"What is the role of effort in sanctification". The prof is Southern Baptist. Any resource suggestions? Thanks in advance.
The prof is Southern Baptist.
Is this a warning? [:P] Is it supposed to have an impact on the suggestions?
I'm reading this book for a Knox seminary class. A hard read...
G. C. Berkouwer, Faith and Sanctification (trans. John Vriend); Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1952). Available in Logos
Hope this helps.
Peter
No role whatsoever.
9 Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, 10 thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers—none of these will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And this is what some of you used to be. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.
1 Corinthians 6:9–11
For a comparative look at multiple views, there's the Five Views volume:
https://www.logos.com/product/16625/five-views-on-sanctification
Any number of systemic theologies have chapters on sanctification. I find Wayne Grudem's discussion to be helpful:
logosres:grudemest;ref=Page.p_753;off=754
Here's a book to check out... $4.99 Kindle
http://www.amazon.com/Acting-Miracle-Gods-Mystery-Sanctification-ebook/dp/B00HDQHJ4O/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1389201144&sr=8-13&keywords=kevin+deyoung
And this one...
http://www.amazon.com/Hole-Our-Holiness-Filling-Godliness-ebook/dp/B008DXFH5Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1389201561&sr=8-3&keywords=kevin+deyoung
No role whatsoever. 9 Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, 10 thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers—none of these will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And this is what some of you used to be. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11
Purely from a language perspective, your quote doesn't (necessarily) support your claim. In fact, one could easily use the quote to suggest the opposite.
No role whatsoever. 9 Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, 10 thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers—none of these will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And this is what some of you used to be. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 Purely from a language perspective, your quote doesn't support your claim. In fact, one could easily use the quote to suggest the opposite.
Purely from a language perspective, your quote doesn't support your claim. In fact, one could easily use the quote to suggest the opposite.
What have you been smoking, David?
I recommend a least ref'ing the sectarian Qumran writings for parallel usage at the time ... not centuries later.
I hope your paper goes well! As you work toward writing it, make sure you have a clear definition of sanctification and that you're on the same page as the prof (Baker, ISBE).
Logos Books:
*** Bridges, J. (1978). The pursuit of holiness. Colorado Springs: Navpress. [Link]
Owen, J. (n.d.). The works of John Owen. (W. H. Goold, Ed.) (Vol. 3). Edinburgh: T&T Clark. [Book IV]
Ryle, J. C. (1889). Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties and Roots. London: William Hunt and Company. [Link]
Chapell, B. (2001). Holiness by grace : delighting in the joy that is our strength. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books. [Link]
Those are more personal than scholarly, but shouldn't that be the nature of sanctification?
These ones might be more worthy for a paper:
Pink, A. W. (2005). The doctrine of sanctification. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software. [Link]
Swindoll, C. R., & Zuck, R. B. (2003). Understanding Christian theology. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers. [VII Sanctification]
Someone already mentioned Grudem [Chapter 38]
Outside Logos: I enjoyed the 2010 Conference for Pastors [http://www.desiringgod.org/conference-messages/by-series/2010-conference-for-pastors]
Myself, George (Rom. 12:1) ...ergo my statement above.
I would recommend any number of books associated with Renovaré. The authors to look for are Dallas Willard, Richard Foster, and James Bryan Smith. One quote from Willard (a Southern Baptist):
Once we learn that grace is not opposed to effort (action)—though it is opposed to earning (attitude)—the way is open for us to “work out” all that is involved in our salvation, not only “with fear and trembling” but also with the calm assurance that it is God who is at work in us to accomplish all of His goodwill (see Philippians 2:12–13). The Great Omission
Once we learn that grace is not opposed to effort (action)—though it is opposed to earning (attitude)—the way is open for us to “work out” all that is involved in our salvation, not only “with fear and trembling” but also with the calm assurance that it is God who is at work in us to accomplish all of His goodwill (see Philippians 2:12–13).
