Transformative Grace: The Journey of Sanctification

 

Summary

In the Gospel of John, chapter 1, verse 16, we find a profound truth: "And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace." This encapsulates the essence of being a Christian—receiving the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. This grace is not a one-time event but a continuous flow, "grace upon grace," that transforms our lives. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, we are reminded that Christ is made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. These elements are not separate but are all found in Him, and they work together in the life of a believer.

Sanctification, a key aspect of this transformation, is the process by which we are renewed in the whole person after the image of God. It is not automatic, nor is it a sudden experience of perfection. Instead, it is a gradual process where we die to sin and live unto righteousness. This transformation is not merely moral teaching, which often leads to discouragement and despair, but a profound change brought about by the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in sanctification. He separates us from the world, regenerates us, and gives us a new disposition. This new life in Christ is not about changing our natural abilities or temperament but about redirecting them under a new control. The Spirit renews our minds, giving us a new outlook and understanding, enabling us to see and comprehend spiritual truths that were once foolishness to us.

This renewal affects our desires and will, leading to a life that reflects the righteousness and holiness of God. It is a continuous process, where we are being transformed into the image of Christ, empowered by the Spirit to live a life pleasing to God. This is the true essence of sanctification—a life lived in the fullness of Christ, under the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit.

Key Takeaways:

- Grace Upon Grace: Being a Christian means receiving the continuous flow of grace from Jesus Christ. This grace is transformative, not just a one-time event, but a constant renewal that shapes our lives into the image of Christ. [00:35]

- Sanctification Process: Sanctification is the process of being renewed in the whole person after the image of God. It is not automatic or instantaneous but a gradual transformation where we die to sin and live unto righteousness. [02:39]

- Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is central to sanctification. He separates us from the world, regenerates us, and gives us a new disposition. This new life is not about changing our natural abilities but redirecting them under a new control. [09:57]

- Renewed Mind: The Spirit renews our minds, giving us a new outlook and understanding. This enables us to see and comprehend spiritual truths that were once foolishness to us, leading to a life that reflects God's righteousness and holiness. [32:09]

- Continuous Transformation: Sanctification is a continuous process, where we are being transformed into the image of Christ. Empowered by the Spirit, we live a life pleasing to God, reflecting His righteousness and holiness. [41:37]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:10] - Introduction to Grace
- [00:35] - Receiving Grace Upon Grace
- [00:54] - Fullness in Christ
- [01:17] - Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, Redemption
- [02:10] - Unity of Justification and Sanctification
- [02:39] - Meaning of Sanctification
- [03:30] - Being in Christ
- [04:33] - Dead to Sin and Law
- [05:07] - Discouragement Under Sin and Law
- [06:26] - Failure of Moral Teaching
- [07:56] - Deliverance from Discouragement
- [09:05] - Role of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification
- [12:06] - Separation by the Spirit
- [17:51] - Regeneration and New Birth
- [23:38] - New Disposition and Life
- [31:31] - New Principle of Life
- [40:21] - Renewed Mind and Understanding
- [41:37] - Continuous Transformation in Christ

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. John 1:16 - "And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace."
2. 1 Corinthians 1:30 - "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption."

---

Observation Questions:

1. According to John 1:16, what does it mean to receive "grace upon grace"? How does this concept relate to the continuous nature of grace in a Christian's life? [00:35]

2. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, what are the four things that Christ is made unto us? How do these elements work together in the life of a believer? [01:17]

3. How does the sermon describe the process of sanctification? What are the key aspects that differentiate it from a sudden experience of perfection? [02:39]

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the process of sanctification according to the sermon? [09:57]

---

Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the continuous flow of grace, as described in John 1:16, impact a believer's daily life and spiritual growth? [00:35]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that sanctification is a gradual process rather than an instantaneous change? How does this understanding affect a believer's expectations of their spiritual journey? [02:39]

