Whatever happened to sanctification?

I am a strong supporter of knowing the truth of God and believing it. Evangelical churches encourage members to know what they believe. That Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose from the grave is foundational. I believe it but does it make a difference in my life?

It seems that we have reached a point where having the right doctrinal position is all there is to the Christian faith. Justification is a wonderful doctrine which requires understanding the Gospel. God justifies me based on Jesus’ payment for my sins. God sees me as if He is looking at His Son. That truth is hard to grasp but I am thankful for it.

That is good news but that is only the beginning. Justification is the beginning of a life in Christ. Sanctification must follow. Romans 12:1 declares that I am to present my body as a living sacrifice which is my spiritual worship. God not only wants me to place my faith in the truth, He wants me to live what I believe. The older I get the more I want that for myself and for every believer.

I fear too many churches regularly proclaim the Gospel of justification but not sanctification. Justification without sanctification is life insurance, covering oneself against going to hell. Justification with sanctification is experiencing heaven on earth. According to Warren Wiersbe, In the Christian life, doctrine and duty always go together. What we believe helps to determine how we behave. It is not enough for us to understand Paul’s doctrinal explanations. We must translate our learning into living and show by our daily lives that we trust God’s Word.

I want to know as much theology as I can. I want to know about God. But, most importantly, I want to know God. I want not only a relationship as His child but to be in fellowship with Him as my loving Father. Hear the words of Jesus, John 14:21, Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.

A Christian is called not only to know the truth but to live it empowered by the Holy Spirit. Romans 12:1-8 is the beginning of a powerful section on sanctification. I encourage you to take time to study the lesson at www.crimsonministries.org under the Books of the Bible tab. Salvation is composed not only of justification but sanctification followed by glorification. Even so Lord, come quickly.