Understanding the Lifelong Journey of Sanctification

 

Summary

In our exploration of sanctification, we delve into the profound work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, emphasizing its critical role in the application of redemption. Sanctification is not merely a theological concept but a transformative process that addresses the persistent problem of sin in the believer's life. While justification declares us righteous, sanctification is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, purifying us from the pollution of sin and renewing our nature in the image of God. This process is not instantaneous but continuous, beginning at regeneration and culminating in glorification.

Historically, the doctrine of sanctification has been a subject of considerable debate, particularly since the time of John Wesley, who introduced significant ideas about Christian perfection and holiness. Wesley's views sparked discussions that have persisted, influencing various holiness movements and denominations. Despite differing perspectives, it is crucial to approach these discussions with a spirit of unity and a commitment to understanding the truth as revealed in Scripture.

Sanctification involves both a positional and an ethical dimension. Positionally, believers are set apart for God, a status that is both immediate and permanent. Ethically, sanctification is the process by which we are made holy, conforming more and more to the image of Christ. This involves a continuous operation of the Holy Spirit, delivering us from sin's power and enabling us to perform good works.

Different theological perspectives offer varied understandings of how sanctification occurs. Perfectionist views suggest the possibility of achieving some form of perfection in this life, often through a momentary experience. In contrast, the counteraction view emphasizes abiding in Christ to counteract sin's power. However, the view I advocate sees sanctification as a lifelong process, beginning at regeneration and only completed in glorification.

Ultimately, our pursuit of sanctification should be rooted in a deep love for God and a desire to reflect His holiness. As we study and engage with different teachings, let us do so with humility and a commitment to growing in our understanding and practice of holiness.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sanctification as a Continuous Process: Sanctification is not a one-time event but a continuous process that begins at regeneration and continues throughout the believer's life. It involves the Holy Spirit's ongoing work to purify us from sin and renew us in God's image. This process is only completed in glorification, highlighting the need for perseverance and reliance on the Spirit's power. [22:05]

2. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in sanctification, delivering us from sin's pollution and enabling us to perform good works. This divine operation is both gracious and continuous, emphasizing our dependence on the Spirit for spiritual growth and transformation. [22:24]

3. Historical Perspectives on Sanctification: The doctrine of sanctification has been debated for centuries, with significant contributions from figures like John Wesley. Understanding these historical perspectives can enrich our own understanding and practice of holiness, even as we critically evaluate different views. [06:07]

4. Sanctification's Dual Aspect: Sanctification involves both a positional and ethical dimension. Positionally, believers are set apart for God, while ethically, it involves an inward transformation that makes us holy. This dual aspect underscores the comprehensive nature of sanctification in the believer's life. [20:19]

5. Approaching Theological Differences with Humility: While theological differences exist regarding sanctification, it is essential to approach these discussions with humility and a commitment to truth. Engaging with diverse perspectives can deepen our understanding and promote spiritual growth, provided we remain rooted in Scripture. [42:05]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:09] - Introduction to Early Recording
- [00:42] - The Work of the Holy Spirit
- [01:17] - Doctrine of Sanctification
- [02:33] - Regeneration and Justification
- [03:48] - The Problem of Sin
- [04:24] - Historical Controversies
- [06:26] - Wesley's Influence
- [08:17] - The Importance of Doctrine
- [11:16] - Defining Sanctification
- [12:50] - Old and New Testament Meanings
- [16:07] - Sanctification in Believers
- [20:19] - Positional and Ethical Sanctification
- [22:05] - Continuous Operation of the Holy Spirit
- [25:51] - Different Views on Sanctification
- [38:28] - Sanctification as a Lifelong Process
- [42:05] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Sanctification and the Work of the Holy Spirit

Bible Reading:
1. John 17:19 - "For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth."
2. Romans 8:2 - "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death."
3. 1 Peter 1:2 - "Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ."

