This is part 2 of a 4 part series on Sanctification within the series on John 17. The others are:
1. In the World but Not Of It (Sanctification: Definitive & Progressive)
3. The Sent Ones (by Pastor Poss)
4. Sanctified in the Truth
Sanctify them in the truth, Thy Word is Truth.
Having been born again by the imperishable seed of the Word of God (1 Pet 1:23), Peter admonishes us then as newborn babes [to] long for the pure milk of the Word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation (1 Pet 2:2). Jesus tells us that true discipleship is characterized by continuing or remaining in the Word (John 8:31-32). The only thing that will ever set a sinner free from the bondage of his sin is the Truth. The Truth is what sets us free unto salvation and in sanctification.
2 Tim 3:16-17 teaches us that the Word of God is the God-ordained means for doctrine, reproof, correction, and training; that we might be thoroughly equipped for every good work. It is the Word of God that performs its work in you who believe (1 Thess 2:13). To the extent that we neglect the Word of God, we will be severely crippled and under God’s chastisement; but to the extent that we practice the spiritual discipline of Scripture reading and meditation, we will experience sanctifying grace.
I am grateful to Dr. William R. Downing of Sovereign Grace Baptist Church of S.V. California for his series on sanctification which was vrey helpful in preparing this series on the doctrine of sanctification.
