Chapter 7: Sanctification and the Holy Life

We believe God not only forgives sin but sets the believer apart for himself and makes him holy. Sanctification begins at conversion, grows through life, and is the Spirit’s ongoing work.

“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). “As he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16). Paul prays, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). The Word is the means: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17). The believer is to count himself “dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:11), and to yield his members to righteousness (Romans 6:13).

Where the traditions stand. The Assemblies of God teaches sanctification as both a definite act at conversion and a lifelong process of growth; it does not teach sinless perfection. Wesleyan-Holiness Pentecostals (such as the Church of God and the Pentecostal Holiness Church) teach a distinct second work of grace. The Foursquare Church and Evangelical Baptists emphasize progressive sanctification by the Spirit and the Word. All agree that a holy life is the fruit of true faith (James 2:17-18).

Carry this verse: “Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16).