InstaStudy

Sanctification: A Journey of Holiness

This study explores the biblical call to sanctification, understanding it as a process of separation unto God and transformation into His likeness, empowered by His Spirit.

1. The Foundation of Sanctification

1.1 God's Nature as Holy

Verses: Leviticus 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15-16
  • God is inherently pure and separate from all sin.
  • His holiness is the standard for His creation.
  • We are called to reflect His character.

1.2 The Call to Be Holy

Verses: Hebrews 12:14; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7
  • Sanctification is God's will for believers.
  • It involves separation from ungodliness and dedication to God.
  • Holiness is necessary for seeing the Lord.

1.3 Jesus Christ: Our Sanctifier

Verses: Hebrews 10:10; 1 Corinthians 1:30; John 17:17
  • Jesus, the one true God manifested in flesh, is the source of our sanctification.
  • Through His sacrifice, we are made holy and set apart.
  • His word is the instrument of our sanctification.

2. Initial Sanctification: The New Birth Experience

2.1 Repentance and Conversion

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3
  • Repentance is a change of mind leading to a change of life, turning from sin to God.
  • It is the first step in aligning with God's will for holiness.
  • Conversion marks a decisive break with the old life.

2.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
  • Baptism is an essential act of obedience for the remission of sins.
  • It is administered by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • This act signifies our death to sin and resurrection to new life in Him.

2.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The infilling of God's Spirit is a distinct experience following repentance and baptism.
  • It empowers believers for holy living and service.
  • Speaking in other tongues is the initial evidence of receiving the Spirit.

3. Progressive Sanctification: Living a Holy Life

3.1 Separation from the World

Verses: 2 Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:2; James 4:4
  • Sanctification involves a continuous separation from worldly values and practices.
  • Believers are called to be distinct from the ungodly culture around them.
  • Friendship with the world is enmity with God.

3.2 Renewing the Mind

Verses: Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23
  • Transformation begins with a renewed mind, aligning thoughts with God's word.
  • This process involves casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.
  • A sanctified mind thinks on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable.

3.3 Overcoming Sin

Verses: Romans 6:12-14; 1 John 3:9
  • Sanctification is an ongoing battle against the flesh and temptation.
  • Through the power of God's Spirit, believers can walk in victory over sin.
  • A truly born-again believer does not habitually practice sin.

3.4 Cultivating Righteousness

Verses: Philippians 4:8; Galatians 5:22-23
  • Sanctification involves actively pursuing and practicing righteousness.
  • This includes developing Christ-like character and virtues.
  • The fruit of the Spirit is evidence of a sanctified life.

4. The Role of the Spirit in Sanctification

4.1 The Spirit as Guide and Teacher

Verses: John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:10-13
  • God's Spirit leads believers into all truth, revealing His will.
  • He teaches us how to live a life pleasing to God.
  • The Spirit illuminates scripture, making it applicable to our lives.

4.2 The Spirit as Empowerer

Verses: Romans 8:13; Galatians 5:16
  • The Spirit provides the power to overcome sin and live righteously.
  • Walking in the Spirit enables us to resist the desires of the flesh.
  • He gives strength to endure trials and temptations.

4.3 Bearing the Fruit of the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:9
  • The indwelling Spirit produces divine character traits in believers.
  • Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control are evidence of His work.
  • These fruits demonstrate a life increasingly dedicated to God.

5. The Ultimate Goal of Sanctification

5.1 Conforming to the Image of Christ

Verses: Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18
  • God's ultimate purpose is for believers to be transformed into the likeness of Jesus.
  • This transformation is a continuous process, from glory to glory.
  • We are called to reflect His character and nature in all aspects of life.

5.2 Living in God's Presence

Verses: Hebrews 12:14; Matthew 5:8
  • Sanctification prepares us for intimate fellowship with God.
  • Purity of heart enables us to experience His presence more fully.
  • Only the pure in heart will see God.

5.3 Hope of Glorification

Verses: 1 John 3:2; Philippians 3:20-21
  • The sanctification process culminates in our glorification at His return.
  • We will be made perfectly like Him, free from sin and corruption.
  • This hope motivates us to pursue holiness now.