The Great Omission
George is correct, sanctification is just as much a work of grace as justification. The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification is one sale right now and it does a masterful job of making this clear.
https://www.logos.com/product/6215/the-gospel-mystery-of-sanctification
"Christians are saved by grace, but how is that salvation manifested in daily life? Sanctification deals with this process of salvation—being united with Christ, living a holy life, and growing in obedience to God.
The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification has become one of the most influential works on the subject. First published in 1692, Walter Marshall’s treatise has been reprinted continually for more than four hundred years. Generations of Christians have drawn wisdom and inspiration from it, and countless theologians have been influenced by Marshall’s classic work. John Murray called it “the most important book on sanctification ever written” and J. I. Packer has written that it is among the best books written on the Reformed doctrine of sanctification.
Marshall’s work is divided into fourteen sections—each one describing a direction toward Christian holiness. Each section contains a detailed explanation, and draws from Scripture to provide practical insight for daily Christian living."
And this one... The Hole in Our Holiness: Filling the Gap between Gospel Passion and the Pursuit of Godliness [Kindle Edition] http://www.amazon.com/Hole-Our-Holiness-Filling-Godliness-ebook/dp/B008DXFH5Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1389201561&sr=8-3&keywords=kevin+deyoung
it seems your link isn't working, and I refrain from making it work in my quote, since this link is much better: https://vyrso.com/product/26082/the-hole-in-our-holiness-filling-the-gap-between-gospel-passion-and-the-pursuit-of-godliness
No role whatsoever. 9 Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, 10 thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers—none of these will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And this is what some of you used to be. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 Purely from a language perspective, your quote doesn't support your claim. In fact, one could easily use the quote to suggest the opposite. What have you been smoking, David?
George is correct, sanctification is just as much a work of grace as justification. The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification is one sale right now and it does a masterful job of making this clear. https://www.logos.com/product/6215/the-gospel-mystery-of-sanctification
George is correct, sanctification is just as much a work of grace as justification.
The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification is one sale right now and it does a masterful job of making this clear.
Since George said that effort plays no part whatsoever in sanctification, that would mean no effort is necessary. Marshall doesn't seem to agree...
DIRECTION I
That we may acceptably perform the duties of Holiness, and Righteousness required in the law, our first work is, to learn the powerful and effectual means whereby we may attain to so great an end.
My work is, to shew how the duties of this law may be done, when they are known: therefore expect not that I should delay my intent, to help you to the knowledge of them, by any large exposition of them; which is a work already performed in several catechisms and commentaries. Yet, that you may not miss the mark, for want of discerning it, take notice, in a few words, that the holiness which I would bring you to is spiritual, Rom. 7:14. It consists not only in external works of pietyand charity, but in the holy thoughts, imaginations, and affections of the soul, and chiefly in love; from whence all other good works must flow, or else they are not acceptable to God, not only in refraining the execution of sinful lusts, but in longing and delighting to do the will of God, and in a cheerful obedience to a God, without repining, fretting, grudging at any duty, as if it were a grievous yoke and burden to you.
That is the FIRST page of the book!
Grace is deceitful. Prov. 31:30.
