Salvation, sanctifcation

Lockheed

Well-Known Member
Mar 2, 2005
515
29
✟816.00
Faith
Calvinist
Sanctification is a process in which God sanctifies us over time by grace. Yet the Bible speaks of sanctification in other ways, not relating to salvation, but in the 'setting apart' of one for a purpose or grace.

The WCF has a fine section detailing the Reformed view of sanctification.

http://www.reformed.org/documents/index.html?mainframe=westminster_conf_of_faith.html

I. They who are 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, by his Word and Spirit dwelling in them; the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed, and the several lusts thereof are more and more weakened and mortified, and they more and more quickened and strengthened, in all saving graces, to the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.

II. This sanctification is throughout in the whole man, yet imperfect in this life: there abideth still some remnants of corruption in every part, whence ariseth a continual and irreconcilable war, the flesh lusting against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh.

III. In which war, although the remaining corruption for a time may much prevail, yet, through the continual supply of strength rom the sanctifying Spirit of Christ, the regerate part doth overcome: and so the saints grow in grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
 
Upvote 0

CoffeeSwirls

snaps back wash after wash...
Apr 17, 2004
595
37
50
Ankeny, Iowa
Visit site
✟8,437.00
Faith
Calvinist
Marital Status
Married
Salvation and Sanctification are not like a burger and fries. If you order both a burger and fries at a McDonald's, you may choose to eat one or the other, but God serves both blessings to us (among others) and not one or the other.

This is reminiscent of John Piper's discussion of the chief end of man. It is not to glorify God OR to worship Him forever. It is to glorify God by worshiping Him forever. Note that the catechism says chief end (singular), not chief ends (plural).
 
Upvote 0