The doctrine of Christian growth.
The Bible presents a number of pictures of advancement in the life of a Child of God, such
as the growth of a plant and tree (Ps. 92:12-14; Jer. 17:7-8), the process of maturity from
childhood to adulthood to seniority (I Cor. 3:1-3; Heb. 5:11-14; I Pet. 2:2; John 2:12-14),
progress in an athletic race (I Cor. 9:24-27), and advancement on a pilgrimage (Ps. 23:1-4;
Heb. 11:8-10). However, the biblical presupposition here is that authentic starters will, by
means of a process, be finishers (Phil. 1:6); in other words, while a child is secure in its birth
and family status, yet there is the necessity of growth, through the employment of various
means, that leads to parental likeness and stature.
1. Sanctification defined.
“Sanctification” describes the Christian’s definitive “set-apartness” by God (Heb.
10:10) that results in gradual conformity to the likeness of God, especially with regard
to His characteristic of holiness (I Thess. 4:3-4). Thus the believer, set apart by election,
regeneration, redemption and adoption, yet grows in this “set-apartness,” that is in
evident consecration from unrighteousness unto the righteousness of God.
116 BIBLE INTRODUCTION 101
2. Sanctification as definitive.
This is God’s setting apart that is definitive, an act that is complete and final, that is
not obtained by degrees. It is God’s once-and-for-all declaration that is directed toward
His elect, especially with a judicial perspective that concern’s God’s regard for the
chosen sinner, His calling that is complete and final (I Cor. 1:2; 6:11).
3. Sanctification as progressive.
Here sanctification involves a process whereby the Christian “grows in the grace and
knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (II Pet. 3:18). Thus the Christian is to
“sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to
everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with
gentleness and reverence” (I Pet. 3:15).
a. The dynamic.
There is the assumption of regeneration by the Holy Spirit (II Thess. 2:13; I Pet.
1:2) with whom there is to be responsible interaction (Gal. 5:16, 25; Eph. 4:30;
6:18; I Thess. 5:19).
b. The means.
These are the Word of God (II Tim. 2:15), prayer (I Thess. 5:17; I Tim. 2:8),
Christian fellowship (Heb. 10:25), participation in the ordinances (Acts 2:42), the
employment of spiritual gifts (II Tim. 1:6), and good works to all men (Gal. 6:10).
c. The interest.
This is that motivation, that inclination, that affection by which the authentic
believer has a personal desire to be holy because God is holy (I Pet. 1:15-16). It is
born of the indwelling life of God (Rom. 6:17; 8:10, not mere external mandate.
d. The consummation.
Complete sanctification is promised, yet it will only be fulfilled “Now may the
God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and
body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus
Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass” (I Thess.
5:23-34; cf. 1:5-6; 4:7-8).
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