For all the discussion that's happening--this is the reason I love Bridges book (Pursuit of Holiness). Here's the Preface:
A farmer plows his field, sows the seed, and fertilizes and cultivates—all the while knowing that in the final analysis he is utterly dependent on forces outside of himself. He knows he cannot cause the seed to germinate, nor can he produce the rain and sunshine for growing and harvesting the crop. For a successful harvest, he is dependent on these things from God. Yet the farmer knows that unless he diligently pursues his responsibilities to plow, plant, fertilize, and cultivate, he cannot expect a harvest at the end of the season. In a sense he is in a partnership with God, and he will reap its benefits only when he has fulfilled his own responsibilities.Farming is a joint venture between God and the farmer. The farmer cannot do what God must do, and God will not do what the farmer should do.We can say just as accurately that the pursuit of holiness is a joint venture between God and the Christian. No one can attain any degree of holiness without God working in his life, but just as surely no one will attain it without effort on his own part. God has made it possible for us to walk in holiness. But He has given to us the responsibility of doing the walking; He does not do that for us. We Christians greatly enjoy talking about the provision of God, how Christ defeated sin on the cross and gave us His Holy Spirit to empower us to victory over sin. But we do not as readily talk about our own responsibility to walk in holiness. Two primary reasons can be given for this.First, we are simply reluctant to face up to our responsibility. We prefer to leave that to God. We pray for victory when we know we should be acting in obedience. The second reason is that we do not understand the proper distinction between God’s provision and our own responsibility for holiness. I struggled for a number of years with the question, “What am I to do myself, and what am I to rely on God to do?” Only as I came to see what the Bible teaches on this question, and then faced up to my own responsibility, did I see any progress in the “pursuit of holiness.”The title for this book comes from the biblical command, “Pursue holiness, for without holiness no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14, author’s paraphrase). The word pursue suggests two thoughts: first, that diligence and effort are required; and second, that it is a lifelong task. These two thoughts form a dual theme throughout this book. While seeking to set forth clearly and accurately God’s provision for our holiness, I have deliberately stressed our responsibility, feeling that this is an emphasis sorely needed among Christians today. At the same time I have sought to emphasize that holiness is a process, something we never completely attain in this life. Rather, as we begin to conform to the will of God in one area of life, He reveals to us our need in another area. That is why we will always be pursuing—as opposed to attaining—holiness in this life. In addition to my own personal Bible study on the subject of holiness, I have profited greatly from the writings of the Puritans—and those who followed in their school of thought—on the subject of holiness. On numerous occasions I have quoted directly from them and have so indicated in the appropriate footnotes. In other instances their phraseology has crept into my own manner of expression. This is particularly true of the writings of John Owen and of Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones of London, both of whose writings on this subject have been of invaluable personal blessing. I do not profess to know all about this subject, nor can I claim all that much personal progress. Many times while writing this book I have had to first make application to my own life. But what I have discovered has been of invaluable help to me in my own pursuit of holiness, and I trust will be of help to all who read it. To explore more fully the scriptural principles of holiness, which I studied in writing this book, I encourage the reader to work through A Bible Study on the Pursuit of Holiness, which is published by NavPress as a companion to this book. Finally, I want to express my thanks to Mrs. Peggy Sharp and Miss Linda Dicks, who patiently typed and retyped the various drafts of the manuscript.
Bridges, J. (1978). The pursuit of holiness (p. 9). Colorado Springs: Navpress.
George is correct, sanctification is just as much a work of grace as justification. The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification is one sale right now and it does a masterful job of making this clear. https://www.logos.com/product/6215/the-gospel-mystery-of-sanctification Since George said that effort plays no part whatsoever in sanctification, that would mean no effort is necessary. Marshall doesn't seem to agree... DIRECTION I That we may acceptably perform the duties of Holiness, and Righteousness required in the law, our first work is, to learn the powerful and effectual means whereby we may attain to so great an end. My work is, to shew how the duties of this law may be done, when they are known: therefore expect not that I should delay my intent, to help you to the knowledge of them, by any large exposition of them; which is a work already performed in several catechisms and commentaries. Yet, that you may not miss the mark, for want of discerning it, take notice, in a few words, that the holiness which I would bring you to is spiritual, Rom. 7:14. It consists not only in external works of pietyand charity, but in the holy thoughts, imaginations, and affections of the soul, and chiefly in love; from whence all other good works must flow, or else they are not acceptable to God, not only in refraining the execution of sinful lusts, but in longing and delighting to do the will of God, and in a cheerful obedience to a God, without repining, fretting, grudging at any duty, as if it were a grievous yoke and burden to you. That is the FIRST page of the book! Grace is deceitful. Prov. 31:30.
