Aug 25, 2024 "Sanctification" (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)

 

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ESV  

 

[23] Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

[24] He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.

 

There's a common misconception of sanctification. Paul makes sure that we understand which God he is referring to when he states the God of peace.  It is the God whom we need to have a relationship with.  

 

Before Jesus went into the desert to be tempted, he was baptized. The Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove and God said this is my son whom I am well pleased.

 

Jesus had a perfect relationship with God and He continued to work at His relationship with God.

 

Although we are sanctified, we still need to work at building our relationship with God. Sanctification requires constant effort.

 

Baptism and repentance are good for us, but it is not enough to be sanctified.

 

Philippians 3:12 ESV

[12] Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.  

 

So, how far should we work at our sanctification. We need to look at Jesus ' life. Jesus lived a life of sacrifice.  

 

John 15:13 ESV

[13] Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.  

 

It might seem too much to do this; however, it is God who will help us.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:24 ESV

[24] He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.

  

Also consider that God gives us hope that allows us to work at our relationship.  

 

Philippians 2:12-13 ESV

[12] Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,

[13] for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

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