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Observation Questions:

1. What are the two main meanings of sanctification as discussed in the sermon? How do they relate to the believer's life? [20:19]

2. How does the sermon describe the role of the Holy Spirit in the process of sanctification? [22:05]

3. What historical figure is mentioned as having a significant influence on the doctrine of sanctification, and what was his contribution? [06:26]

4. According to the sermon, what is the difference between imputed and imparted righteousness? [23:45]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of sanctification as a continuous process challenge or affirm one's understanding of spiritual growth? [38:28]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that theological differences regarding sanctification should be approached? [42:05]

3. How does the dual aspect of sanctification (positional and ethical) impact a believer's daily life and decisions? [20:19]

4. What might be the implications of viewing sanctification as a lifelong process rather than a one-time event? [38:28]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. How have you experienced the continuous work of the Holy Spirit in your life? Can you identify specific areas where you have seen growth or change? [22:05]

2. The sermon emphasizes humility in approaching theological differences. How can you practice humility in discussions about faith with others who may hold different views? [42:05]

3. Consider the ethical dimension of sanctification. What is one area of your life where you feel called to conform more closely to the image of Christ? What steps can you take to pursue this transformation? [20:19]

4. How can understanding the historical perspectives on sanctification enrich your own faith practice? Are there any teachings or movements you feel drawn to explore further? [06:26]

5. The sermon discusses the importance of being set apart for God. In what ways can you intentionally set yourself apart in your daily routine to focus on your relationship with God? [13:08]

6. Reflect on the idea of sanctification as a lifelong journey. How does this perspective influence your approach to personal spiritual disciplines and community involvement? [38:28]

7. Identify a specific sin or struggle in your life. How can you rely on the Holy Spirit's power to overcome it and grow in holiness? [22:24]

Devotional

Day 1: The Lifelong Journey of Sanctification
Sanctification is a continuous journey that begins at regeneration and continues throughout a believer's life. It is not a one-time event but an ongoing process where the Holy Spirit works within us to purify us from sin and renew us in the image of God. This journey requires perseverance and reliance on the Spirit's power, as it is only completed in glorification. The believer is called to actively participate in this process, seeking to grow in holiness and reflect God's character in their daily life. [22:05]

"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." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

Reflection: What is one specific area in your life where you can invite the Holy Spirit to work more deeply in transforming you today?


Day 2: The Holy Spirit's Role in Our Transformation
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer's sanctification, delivering us from the pollution of sin and enabling us to perform good works. This divine operation is both gracious and continuous, emphasizing our dependence on the Spirit for spiritual growth and transformation. As believers, we are called to yield to the Spirit's leading, allowing Him to guide us in our journey toward holiness and Christlikeness. [22:24]

"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16, ESV)

Reflection: How can you be more intentional about walking by the Spirit in your daily life, especially in moments of temptation or challenge?


Day 3: Learning from Historical Perspectives on Sanctification
The doctrine of sanctification has been debated for centuries, with significant contributions from figures like John Wesley. Understanding these historical perspectives can enrich our own understanding and practice of holiness. While differing views exist, it is essential to approach these discussions with a spirit of unity and a commitment to the truth as revealed in Scripture. Engaging with diverse perspectives can deepen our understanding and promote spiritual growth. [06:07]

"Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7, ESV)

Reflection: What is one historical figure or theological perspective on sanctification that you can study this week to gain a deeper understanding of holiness?


Day 4: The Dual Aspect of Sanctification
Sanctification involves both a positional and ethical dimension. Positionally, believers are set apart for God, a status that is both immediate and permanent. Ethically, sanctification is the process by which we are made holy, conforming more and more to the image of Christ. This dual aspect underscores the comprehensive nature of sanctification in the believer's life, calling us to live out our set-apart status through holy living. [20:19]

"To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours." (1 Corinthians 1:2, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you better align your daily actions with your positional status as someone set apart for God?


