This is a report Cathy gave on Jan 6th
Sanctification
The generic meaning: State of proper functioning
A pen is “sanctified” when used to write. Eyeglasses are “sanctified” when used to improve sight.
Theological sense: Things are sanctified when they are used for the purpose God intends. A human being is “sanctified” when he/she lives according to God’s design and purpose
Also defined as God’s will for us
1 Thessalonians 4:3 It is God’s will that you should be sanctified, that you should avoid sexual immorality
Sanctification is mentioned throughout the bible as a common reminder of how to align yourself with God’s command.
Sanctification is the holy spirits work of growing us in holiness to be like Jesus, who is perfectly righteous.
Sanctification also involves our cooperation as we study the bible, pray, obey, and serve God. We need to trust and obey Jesus.
Sanctification is also God’s work in us – God gives us opportunities to depend on him more and more. We must love obeying God more than satisfying ourselves. When we show love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control, we are living by the Holy Spirit , not being ruled by old sinful desires.
Our practical righteousness – The daily conquest of sin in our thoughts and behaviors requires a continual dependence on the power of the holy spirit. We have a responsibility in our spiritual growth: it is to yield to his voice, his truth and actively commit to please him
1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Galatians 5:16-18 So I say, walk by the spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the spirit and the spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. but if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law
Ephesians 4:27 Do not give the devil a foothold
Colossians 3:2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Every day the holy spirit brings opportunities for us to grow and be more like Jesus. God constantly invests inner spiritual growth through our study of his word, relationships, and circumstances. Victory over sin proves Gods work inures and his faithfulness.
1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not quench the spirit
Sanctification takes a lifetime. We will never be completely perfected until the day of his return. We must resist temptation, flee from sin, press on, take hold, have a goal strain toward, and read the word of God. These allow the holy spirit to work in us with us and through us by cooperating and being proactive to avoid sinning against God.