Sanctification

From the moment that we become Christians (regeneration) we start a journey which encompasses the whole of our life, this journey continues until our death. This journey has the theological name of sanctification. For the next few studies I will present some information about this very important aspect of our lives. To start I will give the Westminster Confession of Faith's definition of sanctification and the scriptural proofs.

Chapter 13
Of Sanctification

1. They, who are once effectually called, and regenerated, having a new heart, and a new spirit created in them, are further sanctified, really and personally, through the virtue of Christ's death and resurrection, (a) by His Word and Spirit dwelling in them; (b) the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed, (c) and the several lusts thereof are more and more weakened and mortified; (d) and they more and more quickened and strengthened in all saving graces, (e) to the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. (f)

2. This sanctification is throughout, in the whole man; (g) yet imperfect in this life, there abiding still some remnants of corruption in every part; (h) whence arises a continual and irreconcilable war, the flesh lusting against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. (i)

3. In which war, although the remaining corruption, for a time, may much prevail; (k) yet, through the continual supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit of Christ, the regenerate part doth overcome; (l) and so, the saints grow in grace, (m) perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (n)

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(a) 1 Thess. 5:23-24    2 Thess.2:13-14      Ezek. 36:22-28    Titus 3:5    Acts 20:32  Phil. 3:10
      Rom. 6:5-6

(b) John 17:17, 19    Eph. 5:26    Rom. 8:13-14   2 Thess. 2:13

(c) Rom. 6:6, 14

(d) Gal. 5:24   Rom 8:13

(e) Col. 1:10-11

(f) 2 Cor. 7:1   Col. 1:28     Col. 4:12    Heb, 12:14

(g) 1 Thess. 5:23  Rom. 12:1-2

(h) 1 John 1:8-10   Rom. 7:14-25

(i) Gal. 5:17

(k) Rom. 7:23

(l) Rom. 6:14   1 John 5:4   Eph. 4:15-16

(m) 2 Pet. 3:18    2 Cor. 3:18

(n) 2 Cor. 7:1


The Church did not start with us, it has been going on as long as men have worshipped the one true and living God. God has dealt with the Church down through the ages. Men have written their experiences  dealing with God and have written documents that help to explain the Bible. These documents have lasting and have been used by the Church to help the people of God learn more about God. None of us are wise enough, obedient enough, loving enough, knowledgeable enough on our own to be what God wants us to be - we need each other - we need the Holy Spirit to work with us as members of the body of Christ. In our journey of sanctification, we must do it God's way, we must allow the Holy Spirit to guide and lead us, and He does that by and with the Word of God. This confession of faith is based on Scriptures, read it for yourself. You will find it to be a blessing just as it has been a blessing to the Church for hundreds of years.

God bless us in our walk of sanctification.