Send Biblicaltalks a Text Message This is a spotlight on the Scriptures 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God. Sanctification is a wonderful concept, but often misunderstood. In the Bible, it has different meanings. When referring to Christ, it means He has been made our sanctification, setting us apart for God. For example, Simon Peter mentions that "holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21). Some of these men, like Moses and David, had flawed pasts, but they were considered holy because they were set apart for God. Sanctification for believers is a work of the Holy Spirit. It has three aspects: 1. Positional sanctification: Christ has made us sanctified. We are accepted by God because of Christ's work, not our own. This is perfection in Christ. 2. Practical sanctification: The Holy Spirit works in our lives to make us holy in our daily walk. This will never be perfect as long as we are in our sinful bodies. 3. Total sanctification: This will happen in the future when we are fully conformed to the image of Christ. Both our position and practice will be perfect. Sanctification means being "set apart for God." When someone believes on Christ as Savior, they are set aside for God's use. This is illustrated in the Old Testament with the tabernacle vessels, which were considered holy because they were set apart for God, despite being worn and battered. Likewise, when a person comes to Christ, despite being damaged and abused they are saved and belong to Him. Paul says, "This is the will of God, even your sanctification." Every believer is set aside for God's use, not just preachers or missionaries. Paul also warns against sexual sin, emphasizing that Christians should abstain from it. Sexual sin was not only an issue in Roman times but is still widespread today, even among Christian workers. Beloved listen to me, one cannot live in sin and be used by God. Christians should strive for holiness, recognizing that it is only through Christ that we are acceptable to God. Paul reminds us that we have been sanctified and set apart for God's use. This is a spotlight on the Scriptures Support the show Have a blessed day, and thanks for listening! Visit my website to learn more at https://www.biblicaltalks.com
