Sanctification – The Advantage You Get

II Thessalonians 2:13-17, Romans 6:12-23

 In II Thessalonians Paul states that we have been given the first fruits of salvation through sanctification by the Spirit which came from their belief in the truth. First fruits are translated in earlier ancient authorities as, “from the beginning.” We begin with faith in the truth of God’s work of salvation which comes through sanctification of the Holy Spirit.

In Romans 6, this sanctification is said to be the advantage we get by being freed from sin and enslaved to God. Paul states this after telling us we are no longer under the law and slaves to sin but are now under grace. Paul is stressing that you don’t let sin have dominion over your mortal bodies. Don’t obey their evil passions. We should no longer be instruments of wickedness but by presenting ourselves to God we can become instruments of righteousness.

Then comes one of Paul’s famous questions: “Shall we sin so that grace may abound?” To this he has the harsh reply, “By no means!” He tells how continuing in sin makes us a slave to it and leads to death. We are now to present ourselves to righteousness which will lead us in the path of sanctification. Sanctification is the process of becoming holy and of reflecting more fully the image of Christ. By being enslaved to God and righteousness we can achieve the purpose God has for us to obtain the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ – to reflect Christ’s image more and more.

Salvation is not a “Get Out of Jail” free card – not just our passport to heaven. Our eternal life begins now living in God’s kingdom on earth where we continually grow in our sanctification. Paul’s wish for the Thessalonians is that they not only have comfort and hope for eternal life but that their hearts be comforted on earth and strengthened in every good work and word.

We no longer have to live under the law of the old covenant but as we live under the new covenant of grace, we need to enslave ourselves to God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live a life of righteousness as we take advantage of the path of sanctification God provides for us to help us reflect God’s image more fully. Amen

 

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