3. The sermon emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification. How does this perspective influence the way believers view their relationship with the Holy Spirit? [09:57]

4. How does the renewal of the mind, as mentioned in the sermon, change a believer's understanding and perception of spiritual truths? [32:09]

---

Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a recent experience where you felt the continuous flow of grace in your life. How did it transform your perspective or actions? [00:35]

2. Sanctification is described as a gradual process. What are some practical steps you can take to actively participate in this process in your daily life? [02:39]

3. The Holy Spirit is central to our sanctification. How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit to aid in your spiritual growth? [09:57]

4. Consider a time when your mind was renewed, leading to a new understanding of a spiritual truth. How did this change affect your actions or decisions? [32:09]

5. Identify an area in your life where you struggle to live unto righteousness. What specific actions can you take to align this area with the image of Christ? [02:39]

6. How can you redirect your natural abilities and temperament under the control of the Holy Spirit to better reflect God's righteousness and holiness? [09:57]

7. Think of a situation where you were able to see spiritual truths that were once foolishness to you. How can you share this new understanding with others in your community? [32:09]

Devotional

Day 1: Continuous Flow of Grace
The Christian life is characterized by a continuous flow of grace from Jesus Christ. This grace is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that transforms believers into the image of Christ. As we receive "grace upon grace," our lives are continually renewed and shaped by His presence. This transformative grace empowers us to live in a way that reflects Christ's love and righteousness. It is a dynamic and active force that works within us, enabling us to grow in our faith and deepen our relationship with God. [00:35]

Ephesians 1:7-8 (ESV): "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight."

Reflection: How can you open your heart today to receive the continuous flow of grace that Jesus offers, and how might this grace transform a specific area of your life?


Day 2: Gradual Transformation through Sanctification
Sanctification is the process by which believers are renewed in their whole person after the image of God. It is not an automatic or instantaneous change but a gradual transformation where we die to sin and live unto righteousness. This process involves a deep and ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to overcome sin and grow in holiness. As we participate in this journey, we are called to actively pursue righteousness and align our lives with God's will. Sanctification is a lifelong journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to be molded by God's hands. [02:39]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "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: What is one specific area of your life where you sense God is calling you to grow in holiness, and what steps can you take today to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in this process?


Day 3: The Holy Spirit's Role in Our Renewal
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the sanctification process by separating us from the world and regenerating us with a new disposition. This new life in Christ is not about changing our natural abilities but redirecting them under a new control. The Spirit renews our minds, giving us a new outlook and understanding, enabling us to see and comprehend spiritual truths that were once foolishness to us. This renewal affects our desires and will, leading to a life that reflects the righteousness and holiness of God. [09:57]

Titus 3:5-6 (ESV): "He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior."

Reflection: In what ways can you invite the Holy Spirit to guide and direct your thoughts and actions today, allowing Him to renew your mind and transform your perspective?


Day 4: Renewed Mind and Spiritual Understanding
The renewal of our minds is a vital aspect of the sanctification process. The Holy Spirit gives us a new outlook and understanding, enabling us to see and comprehend spiritual truths that were once foolishness to us. This transformation of our minds leads to a life that reflects God's righteousness and holiness. As we grow in our understanding of God's Word and His ways, we are empowered to live in a manner that pleases Him. This renewed mind allows us to discern God's will and make choices that align with His purposes. [32:09]

Colossians 3:10 (ESV): "And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator."

Reflection: How can you intentionally seek to renew your mind today through prayer, study of Scripture, or other spiritual practices, and how might this renewal impact your daily decisions and interactions?


Day 5: Continuous Transformation into Christ's Image
Sanctification is a continuous process where believers are being transformed into the image of Christ. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are called to live a life pleasing to God, reflecting His righteousness and holiness. This transformation is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey that requires our active participation and cooperation with the Spirit's work in our lives. As we grow in our relationship with Christ, we become more like Him, embodying His love, grace, and truth in our daily lives. [41:37]

2 Peter 1:3-4 (ESV): "His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire."

Reflection: What is one specific way you can actively participate in your transformation into Christ's image today, and how can you rely on the Holy Spirit's power to help you in this journey?

