Set Apart
I began studying a new book of the Bible today, the book of Luke. I am so fascinated about the life of Jesus Christ and just how he lived his life. I want to take a deep dive into his life, so I have begun reading the books that discuss just that, his life. Well, I decided to start with Luke and in my study time this morning, I learned a couple of things.
1. It is possible to be doing everything right and according to the commands of the Lord and still not have everything you want. Zechariah (let’s call him Zack) and Elizabeth (we’ll call her Lizzie) were righteous in God’s sight, but they had no children. Not having children during this time, in their culture, was a disgrace.
2. Trials and difficulties are not just a result of disobedience. Lizzie couldn’t conceive, which is why they had no children. Zack didn’t even have any mistresses or baby mamas. (A good man lol)
3. God usually allows or brings suffering for two reasons: His glorious purpose and our sanctification
Now, upon reading this, I already had an idea of what sanctification meant but for some reason, I was just itching to dig deeper into the word. So of course, I pulled out my books and got to searching. What I have come to understand and believe is that Building Biblically requires really understanding sanctification.Sanctification is being set apart. It is the process of the believer’s growth in Christ. This process sets us apart from the rest and makes us more and more free from sin and more like Christ in our actual lives. Sanctification can be broken down into different categories. I’ll share 3 with you.
A. Positional sanctification is what all believers accomplish when we accept Jesus Christ as our personal savior.
B. Progressive sanctification is the growth process by which believers seek to become more Christ like in their decisions and lifestyle. Sanctification increases throughout life, so therefore growing in holiness is an ongoing process. Your behavior is the evidence.
C. Ultimate sanctification is the last step. It is perfect holiness. We can only achieve this one when we stand perfect before Christ in glory. This comes much later, like at death.
When you get a chance, check out Luke 1:1-24. I hope this adds value to you; and if it does, share it with someone else