'also' that He also sanctified Himself in the truth. And right there, you have the key to sanctification. It is to know and obey the truth, the revealed will and Word of God. [00:03:04]
What is sanctification? Perfect sanctification is flawless obedience from the heart to the will of God, known and understood perfectly. That's perfect sanctification. And our Lord's own personal testimony to His sanctification was part of a prayer that embraced all of us in which He said, "Father, sanctify them by Thy truth; Thy word is truth." [00:07:04]
The apostle John, who wrote these texts under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, understood well the role the truth plays in sanctification. And we learn that from his epistles. Let's turn to the second and third epistles of John, postcard epistles, about three hundred words each. Could have been written on one sheet of papyrus. [00:09:04]
Five times in that salutation, the word aletheia (truth) appears. Five times! He knew that sanctification was by the truth, and he wanted people walking in the truth, and he rejoiced when they did, because that's the path of progressive spiritual growth. [00:10:54]
Listen, your spiritual growth yields an ever-increasing weight of glory, which can be forfeited if you are distracted from the truth into deception, into lies. It doesn't just have an effect upon you here and now. It doesn't just harm your spiritual development here, therefore your usefulness and joy. [00:13:04]
The priority is the truth. It is the truth that saves. It is the truth that sanctifies. It is the truth that make you wise unto salvation and the truth that makes you perfect, thoroughly equipped for all good works. Sanctification is the work of the truth. The truth is critical. [00:16:04]
There is no sanctifying power in human intuition. There is no sanctifying power in insight. There is no sanctifying power in experience. It is all in the Scripture. Only the truth of God revealed in Scripture sanctifies. Sound teaching accurately interpreted, understood, and applied. An as you embrace the truth, you progress spiritually. [00:18:18]
There are stages of spiritual growth here. Now, we know there are at least two stages of spiritual growth. In the words of Jesus in John 21 when He said to Peter, "Feed My sheep and feed My lambs." But here you have three categories of spiritual development. [00:20:11]
What is the difference between a spiritual babe and a spiritual young man? It is strength. And wherein is that strength born? It is born of the knowledge of the Word of God. The word here for 'young men' is the word for 'youth' -- 'strong,' 'mature.' And they are characterized in verse 14 as having the Word of God abide in them. [00:24:56]
You know, I just grieve for the evangelical church in our country, people who are left in infancy, cheated out of the richness of doctrine, living life by principle. Cheated even more out of the depth of an intimate sense of God's personal love and involvement in your life, as all that is true about Him unfolds before you. [00:37:50]
Spiritual growth comes when you have the affection for the Word. What does it mean "as babes desire the pure milk of the Word?" He's not talking about being a spiritual babe there, and he's not contrasting milk and meat like 1 Corinthians 3. He's simply saying this, "In the same way that a baby longs for milk, you should long for the Word." [00:51:11]
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