Quotes


Sanctification is the process if you like the working of God's free grace whereby we are renewed in the whole men after the image of God and are enabled more and more to die in the sin and live unto righteousness now that is the meaning of sanctification and we've seen that it's not something automatic neither is it something that is all in Christ and not at all in us. [00:02:34]

It means that we are in Christ it means that we are under grace not under law not under self that's the great overarching wonderful truth about the Christian that his whole position is changed and is absolutely new we are a live event of God for the first time before we were dead in trespasses and sins now that's the way the New Testament always puts it. [00:03:28]

The Holy Spirit is central to sanctification. He separates us from the world, regenerates us, and gives us a new disposition. This new life is not about changing our natural abilities but redirecting them under a new control. The Spirit renews our minds, giving us a new outlook and understanding, enabling us to see and comprehend spiritual truths that were once foolishness to us. [00:09:57]

His first work is of course the work of separation he separates us now look at it like this here is a man born into this world like everybody else and we're all born with that all the chemical in us and we're all born as children of Adam and we are born therefore as victims of sin and Satan of the world the flesh and these are the dominating forces and factors in our life. [00:12:23]

A Christian is a man who is born again how these great primary central fundamental truths can be forgotten you see a Christian is not a man who has been forgiven early there is no such thing a man is not a Christian unless he is born again that's the fundamental proposition sin vital something has happened to him so that he is no longer the men that he was. [00:18:05]

A man who is born again is a man who's got a new disposition he's got a new principle of life here that's what it really means now I'd like to think of it in this way because it's possible to burst a in many senses with regard to this doctor now I'm saying that he's got a new disposition a new principle of life operating in him and indeed controlling. [00:23:38]

The thing that controls all these powers and faculties has become new that's the devotee that's what I mean by a disposition the disposition is that which guides and governs and controls and directs all the faculties and powers and propensity and that's the thing that is changing so that you see it works out like this and then who before his conversion was lively and mercurial and active and aggressive. [00:25:27]

The Christian is a men who now finds that he understands things which meant nothing to him before I mean by that that's what I meant by saying he got a new era he got a new understanding it isn't that he's got new faculties but he's got a new disposition he's been lifted into a realm where he sees what he couldn't see and understand what he thought was foolishness and rubbish and nonsense. [00:37:15]

The great beginning of sanctification is the separation the regeneration the new creature created after God all the SPO put it in Ephesians 2:10 we are his workmanship created anew in Christ Jesus unto good works before appointed that we should walk in them here then is this wonderful process in which we are renewed in the whole men after the image of God and are enabled more and more to die in the sin and to live and to righteousness. [00:41:19]

Be very careful my dear friend that in accepting some easy shortcut to sanctification in one experience you are not denying the glorious doctrine of regeneration and the new death if you say that a man can be justified without being sanctified you are really saying that you don't believe in regeneration I mean is not a Christian at all and lessen the accept he is born again born of the Spirit born of God born from above the new men Eden Christ. [00:42:48]

And now when to him who is able to keep us from falling and to present us faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy to the only wise God Our Saviour be glory and Majesty Dominion and power both now and ever oh we do hope that you've been helped by the preaching of dr. Martin lloyd-jones all of the sermons contained within the MLJ trust audio library are now available for free download. [00:45:07]

You may share the sermons or broadcast them however because of international copyright please be advised that we are asking first that these sermons never be offered for sale by a third party and second that these sermons will not be edited in any way for length or to use as audio clips you can find our contact information on our website at MLJ trust org that's mlj TR u st dot o-r-g. [00:45:39]

Chatbot

  • I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from May 25, 2017. Do you have any questions about it?

Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?