Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

200 | Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

Some of the Ways in Which Christians Disagree about Sanctification Rev. Terry G. Cornett I. Two key questions A. The First Question: Can a person be entirely sanctified (completely free from sin), in this present life? 1. Reformed/Baptistic and some Pentecostal theologies say NO. 2. Holiness and some Pentecostal theologies say YES. B. The Second Question: Does the experience of sanctification include a second distinct experience with God, received by grace through faith? What you believe about the first question tends to influence what you believe about the second. 1. If you believe that complete holiness must wait for the transforming event of death or Christ’s return, you hope to grow in holiness but there is no distinct point in this life where it can be achieved. 2. If you believe that complete holiness is attainable, you know it must come through a transforming event (you can’t work your way into holiness). So holiness and Pentecostal-holiness groups say there is a distinct second experience. II. Traditional Reformation teaching A. Sanctification is begun at salvation and continues progressively until glorification. God completely sanctifies us positionally at the moment of salvation, but practical sanctification is worked out in our experience gradually and daily. B. Sin is primarily defined as “falling short of God’s glory.” C. Arguments in favor: 1. Jesus taught us to pray daily, “Forgive us our trespasses” (Matthew 6:12) and added “But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15).