Understanding the Process of Sanctification in Faith

 

Summary

In our exploration of sanctification, we delve into the profound work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Sanctification is a crucial aspect of the Christian journey, representing the process by which believers are set apart for God and transformed into the likeness of Christ. This transformation is not merely a positional change but involves an inward renewal, making us holy and enabling us to perform good works. The doctrine of sanctification has been a subject of considerable debate, particularly over the last two centuries, with various views on how it occurs and its extent.

Historically, the debate intensified with John Wesley's teachings on sanctification, which emphasized a form of Christian perfection. Wesley's views sparked discussions and even acrimonious debates among Christians, highlighting the importance of understanding and defining sanctification accurately. Sanctification involves both a separation from sin and a dedication to God, a concept that applies not only to individuals but also to objects and even to Christ himself, as seen in the scriptures.

The process of sanctification can be understood in three main views: perfectionist, counteraction, and progressive. The perfectionist view suggests that believers can achieve a form of perfection in this life, often defined as living without willful sin. The counteraction view, popularized by the Keswick movement, emphasizes abiding in Christ to counteract the power of sin. The progressive view, which I advocate, sees sanctification as a lifelong process that begins at regeneration and continues until we are fully glorified.

Understanding sanctification is vital for our spiritual growth and maturity. It is not just about moral purity but about our relationship with God. As we study and reflect on this doctrine, we are encouraged to approach it with humility and a desire for truth, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us into a deeper understanding and experience of God's transformative work in our lives.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sanctification as Separation and Dedication: Sanctification involves being set apart for God, both in position and in practice. It is a dual process of separating from sin and dedicating oneself to God's service, reflecting the holiness seen in Christ and the objects used in worship. This separation is not just external but involves an inward transformation that aligns us with God's will. [12:50]

2. The Historical Debate on Sanctification: The doctrine of sanctification has been a point of contention, particularly since John Wesley's teachings on Christian perfection. Understanding the historical context helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of this doctrine and encourages us to seek a balanced and scriptural view. [05:32]

3. The Three Views of Sanctification: The perfectionist, counteraction, and progressive views offer different perspectives on how sanctification occurs. Each view has its strengths and weaknesses, and studying them can enrich our understanding and practice of holiness. The progressive view emphasizes a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ. [38:28]

4. Sanctification as a Continuous Process: Unlike justification, which is a one-time event, sanctification is an ongoing process that begins at regeneration and continues throughout our lives. It involves the Holy Spirit's work in renewing our nature and enabling us to perform good works, ultimately leading to our glorification. [22:05]

5. The Importance of Doctrine and Truth: Understanding and defining sanctification is crucial for our spiritual growth. It is not enough to focus on results; we must seek the truth of God's Word to guide our beliefs and practices. This pursuit of truth protects us from false teachings and strengthens our faith. [08:17]

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 Controversy
- [06:26] - Wesley's Influence
- [08:17] - Importance of Doctrine
- [11:16] - Definition of Sanctification
- [12:50] - Separation and Dedication
- [20:19] - Inward Transformation
- [25:51] - Process of Sanctification
- [38:28] - Progressive Sanctification
- [42:41] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide: Sanctification

#### Bible Reading
1. John 17:19 - "For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth."
2. 1 Corinthians 6:11 - "And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God."
3. Hebrews 10:10 - "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

#### Observation Questions
1. What are the two main aspects of sanctification as described in the sermon? ([12:50])
2. How does the sermon describe the historical debate on sanctification, particularly in relation to John Wesley's teachings? ([05:32])
3. What are the three views of sanctification mentioned in the sermon, and how do they differ? ([38:28])
4. According to the sermon, how does sanctification differ from justification? ([22:05])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of sanctification as a separation and dedication to God challenge or affirm one's current understanding of holiness? ([12:50])
2. In what ways does understanding the historical debate on sanctification help believers today in their spiritual journey? ([05:32])
3. How might the progressive view of sanctification influence a believer's daily walk with Christ? ([38:28])
4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the process of sanctification, according to the sermon? ([22:05])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: In what areas do you feel the need for separation from sin and dedication to God? How can you take steps towards this transformation this week? ([12:50])
2. How can understanding the historical context of sanctification debates help you engage in more meaningful discussions about faith with others? ([05:32])
3. Consider the three views of sanctification. Which view resonates most with your personal experience, and how can you apply its principles to your spiritual growth? ([38:28])
4. Sanctification is described as a continuous process. What practical steps can you take to allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life more effectively? ([22:05])
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of doctrine and truth. How can you ensure that your beliefs and practices are aligned with the truth of God's Word? ([08:17])
6. Identify one area in your life where you struggle with sin. What specific actions can you take to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and renewal in that area? ([22:05])
7. How can you cultivate a spirit of humility and a desire for truth as you study the doctrine of sanctification? What resources or practices might aid you in this pursuit? ([22:05])

Devotional

Day 1: Sanctification as a Dual Process of Separation and Dedication
Sanctification is a profound journey of being set apart for God, involving both separation from sin and dedication to His service. This dual process is not merely an external change but an inward transformation that aligns us with God's will. It reflects the holiness seen in Christ and the objects used in worship, emphasizing that sanctification is both positional and practical. As believers, we are called to live lives that are distinct from the world, dedicated to reflecting God's character in all we do. [12:50]

Leviticus 20:26 (ESV): "You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine."