Sanctification is being set apart for God. It is not how good you are. The Tent of Meeting and the High Priests in the OT were considered to be set apart to God (Exodus 29:38-46; Exodus 28:36–38). Jesus set himself apart for God (Jn 17.19). God sets apart his people for himself (Jn 17.16-17). We do not sanctify ourselves by becoming better.
The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification is one sale right now and it does a masterful job of making this clear. https://www.logos.com/product/6215/the-gospel-mystery-of-sanctification
The beauty of having the resource in Logos is the cross referencing, tagging, etc. If you just want a quick review, it's available in PDF format for free on the web, for instance here.
--Bro. Mark
Coincidentally, Five Views of Sanctification is the book I brought to work with me today. [:)]
I would recommend that you consider the view of John Murray (unfortunately, not in Logos) on the subject of "definitive sanctification."
Such a simple sounding question, but also one where we can talk past each other so easy.
"effort". WHOSE effort? Ours? Gods? I would say God's, but how does God's effort happen and come to us? "foolishness of preaching" (1 Cor 1.12, and I suppose Rom 10) - "earthen vessels" (2 Cor 4)
"sanctification" - what do you mean by this? I would say that it has something to do with God making those of us who are not a people into God's people... Check out 1 Peter and Hosea, among other passages. Or those of us who are dead into those alive in Christ (Romans and Ephesians in their own ways speak about this)
What about other passages like Philippians, that says to work out your salvation with fear and trembling?
These passages have been the subject of extensive theological debate - and lots of yelling and too little listening. It would seem that more time actually listening to the word would be in order - as well as listening to each other and clarifying what we mean by terms that can easily mean different things to different people.
If I had to do an assignment like this today, I would pick one the terms that is debated about this and then study what the Bible actually says about it.
"sanctification" - what do you mean by this? I would say that it has something to do with God making those of us who are not a people into God's people... Check out 1 Peter and Hosea, among other passages. If I had to do an assignment like this today, I would pick one the terms that is debated about this and then study what the Bible actually says about it.
"sanctification" - what do you mean by this? I would say that it has something to do with God making those of us who are not a people into God's people... Check out 1 Peter and Hosea, among other passages.
An approach I like is to do what few seem to do...look at it not according to the way I think it is supposed to work, but in the way THAT explanation doesn't work.
It's all fine and dandy to talk about those who are not a people becoming a people...but what about the people that actually were a people (uh, supposedly THE people), but for some reason got the cold shoulder?? What happened? Weren't they "sanctified"??? What broke down? Answer that question, and a few of the ones that logically follow, and you will come up with answers that don't mesh with "the standard explanation(s)". And whatever you do, DON'T accept anyone's (and I do mean anyone's) summation of the breakdown--make sure you follow the evidence trail on your own. Remember, there is a "strong delusion" out there just waiting to suck you in...if it hasn't already.
A study on Antinomians would be fruitful.
Wouldn't it, now! [I]
LOL The irony of that statement just hit me. [:P]
Thanks for sharing your view George, but I believe the OP asked for suggestions on resources that discuss the topic and not for your particular view/opinion on the subject. I'm sure others will feel the need to reply to your comment by presenting their view and then it'll become a non ending theological debate. So let's keep this thread with suggestions on resources that discuss the topic and not your personal theological views that in your eyes seem right, but in the eyes of others may not seem right.
Brotherly,
DAL
Ps. My suggestion is Grudem's Systematic Theology and Cottrell's The Faith Once and for All...both contain 2 different views for comparison.
