" And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it."
(1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)
Introduction
The Holy Scriptures make use of several words that relate to our study on sanctification. For the moment let us take a brief look at two words which speak of the state and position of the believer in Christ.
Justification
The basic meaning of this word describes the believer as being "counted righteous" before God.
Sanctification
This takes place when God actually makes the believer righteous.
In justification he is pronounced righteous, but is made righteous in sanctification.
Entire Sanctification
Both justification and sanctification take place instantly at the new birth. But it has to noticed that there are two stages of sanctification. At regeneration sanctification is begun, but it has to grow to maturity as the believer advances in his new life. This is what we mean by 'Entire Sanctification.'
Israel was delivered from bondage in Egypt, and had to enter the Promised Land. The believer, though surely saved by the Passover Lamb, must continue walk with Christ all the way to the Heavenly Canaan.
There are those who want salvation without living a saved life. Some are content with having the Blesser without the blessings. Is this not in reality accepting only half of reason why the Saviour died for us?
Conclusion
The only causes for not receiving, or going on to, entire sanctification, are a lack of faith and disobedience in the Christian life. No wonder most believers live a sinful and defeated life. The Lord calls us to "Only believe," then we can know something about triumphant faith that overcomes sin, temptation, defeat and fear. Then, throughout eternity we will praise Him for sanctification in all its
fulness.
Holiness by faith in Jesus,
Not by effort of thine own,
Sin's dominion crushed and broken
By the power of grace alone.
God's own holiness within thee,
His own beauty on thy brow,
This shall be thy pilgrim brightness,
This thy blessed portion now.