Sanctification - Part 10

Having considered the theological foundations and an outline of the basic framework of the doctrine of sanctification, it is necessary to consider how this is applied and lived-out in the believer’s life.

The emphasis of this section is specific practical application. While many things could be discussed, four core theologically-driven means for sanctification are suggested:

(1) Bible intake,
(2) the local church,
(3) the spiritual disciplines, and
(4) missional and/or service living.

Each will be examined over the next four days.

First, in order to grow in one's sanctification, there must be systematic intake and study of the Word of God

The most obvious and necessary starting point of sanctification and personal holiness development is the study and application of the word of God in the believer’s life. The biblical writers testify to this throughout the scriptures: Duet. 6:1-9; Psalm 1; Matt. 28:19-20; Eph. 5:25-26; Heb. 4:12; 1 Pt. 2:2. This is a foundational and absolute essential reality of the Christine life; without intake of God’s Word, there is no personal spiritual growth or holiness.

How this intake happens is open to many creative means: preaching, Sunday School classes, one-on-one study with someone else, personal studies, small groups, and the Internet opens doors to teachers and resources that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Whatever means are used, it should be regular (daily) and must involve personal effort (study), as well as listening to and participating with others as they preach and teach us God’s Word (1 Tim. 4:13; 2 Tim. 4:2).

The overwhelming testimony of the scriptures is that there is no spiritual growth, no sanctification, without a regular diet of scriptural intake (2 Tim. 3:15-16). Without such a diet, there will be no true sanctifying process (Heb. 5:11-6:3).

Blessings
3 John 8
Bill H.