Understanding Salvation: Justification, Sanctification, and Glorification
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound theological concept of soteriology, which is the study of salvation. We delved into the three stages of salvation: justification, sanctification, and glorification. Justification is a legal action where Jesus, acting as our advocate, pays for our sins, making us righteous before God. Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Jesus through the work of the Holy Spirit. Glorification is the final stage, where we are fully united with Christ in heaven.
We also examined the story of the prodigal son to illustrate these stages. The father’s acceptance of the son symbolizes justification, while the son's learning to live in his father's house represents sanctification. Glorification is depicted as the ultimate reunion with the father.
The table, a recurring symbol in Scripture, was highlighted as a place of honor, unity, and transformation. In the Old Testament, being invited to someone's table was a significant honor, and Jesus flipped this cultural norm by inviting sinners and outcasts to His table. This act symbolizes the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.
We also discussed the importance of personal spiritual growth. Just as David couldn't wear Saul's armor, we must each have our own personal relationship with God. We can't rely solely on the spiritual experiences of others; we must seek our own encounters with God.
Finally, we touched on the concept of "church hurt" and the importance of understanding that the church is also in the process of sanctification. Despite its imperfections, the church is a place where we are needed and where we can grow together in Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. Justification: A Legal Transformation
- Justification is a legal action where Jesus, our advocate, pays for our sins, making us righteous before God. This transformation is immediate and complete, changing our status from sinner to saint. It’s a profound reminder that our salvation is not earned but given freely through Christ’s sacrifice. [03:24]
2. Sanctification: The Ongoing Journey
- Sanctification is the lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus. It begins the moment we accept Christ and continues through the work of the Holy Spirit. This journey involves daily choices and actions that align us more closely with Christ’s character, emphasizing the importance of personal spiritual growth. [05:14]
3. Glorification: The Final Union
- Glorification is the ultimate stage of salvation, where we are fully united with Christ in heaven. It represents the completion of our salvation journey, where we experience the fullness of God’s glory and presence. This future hope encourages us to persevere in our faith and sanctification. [07:57]
4. The Table: A Symbol of Unity and Transformation
- The table in Scripture symbolizes honor, unity, and transformation. Jesus’ act of inviting sinners to His table flips cultural norms and illustrates the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom. It’s a place where we learn, grow, and experience God’s grace together as a community. [11:21]
5. Personal Spiritual Growth: Eating Your Own Meal
- Just as David couldn’t wear Saul’s armor, we must each have our own personal relationship with God. We can’t rely solely on the spiritual experiences of others; we must seek our own encounters with God. This personal growth is essential for deepening our faith and experiencing the fullness of God’s presence. [20:49]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:56] - Introduction and Purpose
[01:49] - Soteriology: The Study of Salvation
[02:36] - Justification Explained
[04:14] - Sanctification: Becoming More Like Jesus
[05:53] - Personal Testimony: The Power of the Holy Spirit
[07:28] - Glorification: The Final Stage
[08:23] - The Prodigal Son: A Story of Redemption
[10:16] - The Symbolism of the Table
[11:40] - The Triclinium: A Picture of Paradise
[13:22] - Abraham’s Bosom: A Cultural Insight
[14:54] - The Table as a Place of Unity
[17:17] - The Corinthian Church: Lessons in Love
[19:13] - The Importance of Personal Spiritual Growth
[22:19] - Church Hurt and Sanctification
[23:27] - The Tabernacle: A Place of God’s Presence
[24:49] - Jesus: The Final Sacrifice
[26:04] - Understanding the Cost of Our Justification
[28:11] - Communion: Feasting on the Lord
[29:27] - The Power of Reminding the Enemy
[30:36] - Jesus’ Desire for Our Presence
[31:59] - The Cost of Our Salvation
[32:48] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Titus 3:5 - "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."
2. Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son
3. Revelation 19:9 - "And the angel said to me, 'Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.' And he said to me, 'These are the true words of God.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the three stages of salvation mentioned in the sermon, and how are they defined? ([01:49])
2. How does the story of the prodigal son illustrate the stages of justification, sanctification, and glorification? ([08:23])
3. What cultural significance did the table hold in the Old Testament, and how did Jesus redefine this symbol? ([10:37])
4. According to the sermon, what is the importance of having a personal relationship with God, as illustrated by David and Saul's armor? ([20:24])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of justification as a legal action change our understanding of salvation? ([03:24])
2. In what ways does the process of sanctification require daily choices and actions? How does the Holy Spirit assist in this process? ([05:14])
3. What does the table symbolize in the context of Jesus' ministry, and how does it reflect the inclusive nature of God's kingdom? ([11:21])
4. How can understanding the cost of our justification deepen our commitment to personal sanctification? ([26:04])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own journey of sanctification. What daily choices can you make to align more closely with Christ’s character? ([05:14])
2. How can you create a welcoming and inclusive environment in your own life, similar to how Jesus invited sinners to His table? ([11:21])
3. Think about a time when you relied on someone else's spiritual experiences rather than seeking your own. How can you cultivate a more personal relationship with God this week? ([20:49])
4. Have you ever experienced "church hurt"? How can understanding that the church is also in the process of sanctification help you heal and grow? ([22:19])
5. What specific steps can you take to remind yourself of the cost of your justification and let it motivate your spiritual growth? ([26:04])
6. How can you actively participate in helping others learn their "table manners" in the faith community, as described in the sermon? ([16:24])
7. Identify one person in your life who might feel like an outcast. How can you extend an invitation to them, symbolically or literally, to join you at your "table"? ([11:21])
Devotional
Day 1: Justification: A Legal Transformation
Justification is a profound legal transformation where Jesus, acting as our advocate, pays for our sins, making us righteous before God. This transformation is immediate and complete, changing our status from sinner to saint. It’s a profound reminder that our salvation is not earned but given freely through Christ’s sacrifice. This act of grace underscores the depth of God's love and the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice on our behalf. Understanding justification helps us to appreciate the unmerited favor we receive and the new identity we have in Christ.
In the story of the prodigal son, the father's acceptance of his wayward son upon his return symbolizes this act of justification. Despite the son's past mistakes, the father welcomes him with open arms, restoring his status as a beloved child. This mirrors how God, through Jesus, restores us to a right relationship with Him, not based on our merit but on His grace. Reflecting on this can deepen our gratitude and commitment to live in the light of this new identity. [03:24]
Romans 5:1-2 (ESV): "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God."
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt unworthy of God's love. How does understanding justification change your perspective on your worth and identity in Christ?
Day 2: Sanctification: The Ongoing Journey
Sanctification is the lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus. It begins the moment we accept Christ and continues through the work of the Holy Spirit. This journey involves daily choices and actions that align us more closely with Christ’s character, emphasizing the importance of personal spiritual growth. Unlike justification, which is an immediate change in status, sanctification is a gradual transformation that requires our active participation and cooperation with the Holy Spirit.
The story of the prodigal son also illustrates sanctification. After being welcomed back by his father, the son must learn to live in his father's house, adapting to a new way of life that reflects his restored relationship. Similarly, as believers, we are called to grow in our faith, making daily decisions that reflect our commitment to Christ. This process can be challenging, but it is essential for our spiritual maturity and effectiveness in God's kingdom. [05:14]
Philippians 2:12-13 (ESV): "Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you need to grow more like Jesus. What practical steps can you take today to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in this area?
Day 3: Glorification: The Final Union
Glorification is the ultimate stage of salvation, where we are fully united with Christ in heaven. It represents the completion of our salvation journey, where we experience the fullness of God’s glory and presence. This future hope encourages us to persevere in our faith and sanctification, knowing that our efforts and struggles are not in vain. Glorification is the culmination of God's redemptive work, where we will be transformed into the likeness of Christ and enjoy eternal fellowship with Him.
In the story of the prodigal son, glorification is depicted as the ultimate reunion with the father. This final stage of salvation assures us that despite the challenges and trials we face in this life, there is a glorious future awaiting us. This hope should inspire us to live faithfully and expectantly, looking forward to the day when we will be fully united with Christ. [07:57]
1 John 3:2 (ESV): "Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is."
Reflection: How does the promise of glorification influence your daily life and decisions? What can you do today to keep this future hope at the forefront of your mind?
Day 4: The Table: A Symbol of Unity and Transformation
The table in Scripture symbolizes honor, unity, and transformation. Jesus’ act of inviting sinners to His table flips cultural norms and illustrates the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom. It’s a place where we learn, grow, and experience God’s grace together as a community. In the Old Testament, being invited to someone's table was a significant honor, and Jesus extended this honor to those who were often marginalized and rejected by society.
This act of inclusion and transformation is a powerful reminder of the nature of God's kingdom, where all are welcome and valued. The table becomes a place of fellowship, where we can experience God's love and grace in a tangible way. It challenges us to extend the same grace and hospitality to others, breaking down barriers and building a community that reflects God's heart. [11:21]
Luke 14:13-14 (ESV): "But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just."
Reflection: Who in your life might feel excluded or marginalized? How can you extend an invitation to them, symbolically or literally, to join you at your table and experience God's love and grace?
Day 5: Personal Spiritual Growth: Eating Your Own Meal
Just as David couldn’t wear Saul’s armor, we must each have our own personal relationship with God. We can’t rely solely on the spiritual experiences of others; we must seek our own encounters with God. This personal growth is essential for deepening our faith and experiencing the fullness of God’s presence. Each believer is called to develop their own spiritual disciplines and practices that nurture their relationship with God.
