Bible Question:
Greetings Forum! I would appreciate your help. I am currently doing a study of sanctification. I am especially interested in the doctrine of Entire Sanctification. Here is my question: Is there any support for the doctrine of Entire Sanctification in the Bible? This is not a trick question. I am in the process of studying this issue and have an open mind to whatever the Bible says. So, if you have any comments (based upon Scripture) either for or against this doctrine, I would appreciate hearing from you. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |
Bible Answer: I offer the following in the belief that before one launches into a discussion concerning the subject of (advanced) Entire Sanctification, it would be helpful to have a clear understanding of the basic Bible doctrine of (regular) sanctification. --JVH0212 Sanctification, holiness, Summary: (1) In both Testaments the same Hebrew and Greek words are rendered by the English works "sanctify" and "holy," in their various grammatical forms. The one uniform meaning is, "to set apart for God." (2) In both Testaments the words are used of "things" and "persons". (3) When used of things no moral quality is implied; they are sanctified or made holy because set apart for God. (4) Sanctification when used of persons has a threefold meaning. (a) In position, believers are eternally set apart for God by redemption, "through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once" Hebrews 10:9,10 . Positionally, therefore, believers are "saints" and "holy" from the moment of believing ; Philippians 1:1 ; Hebrews 3:1. (b) In experience, the believer is being sanctified by the work of the Holy Spirit through the Scriptures John 17:17 ; 2 Corinthians 3:18 ; Ephesians 5:25,26 ; 1 Thessalonians 5:23,24 (c) In consummation, the believer's complete sanctification awaits the appearing of the Lord Ephesians 5:27 See "Salvation," (See Scofield "Romans 1:16 ") . Scofield, C.I. "Scofield Reference Notes on Revelation 22". "Scofield Reference Notes (1917 Edition)". (http://bible.crosswalk.com/Commentaries/ScofieldReferenceNotes/). 1917 |