Reflection: In what specific ways can you separate yourself from worldly influences today to dedicate more of your life to God's service?


Day 2: Understanding the Historical Debate on Sanctification
The doctrine of sanctification has been a point of contention, particularly since John Wesley's teachings on Christian perfection. This historical debate highlights the complexity and depth of sanctification, encouraging believers to seek a balanced and scriptural understanding. By appreciating the historical context, we can better navigate the various perspectives and find a view that aligns with biblical truth. This understanding is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity, as it helps us avoid extremes and embrace a holistic view of sanctification. [05:32]

1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 (ESV): "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor."

Reflection: How can understanding the historical debates on sanctification help you in your personal journey of holiness and spiritual growth?


Day 3: Exploring the Three Views of Sanctification
Sanctification can be understood through three main views: perfectionist, counteraction, and progressive. Each perspective offers unique insights into how sanctification occurs, with strengths and weaknesses to consider. The perfectionist view suggests achieving a form of perfection in this life, while the counteraction view emphasizes abiding in Christ to counteract sin. The progressive view, which sees sanctification as a lifelong journey, encourages believers to continually grow in Christlikeness. Studying these views enriches our understanding and practice of holiness. [38:28]

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: Which view of sanctification resonates most with your current spiritual journey, and how can you incorporate its principles into your daily life?


Day 4: Sanctification as a Continuous Process
Unlike justification, which is a one-time event, sanctification is an ongoing process that begins at regeneration and continues throughout our lives. It involves the Holy Spirit's work in renewing our nature and enabling us to perform good works, ultimately leading to our glorification. This continuous process requires patience and perseverance, as we are gradually transformed into the likeness of Christ. Understanding sanctification as a lifelong journey helps us remain committed to spiritual growth and maturity. [22:05]

Philippians 1:6 (ESV): "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can see the Holy Spirit actively working to transform you, and how can you cooperate with this process today?


Day 5: The Importance of Doctrine and Truth in Sanctification
Understanding and defining sanctification is crucial for our spiritual growth. It is not enough to focus on results; we must seek the truth of God's Word to guide our beliefs and practices. This pursuit of truth protects us from false teachings and strengthens our faith. By grounding our understanding of sanctification in scripture, we ensure that our spiritual journey is aligned with God's will and purpose for our lives. [08:17]

Colossians 1:9-10 (ESV): "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."

Reflection: How can you deepen your understanding of sanctification through scripture, and what steps can you take to ensure your beliefs are aligned with biblical truth?

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 should 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. [00:56:03]

The doctrine of justification as you know deals with this whole problem of sin in The Believer. What God does about Sin in The Believer. Now I need scarcely remind you as we approach this Doctrine this subject that it's a highly controversial one because there are a number of different views and theories with respect to it. [03:57:44]

John Wesley propounded a theory with regard to sanctification and Holiness which he regarded as absolutely vital and taught it himself and taught his preachers to preach it and it led to great discussion and I'm sorry to have to add to acrimonious debate between equally good Christian people and equally Evangelical people on the two sides. [04:53:04]

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. [08:13:39]

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. [11:26:40]

Sanctification there is a cutting off there is a separation yes but true sanctification also involves a shining you know the sort of thing that was seen on moses' face after he'd been up on the mount with God his face shine there is a sort of brightness about Holiness a shining something of the Shina Glory itself. [12:07:20]

There are two main meanings to sanctification. The first is to set apart for God and for his service. Now that's a great meaning which attaches to this word representing sanctification in both the Old Testament and in the new and it's very interesting to observe that it's used not only with respect to men but even with respect to objects. [12:48:00]

Sanctification is a second meaning and the second meaning is not so much a positional meaning as an inward meaning. It doesn't so much make a statement about us as set apart for God. It means it it adds that because of that something happens within us to make us worthy of that it has an ethical meaning. [20:19:00]

It 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. [22:05:00]

Sanctification then I say is really God's way and method of dealing with this problem of sin after our regeneration and our justification. There's just one other thing I must say before I leave this question of definition we must always be careful to Define sanctification not only in terms of our moral State and condition. [24:28:00]

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. [38:28:00]

Let us read these books which are all of them expositions of scripture let us go to the scriptures let's try to examine them as dispassionately as we can let's try to arrive at the truth concerning this matter and believe me if we do it together in that way our souls shall be blessed and enriched and we will thank God. [41:44:00]

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Transcript
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