David's refusal to wear Saul's armor highlights the importance of authenticity in our spiritual journey. We must find what works for us and pursue God in a way that is genuine and personal. This involves spending time in prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking God's guidance in our daily lives. By doing so, we can grow in our faith and become more effective in our walk with Christ. [20:49]
1 Samuel 17:39-40 (ESV): "And David strapped his sword over his armor. And he tried in vain to go, for he had not tested them. Then David said to Saul, 'I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them.' So David put them off. Then he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd's pouch. His sling was in his hand, and he approached the Philistine."
Reflection: What unique ways can you develop your personal relationship with God? Identify one new spiritual practice you can start today to deepen your faith and connection with Him.
Quotes
1. "When we give our lives to Jesus, this is new believers, these three things happen, and it's so much more nuanced. But these are some of the bullet points that happens at new birth or regeneration, is what scripture calls it. And it's three things. It's justification, sanctification, and glorification. Just to give you very brief bullet points. And I encourage you, I'm going to be your driver today, and I'm going to tell you out of your right window, look this way, and out of your left window, look this way." [01:49] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "See, sanctification begins when you give your life to the Lord and thank God for the Holy Spirit. The next step is glorification. And glorification simply is when we reach heaven. Glorification is not something that we will experience here on this side of heaven. It is when we are consumed in full glory of the Lord. You see, there's theological terms that are, is we are living in the now and not yet. We are saved, but being saved. Simply glorification is, we are no longer being saved, we are fully saved now." [07:28] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus brings you to the table by salvation and the spirit along with the church teaches you table manners. Wow, that's powerful. Jesus brings you to the table, but it's the church and his spirit that teach you table manners. See, like my friend who just gave his life to the Lord, you don't come into the kingdom knowing A, B, C, and D because there is a mode and a method to following Christ. It isn't you give your life to the Lord and you stay the same. No, you are now a new creation and a new creation needs to learn how to act in God's house." [15:24] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "It's very easy to ride on the emotion, the revelation, the passion of our brother or sister sitting next to us. It's very important that we know that the meal is intended for you to eat. You cannot eat your neighbor's meal. You can't eat your neighbor's meal. You need to eat your own meal. One way, Pastor Juliet went over it last week, but she talked about the armor of God. And one of the stories that I love is David going to go fight Goliath. And he goes, and he goes to Saul and is talking to Saul and Saul tells him, David, you have no chance, but how about you go put on my armor?" [19:58] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "It's important to know that today we are the church, right? We are one body united together, worshiping God, edifying each other, praying for one another. We are one body. But also we are individuals. Uniquely gifted to serve God in a way that only you can serve him. Only in a way that you can serve him. See, we all have different gifts and talents across this room. And the Lord desires you in your uniqueness. See, there is a buzzword that has been going around for a couple years now. And it's called church hurt. It's called church hurt." [21:51] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Jesus on the cross did something for sinners that we could never do. Jesus completed what no other priest had been able to do previously. Jesus did something for sinners that we could never do. Jesus pulled up a table and sat down through his sacrifice. See, priests were running around and could never be seated because they were just trying to earn atonement for their sins. But because of Jesus and his sacrifice, he pulled up a chair once and for all, getting rid of the 12 loaves and giving only one. And he is that loaf. He is that loaf at the table." [24:49] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "I often feel like we struggle with our sanctification because we don't realize how justified we actually are. I'm going to say that again. I feel like sometimes we struggle with our sanctification and becoming like Christ because we do not have the awareness of how much it actually costed Jesus on the cross. How much it actually costed him. It costed him everything. I'm going to invite the Montablos up. See, it is important to know that your seat at the table was costly. Your seat at the table was paid for, and it was costly." [26:04] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "The Lord desires you to be present at the table and to eat the meal. That's all he asks of you. And I would say that's all he's asking. What he's asking of you this morning is that you would come to the table because he's paid for your seat. He's paid for it in his own blood. With his body, he's paid for it. And all he wants is your nearness. All he wants is you. It's all he desires is you." [30:36] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "I had a dream years ago that was me sitting in bed. And in this dream, I see myself going to bed. And at my bedside table, I see a chair and I see Jesus sitting in that chair. And I look to Jesus and I tell him in this dream, which is crazy. I tell Jesus, I'm going to go to bed now. And he goes, okay. And I remember falling asleep. And in this dream, I see myself wake up. And Jesus was still seated at that chair, hadn't moved an inch. And I asked him in this dream, what are you doing? And he tells me, I'm just waiting to spend time with you." [31:12] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "The wounds in his hands, in his feet, in his side are the only thing made by man in heaven. It is what we gave him. The same God who transfixed the stars in the sky, we decided to transfix him on a tree. Yet the Lord saying, it is the joy set before me that I would do it all over again. Thank you, Holy Spirit. Yeah, I'd ask that of you also. Stand with me." [31:59] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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