The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Who can be pardoned?

Susan,

Great quote(s) from J.C. Ryle and his marvelous book, Holiness. What some here also seem to have missed or perhaps rejected, is the biblical distinction between Definitive Sanctification and Progressive Sanctification (Growth in Grace). Our total reliance on acceptance with God in both justification and sanctification is the Lord Jesus Christ (1Cor 1:30). Not even our good works are acceptable in and of themselves as being perfect in holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Yet they are required of us as the Spirit works in us (Phil 2:12, 13; Eph 2:8-10). As our faith is not that which effects justification, our good works don't effect our sanctification. But both are the necessary means to their respective ends.

Where justification, being a forensic declaration, is about our condition, sanctification, being a dynamic work of restoration, is that which changes our condition. As one Puritan said, "Justification makes us qualified for heaven. Sanctification prepares us for heaven."

Thus, there is this two-fold aspect of sanctification; one objective (our holiness in Christ who is our righteousness), and the subjective (our being made holy by the Spirit of Christ Who leads us into righteousness).

In His Grace,