STUDY No. 16 - SANCTIFICATION

This "Bible word" is seldom heard outside the Christian faith. It is, however, full of meaning to the true believer. Modern Bible versions will generally be found to use a different, more familiar word. Translators themselves will admit that in doing this, parts of the original meaning are lost. It is far better if we take the time to learn the full original meaning from the Bible itself, resulting in greater knowledge and spiritual maturity.

SANCTIFICATION is the work of God in a true believer subsequent to the initial work of regeneration. It is a "setting apart" of a believer and a "setting apart" for God.
It has to do with our practical conformity to the divine nature that God has planted by grace within us.
 

1. THE GOD-WARD ASPECT OF SANCTIFICATION

 1 Thessalonians 5:23  God the Father sanctifies.
 Hebrews 13:12   The Lord Jesus Christ died that we might be sanctified.
 Romans 15:16  The Holy Spirit sanctifies.
 Hebrews 10:10  By whom or what are we sanctified? How many times?
 John 17:17  By what are we sanctified? 
 How does it do this? (See Ephesians 5:26)
 1 Thessalonians. 4:2,3a  There is no doubt at all that ‘sanctified’, ‘set apart’, ‘holy’, 
 is what the Lord’s intention is for every one of us.

Check also 1 Peter 1:16.

Seeing that sanctification is so clearly the work of the Godhead, some take the view that we can do nothing. "Let go... and let God...." is their practical understanding of this matter of sanctification.
 

2. THE MAN-WARD ASPECT OF SANCTIFICATION

The Bible clearly teaches there are some things that we are expected to do. We are called to co-operate with God in this matter.
 
 Romans 12:1  We must "present ourselves". Why? How? When?
 Romans 12:2  We must be transformed. In what way? Many times or once? 
 What does "renewing of the mind" actually mean in practice?
 2 Corinthians 3:18  Into what image shall we be changed? How can this happen? 
 What does it mean: "beholding as in a glass..."?
 Colossians 3:8,12  What should we put off? What should we put on? 
 How can we?  (ponder verse 3)
 Romans 6:11  How can we "reckon ourselves dead.."?
 Romans 6:12  If we are "dead to sin" how can it reign over us?
 Romans 6:16  Our part is to yield - either in obedience and say "no", 
 or in disobedience and say "yes"! 
 To whichever one we yield, to that we become a servant. 
 Passivity ("let go, let God") is yielding to nothing.

Positive Christian living involves a day by day obedience to the will of God
It will include taking advantage of the "means of growth" - in constant touch with the "Word of God" and a continued prayer walk with the Lord.

Some teach that a state of "sinless perfection" in this life is possible. This does not seem to be the teaching of Paul (see Philippians 3:12-14). Like him however, we can forget the past failures, having repented, and reach forth, pressing toward higher standards of holiness.

The sanctified life, the holy life, the God-fearing and God-pleasing life, is one of instant obedience. This is seen clearly in those great men of faith throughout Scripture. Knowing what God wanted, they did it.

TESTING THOSE DOUBTFUL PRACTICES IN LIFE

1. Is there any glory for the LORD in it?
1 Cor. 10:31 - We are not our own!

2. Will it spoil my fellowship with the Lord?
1 John 2:15-17 - We cannot serve two masters or enjoy all in the world and still walk closely with Him!

3. Would the Lord Jesus Christ have done it?
1 Peter 2:21 - He is not only our Saviour, but our example.

4. What effect will my conduct have upon younger Christians?
Romans 14:7 - My liberty could become his or her weakness!

5. Would I really like to be found doing this, or be in that place when Jesus comes?
1 John 2:28

Slackness in some of these doubtful areas could mean stunted spiritual growth.

Someone has said:

If it’s doubtful, it’s dirty!
 

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