Progressive sanctification is centered in the life and ministry of Jesus: and, the power (or, ability) for sanctification in the believer's life comes through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Paul makes this clear in his first letter to the Corinthians: Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual (1 Cor. 2:12-13).
At salvation, the believer is set apart by the Holy Spirit as God’s possession, and enabled by the same Spirit for daily, and life-long, holy living (Eph. 1:13-14; 1 Pt. 1:13-16).
Therefore, Paul explains, the believer is to, “walk by the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16a) and, “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit” (Gal. 5:25). Conversely, the believer is not to “quench the Spirit,” (1 Thess. 5:19), nor “grieve the Holy Spirit of God” (Eph. 4:30).
Therefore, Paul explains, the believer is to, “walk by the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16a) and, “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit” (Gal. 5:25). Conversely, the believer is not to “quench the Spirit,” (1 Thess. 5:19), nor “grieve the Holy Spirit of God” (Eph. 4:30).
The reality is, that it is only because of the indwelling ministry of the Spirit that the follower of God is set apart to God, and able to live in any way pleasing for God. Thus, we are instructed to nurture that Spirit dependence each and every day as we progressively grow in relationship with God
Tomorrow, the instrument of progressive sanctification: the Word of God.
Blessings
3 John 8
Bill H.
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