Living A Sanctified Christian Life

LIVING A SANCTIFIED CHRISTIAN LIFE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4

"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honour."

Supporting Texts:

Romans 12:1-2, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Hebrews 12:14, Galatians 5:16-17, 2 Timothy 2:21

INTRODUCTION:

Sanctification is the process by which a believer is set apart for God’s purposes, living a life that reflects His holiness. To live a sanctified Christian life means to intentionally separate oneself from sin and to pursue a life of purity, guided by the Holy Spirit. This study explores the significance of sanctification, how believers can live a sanctified life, and the blessings that come from a life dedicated to God.

1. UNDERSTANDING SANCTIFICATION

Sanctification is an essential part of the Christian journey, rooted in God’s call for us to be holy as He is holy.

a) Definition of Sanctification:

Sanctification means being set apart for God, involving both an immediate change at salvation and an ongoing process (1 Corinthians 6:11).

b) Positional Sanctification:

At salvation, we are instantly sanctified by the blood of Jesus, set apart as God’s children (Hebrews 10:10).

c) Progressive Sanctification:

As we grow in Christ, sanctification is a daily process of becoming more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18).

d) Ultimate Sanctification:

In eternity, we will be fully sanctified, free from the presence of sin (1 John 3:2).

e) Holy Spirit’s Role in Sanctification:

The Holy Spirit works within us to convict, cleanse, and empower us to live a holy life (Galatians 5:16).

Biblical Example:

The early church in Acts 2 devoted themselves to a life of holiness, seeking to separate themselves from sin and dedicate themselves to God.

2. PRACTICAL STEPS TO LIVING A SANCTIFIED LIFE

Living a sanctified life requires intentional actions and decisions that align with God’s standards.

a) Renewing the Mind:

Allow God’s Word to transform your thoughts and attitudes (Romans 12:2).

b) Guarding Your Heart and Eyes:

Be mindful of what you consume and avoid anything that can lead to impurity (Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 6:22-23).

c) Maintaining a Life of Prayer:

Prayer strengthens our relationship with God and keeps us focused on Him (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

d) Fleeing from Temptation:

Actively avoid situations that may lead you to sin, relying on God’s grace to resist (1 Corinthians 10:13).

e) Accountability and Fellowship:

Stay connected with other believers who can encourage and help you live a holy life (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Biblical Example:

Joseph demonstrated sanctification when he resisted temptation from Potiphar’s wife and fled from sin (Genesis 39:7-12).

3. BENEFITS OF LIVING A SANCTIFIED LIFE

A sanctified life brings profound blessings and a closer relationship with God.

a) Closer Fellowship with God:

Holiness draws us closer to God and enables us to experience His presence (James 4:8).

b) Increased Spiritual Authority and Power:

Living a holy life strengthens our spiritual authority and effectiveness (Acts 1:8).

c) Freedom from Guilt and Condemnation:

Sanctification helps us live free from the shame and guilt of sin (Romans 8:1).

d) Becoming a Vessel for Honour:

God uses sanctified believers for noble purposes and ministry (2 Timothy 2:21).

e) Testimony to Others:

A sanctified life serves as a witness to others, showing them the beauty of holiness (Matthew 5:16).

Biblical Example:

Daniel lived a sanctified life in Babylon, refusing to defile himself with the king’s food, which served as a powerful testimony to God’s faithfulness (Daniel 1:8).

4. CHALLENGES TO LIVING A SANCTIFIED LIFE

Believers face challenges that can hinder them from living a sanctified life, but these can be overcome with God’s help.

a) Worldly Influence and Pressure:

The values of the world often conflict with God’s standards (1 John 2:15-17).

b) Fleshly Desires and Temptations:

Our sinful nature constantly battles with our spirit, creating a struggle for holiness (Galatians 5:17).

c) Lack of Discipline and Consistency:

Holiness requires daily commitment and discipline (Luke 9:23).

d) Negative Relationships and Influences:

Being surrounded by ungodly influences can weaken our resolve for holiness (1 Corinthians 15:33).

e) Deception of Self-Righteousness:

Believers must remain humble, knowing that sanctification is by God’s grace, not our own works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Biblical Example:

Lot faced the challenge of living in a sinful environment in Sodom, which affected his spiritual strength and family (Genesis 19).

5. DEPENDENCE ON THE HOLY SPIRIT FOR SANCTIFICATION

Sanctification is a supernatural work that requires the enabling power of the Holy Spirit.

a) Acknowledge Your Dependence on the Holy Spirit:

Sanctification is not by our power but by the Spirit’s work within us (Zechariah 4:6).

b) Yield to the Holy Spirit’s Guidance:

Allow the Spirit to guide your decisions and lead you in holiness (Romans 8:14).

c) Continual Infilling of the Spirit:

Regularly seek the Holy Spirit’s infilling for renewed strength and sanctification (Ephesians 5:18).