Day 5: Embracing Theological Differences with Humility
While theological differences exist regarding sanctification, it is essential to approach these discussions with humility and a commitment to truth. Engaging with diverse perspectives can deepen our understanding and promote spiritual growth, provided we remain rooted in Scripture. As we study and engage with different teachings, let us do so with a spirit of unity and a desire to reflect God's holiness. [42:05]

"With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:2-3, ESV)

Reflection: How can you practice humility and openness when engaging with someone who holds a different theological perspective on sanctification?

Quotes


Now again I would remind you that nothing is more important in a sense than that we should see the relationship of these different aspects of the truth one to another. I shall have to emphasize that point uh considerably this evening because in connection with the doctrine that we are now considering it is one of the most important points of all. [00:00:56]

Sanctification involves both a positional and an ethical dimension. Positionally, believers are set apart for God, a status that is both immediate and permanent. Ethically, sanctification is the process by which we are made holy, conforming more and more to the image of Christ. This involves a continuous operation of the Holy Spirit, delivering us from sin's power and enabling us to perform good works. [00:20:19]

The word used in the Old Testament, the authorities are not quite agreed about it. Some say that it means to shine, to shine like a bright light, a shining. Others say that it means to cut and to separate. Well, I'm very ready to put both together because I think the two aspects of the matter do come into this whole question of sanctification. [00:11:20]

Sanctification is that gracious and continuous operation of the Holy Spirit by which he delivers the justified sinner from the pollution of sin, renews his whole nature in the image of God, and enables him to perform good works. Let me repeat that it is that gracious and continuous operation of the Holy Spirit by which he delivers the justified sinner. [00:22:05]

The doctrine of sanctification has been debated for centuries, with significant contributions from figures like John Wesley. Understanding these historical perspectives can enrich our own understanding and practice of holiness, even as we critically evaluate different views. Despite differing perspectives, it is crucial to approach these discussions with a spirit of unity and a commitment to understanding the truth as revealed in Scripture. [00:06:07]

Sanctification is a process which starts from the very moment of our regeneration and which continues progressively throughout our lives and which will only be perfect and complete beyond death and the grave. You notice the difference I take it I'm going to expound this next time but the big thing that differentiates this view from the others is this. [00:38:28]

The Christian is not committing willfully any known sin at any given moment. That's perfection at that moment. He is not guilty of committing any known sin willfully. John Wesley granted he may be committing sins that he's not aware of, but he very carefully, let's be fair to his teaching, he defines it as not being guilty willfully of any known sin at that moment. [00:28:44]

The perfectionist views say that sanctification is something that is to be received and that it can be received in a moment. Their teaching is you see that this is something that is done to us by God through the Holy Spirit and that all we have to do is to desire it and to believe that it's possible and to exercise faith to believe that if we ask God for it he will give it us. [00:31:22]

The second group likes to describe itself as the teaching which advocates or tells us that a man is sanctified not in that way that I've been describing but by means of what they call counteraction. This was the view that became popular in the 70s of the last century and is still popular at the present time and is of course the characteristic view that is taught by those who believe in the so-called kazic teaching. [00:32:39]

Sanctification is not a one-time event but a continuous process that begins at regeneration and continues throughout the believer's life. It involves the Holy Spirit's ongoing work to purify us from sin and renew us in God's image. This process is only completed in glorification, highlighting the need for perseverance and reliance on the Spirit's power. [00:22:05]

The way to approach this whole problem it seems to me is something like this let's start again with definition what is what is sanctification what's it mean now you go through your Bible pick out the terms in the old test and in the new you'll find quite a number what do the terms mean I can summarize it very briefly in this way. [00:11:20]

It is always the business of the Christian the believer to study the scriptures about any doctrine and to arrive at what he regards as the most scriptural understanding of the truth. Now if you don't do that let me warn you what the consequences are likely to be if you say that it doesn't matter at all and that you can't be bother and that these things don't count. [00:08:17]

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Transcript
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