No role whatsoever. 9 Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, 10 thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers—none of these will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And this is what some of you used to be. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 Thanks for sharing your view George, but I believe the OP asked for suggestions on resources that discuss the topic and not for your particular view/opinion on the subject. I'm sure others will feel the need to reply to your comment by presenting their view and then it'll become a non ending theological debate. So let's keep this thread with suggestions on resources that discuss the topic and not your personal theological views that in your eyes seem right, but in the eyes of others may not seem right. Brotherly, DAL Ps. My suggestion is Grudem's Systematic Theology and Cottrell's The Faith Once and for All...both contain 2 different views for comparison.
What I passed on was not simply my opinion, but the undoubted truth of scripture. I would never write anything else. I only write what is undoubted Christian truth such as "It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a Democrat to enter the kingdom of heaven." [;)]
I read this tonight and thought of your paper.
Romans 6:16
One of the posts said it well. First, you'd need to define sanctification.
If the paper is longish, I'd spend quality time on "definitions", with emphasis on word study. The theological word books (available on Logos) would be a good place to start.
If the paper is even longisher, I'd also touch on historical interpretations, avoiding modern treatments for the time being. In this regard, systematic theologies and some classical writings (e.g. church fathers) are indispensable.
If the paper is really short, I'd just go straight to the Bible, with a focus on exegesis.
Hi abondservant,
I have been thinking and prayed for you. I found this quote on Logos twitter. Hope this will help you on your research paper.
“It is not the strength of your faith but the object of your faith that actually saves you.” ―Timothy Keller
Here are few more quotes.
"because he hath provided an atonement and complete righteousness; how well furnished to take the charge of bringing sinners to a state of grace and holiness, because he hath the fulness of the Spirit in him, to communicate to men, in order to renew their natures, and fit them for heaven." Isaac Watts
" 'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home." John Newton
Thank you all for the scriptures, resources and ideas for direction for the paper. I know its a complicated and often times hot button issue. I'll definitely be picking up a number of these books, and using as many of the quotes as I can. That democrat line made me laugh george
This resource isn't in Logos (yet), but may be interesting: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00GM3WQZ6/
Linked to from a Kevin DeYoung blog post: Antinomianism: It's Bigger Than You Think
Ok, here's a little advice: Define the word, look at the Scriptures where the word is used in different senses and after you've checked all the evidence, then draw only those conclusions that are warranted by the evidence and not by your own "theological inclinations." A lot of people tend to do that and are like: "Well, this is what the evidence shows 'X' but this is 'Y' what I've believed for so long" and pretty much ignored the evidence and continue to stick to what they believe thinking it's a correct view, when in reality is not (e.g. look at all the different religious groups around us, how many think their view is the "right one"?).
Hebrews 12:14, "Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord." If it's already a given, why pursue it?
Hebrews 5:9, "And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him." Seems like obedience is necessary, isn't it?
Which brings me to this other quote posted earlier that seems to summarize it in a great way:
James 2:24, "You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only." And v. 26, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." Which works? The ones that God has prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10) and when we do that, it helps us to be holy/sanctified as he is holy/sanctified (1 Peter 1:16). No works of righteousness which we do ourselves (attitude) are need, because they don't help us at all (Titus 3:5).
Paul was saved by grace, yet he had to arise and be baptized, calling on the name of the Lord; because he was not disobedient to the call. By doing so God worked through him and that's why he was even able to say, "I have labored more than they (the other apostles) have," and also say, "Be imitators of me as I am of Christ."
Best wishes on your research!
This resource isn't in Logos (yet), but may be interesting: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00GM3WQZ6/ Linked to from a Kevin DeYoung blog post: Antinomianism: It's Bigger Than You Think
You should list these in a new SUGGESTIONS topic thread.
Did you finish your paper? Any chance you'd be willing to share? [:D]
Dallas Willard: Once we learn that grace is not opposed to effort (action)—though it is opposed to earning (attitude)—the way is open for us to “work out” all that is involved in our salvation, not only “with fear and trembling” but also with the calm assurance that it is God who is at work in us to accomplish all of His goodwill (see Philippians 2:12–13).
Dallas Willard:
