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Sanctification

Sanctification: Growing to Be More Like Jesus Each Day

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Sanctification is an essential part of the Christian journey. It transforms us to be more like Jesus and deepens our relationship with God. This process is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey where we grow in faith and character. It calls us to willingly follow God’s teachings and the Holy Spirit’s guidance every day.

At the heart of sanctification is the idea of becoming more Christlike. God’s Word is a key part of this journey, offering lessons and guidance that shape our actions. Alongside scripture, the Holy Spirit works within us, helping us make choices that reflect Jesus’ love and wisdom. As we nurture our faith, these changes become evident in our daily lives.

This journey involves commitment and patience as we face life’s challenges. Yet each step brings us closer to living in a way that honors God and aligns with His purpose. Embracing sanctification means embracing growth, understanding that each day is an opportunity to become more like Christ.

Understanding Sanctification: A Lifelong Journey

Sanctification unfolds as a journey where believers become more like Jesus. Rooted in the Bible, sanctification is the process by which God molds our character. The Bible describes it as essential for Christians. Key scriptures like 1 Thessalonians 4:3 and 5:23 highlight that God desires for us to be set apart for His purpose, growing in holiness through His Spirit. This personal transformation aligns us with Christ’s teachings, emphasizing its foundational role in our faith journey.

What sets sanctification apart is its ongoing nature. Unlike a single act like salvation, sanctification involves lifelong spiritual growth. It is about continually surrendering to Christ, allowing His Word to shape and refine our attitudes and actions. Every day provides opportunities to reflect Christ’s love and righteousness in how we live and interact with others. This growth helps us become better versions of ourselves, reflecting more of Jesus in our daily lives.

Yielding to God’s Word and the Holy Spirit is pivotal in this journey. The Bible acts as a guide, offering wisdom and teachings that direct us toward holiness. It serves as a constant reminder of God’s promises and expectations for His followers. Meanwhile, the Holy Spirit empowers us, giving us strength to overcome temptations and guiding our decisions. Together, these elements work in harmony, pointing us toward a life dedicated to living like Jesus.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification

The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in sanctification, guiding believers each step of the way. As Christians, we rely on the Holy Spirit to lead us, helping us understand God’s will and make decisions that align with it. Through prayer and reflection, the Holy Spirit provides insights and encourages growth, ensuring we stay on the right path in our spiritual journey.

The Holy Spirit also empowers us to conquer sin. As we face temptations and challenges, the Spirit offers strength and conviction to make the right choices. This empowerment is crucial in breaking free from destructive habits and adopting new, Christ-centered behaviors. The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives brings about change that might otherwise seem impossible, helping us grow closer to God.

A sign of sanctification is the development of spiritual fruits in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23 lists these fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As we mature in our faith, these qualities become more evident in our actions and words. They reflect the inner work the Holy Spirit is doing, showcasing the transformation that comes from drawing closer to God. For believers, these fruits are not only benchmarks but blessings that guide us in nurturing relationships and serving others.

Practical Steps to Grow in Christlikeness

Growing to be more like Jesus involves practical steps that we can take each day. Here are a few ways to foster sanctification:

1. Prayer: Talking to God through prayer strengthens our relationship with Him. It allows us to share our hearts and listen for His guidance. Make time each day for prayer, whether in the morning, during a break, or before bed.

2. Bible Study: God’s Word is essential for spiritual growth. By studying the Bible, we learn more about God’s will and how we can live in ways that please Him. Joining a Bible study group or setting a daily reading plan can help deepen your understanding.

3. Worship and Praise: Worshiping God through songs and praise helps us focus on His greatness and love. It draws us closer to Him and reminds us of His presence in our lives.

4. Community Involvement: Being part of a community or fellowship group can provide support and encouragement. Sharing your journey with other believers helps you learn and grow together.

5. Service: Volunteering and serving others in love and kindness reflect Christ’s teachings. It helps us practice His love in action and witness that love to others.

These activities help us commit to a God-centered life every day. They are not just tasks but ways to bring Jesus into our thoughts, actions, and behaviors.

Overcoming Challenges in the Path to Sanctification

As we walk the path of sanctification, challenges are inevitable. Recognizing these common obstacles can help us prepare and persevere:

1. Temptation and Sin: It can be tough to turn away from sin, but with prayer and the Holy Spirit’s help, we can find strength. Accountability partners or mentors can offer support.

2. Doubt and Fear: Doubts about faith can be overwhelming. Seek encouragement from Scripture, fellow believers, and prayer to overcome these fears and reinforce your trust in God.

3. Distractions: Our busy lives can pull us away from God. Prioritizing time for spiritual activities and setting routines can keep us focused on our growth in faith.

To overcome these challenges, remember the importance of perseverance and faith. Trust that God is with you every step of the way and lean on Him for strength and guidance. Surround yourself with a supportive community and individuals who will encourage your journey. Their support can be invaluable in times of struggle.

Conclusion: 

Sanctification is a unique journey that transforms our hearts and lives. As we embrace practical steps and tackle obstacles, we draw closer to Christ and reflect His love in our actions. It is not a journey we undertake alone but one where God walks with us, empowering us through His Spirit and Word. Every step we take is an opportunity to become more like Jesus, impacting our lives and those around us.

We invite you to continue your journey of faith by joining us at Love Church. Our community is here to support your growth in Christlikeness and explore the beauty of God’s love together. Whether through worship, study, or Sunday church service, there is a place for you to thrive in your journey of faith.

Christianity

Redemption Through Jesus: What It Means for Us

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In the heart of Christian belief is a powerful idea called redemption. It’s like getting a second chance to start fresh. Because of sin, people lost their way and needed help to reconnect with God. Redemption is that rescue plan, made possible through Jesus Christ. According to the Bible, Jesus came to earth to live a perfect life and take on the wrongs of everyone. This act of love opened the door for us to reunite with God.

Redemption isn’t just about heaven; it also changes our lives right now. When we accept redemption, we get a new identity, free from the past mistakes that held us back. Believers find new strength and purpose, leading to choices that reflect God’s love and promises. This journey invites us to live differently, staying true to the values introduced by Jesus, which influence how we act and treat others every day.

The Concept of Redemption in Christianity

Redemption in Christianity means being saved or freed from sin through Jesus Christ. It’s like getting a clean slate, where God forgives us for the wrong things we’ve done. Because everyone makes mistakes and sins, redemption is necessary for humanity to restore the relationship with God. Without it, we remain separated from Him.

The Bible lays out the foundation for redemption through Jesus. In Romans 5:12-21, it explains how sin entered the world through Adam, but through Jesus, we receive the gift of grace and redemption. Another key scripture is Ephesians 1:7, which says, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” This means that Jesus’ death on the cross was the price paid for our sins, and through His sacrifice, we’re offered forgiveness and a new beginning.

Understanding these biblical truths helps Christians grasp why redemption is central to their faith. It shows God’s immense love and the lengths He went to save humanity. By believing in Jesus, Christians accept this redemption and can start a journey of faith and spiritual growth.

How Jesus Achieved Our Redemption

Jesus’ life was extraordinary, and every part contributed to our redemption. Here’s a timeline of important events:

1. Virgin Birth: Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary, conceived by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18-25).
2. Sinless Life: He lived a perfect life without sin, offering teachings and performing miracles (Hebrews 4:15).
3. Crucifixion: Jesus willingly died on the cross to pay for the sins of all people (John 19:17-30).
4. Resurrection: On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead, proving His power over sin and death (Luke 24:1-6).
5. Ascension: He ascended to Heaven, promising to return again (Acts 1:9-11).

The importance of Jesus’ sinless life cannot be overstated. Without sin, His sacrifice was pure and able to cover all the wrongdoing of humanity. His death was not just a tragedy but a planned act of love. It opened the door for redemption and restored the connection between God and people. Through Jesus, believers are freed from the penalty of sin, making His life and death central to Christian salvation.

Implications of Redemption for Believers

Redemption leads to a fresh identity and purpose in life for believers. When a person accepts Jesus, they become a new creation, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17. This transformation means the old ways of living are gone, and a new path begins. Believers gain a fresh viewpoint, seeing themselves as beloved children of God with a specific mission to follow Christ’s teachings.

Redemption profoundly impacts daily decision-making and living. Knowing they are forgiven and loved propels Christians to live differently. They are encouraged to act with kindness, love, and integrity, reflecting Jesus’ character in their actions. Believers often ask themselves, “What would Jesus do?” when faced with choices. This mindset helps them live a life that honors God.

In essence, redemption encourages believers to live with hope and assurance. They understand their lives have meaning beyond the day-to-day because they are part of God’s bigger story. They embrace a purpose that includes sharing God’s love and grace with others, contributing positively to their communities, and leading by example.

Living Out Redemption Daily

Embracing redemption in daily life involves simple, practical steps. Here are ways believers can live out their redemption:

– Prayer: Start each day with prayer, seeking guidance and strength to follow God’s path.
– Bible Reading: Spend time reading the Bible to discover God’s will and understand His promises.
– Community: Join a church community to build relationships and grow in faith together.
– Service: Volunteer to serve others, reflecting God’s love through actions.
– Encouragement: Offer encouragement and support to friends and those in need.

Spiritual practices also play a key role in nurturing a redeemed lifestyle. Regular worship and meditation on God’s Word help believers stay connected to their faith. Participating in small groups or Bible studies provides support and accountability. By practicing gratitude, believers can focus on God’s blessings, enhancing their spiritual growth. Encouraging others to embrace these practices strengthens their own commitment to living out redemption daily.

Conclusion

Redemption is the cornerstone of Christian faith, offering new beginnings and hope. It’s a powerful gift from Jesus, reshaping lives with purpose and possibility. Understanding redemption motivates believers to walk in faith, aligning their lives with God’s will. As redemption unfolds in everyday actions, it becomes a solid foundation for a meaningful and loving life.

To experience the richness of redemption and grow in your spiritual journey, consider connecting with a supportive community. At Love Church, a church in Gainesville, we welcome you to join us in discovering more about faith, purpose, and living a life filled with love and hope. Embrace the opportunity to deepen your understanding of redemption and its influence on your life.

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Who’s Gonna Tell Them?

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Growing up, Juneteenth wasn’t something that my family and I readily celebrated. In all honesty, I think we were ignorant to a pretty significant fact in American History, more specifically African American History. After President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation (1863) freeing slaves, there was still a portion of slaves in the Confederate South who had not yet received word but, even if they had, wouldn’t have been legally able to apply such proclamation to their lives. It wasn’t until after the Union won the Civil War (1865) did this proclamation apply, legally, to EVERY slave. This proclamation no doubt held in its sub-text very strong socio-economic implications for the Confederacy at that time and the enforcement of that proclamation would have only come from the Union army. Imagine the tension, as word and enforcement finally made it to Texas.

From the mouth of General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, came to those slaves probably one of the most life changing moments. The proclamation they had been longing for. The legal separation from racially and economically motivated violent oppression. While those slave states which made up the confederacy held on to their principles for more than a hundred years after this proclamation, its historical significance is what we celebrate.

In observance of Juneteenth, I applaud those who were bold enough to stand for freedom in the face of adversity. I also recognize the insidious nature of sin to keep people bound. Time plays a huge part in this historical narrative. I see it in the limited but growing authority of President Lincoln, and the lack of submission and slothfulness to that authority by the confederate states. I see it in our current sociopolitical climate. The old saying goes: “Time heals all wounds.” To that I add, “Time also reveals all wounds.” As we progress, it becomes important that we observe our history so that we don’t repeat the same mistakes.

Time has taught me this. Restoration begins with equality. You cannot restore what you think less of. The cross levels the playing field for all people.

Time has taught me this. Restoration begins with equality. You cannot restore what you think less of. The cross levels the playing field for ALL PEOPLE. While we are equal at the foot of the cross, the process of working out that freedom will be relative to the person. Jesus came from heaven and put on human form to identify with humanity. Then, set us free by living a perfect life. Then, dying on the cross and being raised from dead with power over sin and death. His plan for all humanity all along was to restore us back to God. He accomplished that plan from the inside out. Similarly, the Emancipation began the tedious work of restoring humanity to African Americans.

Now, take a deep breath because I’m coming down your lane.

“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation.” – Romans 5:6-9 

As I was thinking about Juneteenth, our ignorance of it, and the correlation to power of the gospel, I kept coming back to this question: Why didn’t someone tell me earlier?

Here we are some 2000 years after the cross. After precedent and legislation in heaven has been set by the blood of Jesus to free us from sin, and there are some who are still ignorant to the violent oppression and bondage of sin. We, my Christian brothers and sisters, have people in our community who are still ignorant to the power of the gospel, simply because YOU haven’t told them. For what? I think we’ve lost the fervor and boldness to share the gospel because we have become too comfortable and are concerned with our own freedom. Too comfortable. Too comfortable with occasionally posting a scripture on social media as a means of evangelism. Too comfortable with the pastor being the one who wins souls. Too comfortable with criticizing our churches but not investing time or money in the success of it. Snap out of it saints, that comfort is making you lazy. You, having been made free, have an accountability to this freedom declaration.

According to Matthew 28, Jesus commanded the eleven disciples to now “go and make” disciples. This is what should encourage you. As stated by Roger Connor in his book, General Gordon Granger, General Granger was known for, “his strict attention to all the details of making a well-disciplined body of soldiers out of a mass of awkward men from every walk of life.” This well-disciplined man, although not infamous in comparison, was the man that carried a message that generationally changed lives. General Granger is now celebrated for his seemingly mundane execution of his duties.

Isaiah 61:1 says it like this: “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.”

Now we, like the disciples, have the opportunity having been taught the faith to carry this life changing message of emancipation to the oppressed because we’ve been equipped for it!

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Hydrate

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I have two siblings, one of whom has lived in the UK for almost 5 years now. He and his wife moved there so they could travel, and they did a fantastic job of it. They hopped around Europe for years, spending all their free time in France, Italy, and Spain along with dozens of other places. Then, the UK went into lockdown, and they’ve spent the last year in their little London flat praying for opportunities to travel; but the lockdowns kept piling up. They’re moving back to the States this week, and though they’re excited to be closer to family, they are grieving a year of life that was taken from them.

I think that’s how a lot of us are feeling right now. We’re grieving all of the things we’ve lost; things like rights of passage, time with friends and family, and loved ones who have passed away. We are exhausted by uncertainty. We are all dried up.

I’m reminded of the vision God gave Ezekiel:

1“The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. 2 He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” -Ezekiel 37:1-3 (NIV)

The truth is that God is making things new in our lives, even in the desert. What we need to do is hydrate.

We are a thirsty species. In fact, humans are made up of about 60% water. I looked it up, and as a female adult, I should be taking in at least 11.5 cups of water a day. That’s a lot of water, y’all! We can only survive a few days without water.

But this thirst goes beyond our physical needs; we are thirsty spiritually as well. We thirst for love, purpose and, among other things, to feel in control. So when we’re suddenly uprooted and ripped from our normal way of being, we feel lost or forgotten. It’s like we are wandering around the desert searching for the life we once had. We don’t know which snakes are poisonous or not, but we’re pretty sure that the scorpion staring us down isn’t our friend. Either way, we’re parched.

But Isaiah 43:19 (ESV) says this, “Behold, I (God) am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

God longs to bring us life and make things new! But notice God doesn’t say he will take us OUT of the desert. Instead, He meets us right where we are: in the desert, in the dust, at our pile of bones, and turns those bones into flesh. He gives us water that can quench our deepest thirsts:

“Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’” -John 4:13-14

The truth is that God is making things new in our lives, even in the desert. What we need to do is hydrate. Lean into Jesus through prayer, study the scriptures, dive deep into His love. Choose to rely on God for everything you need, and your cup will overflow with faith, hope and love.

“And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” -Isaiah 58:11(ESV)

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Keep it Holy

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Living biblically is living holy. The truth of the gospel demands spiritual submission. PERIOD. Yikes! There’s no easy way to say, read, or write that, but now that I’ve gotten that out of the way…

One reason I believe we struggle with the truth of holiness is this: God is perfect, and we aren’t. First off, holiness isn’t acquired by a litany of good works, but it is freely attributed to us because of the perfect sacrifice of Jesus and the blood He shed on the cross. That sacrifice not only covers us but presents us pure and holy (set apart) before God the Father. Therefore, holiness is not subject to, or a result of, your opinion or emotions. By definition, to be holy is to be consecrated unto God. Putting to death our sinful nature requires recognition of causal effect.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

Romans 12:1 NKJV

Holiness isn’t about our perfection, it’s about submission to His perfection.

Not only was the sacrifice of Jesus great, but it was complete and necessary to redeem us from our fallen and sinful state. And, if we receive salvation by faith through grace, then we live holy by that same grace. I like to think of it like this: Grace covers the gap. Here’s what I mean. Even in the middle of my sin, which caused separation from me and a holy God, His grace, freely applied, actively fights for me to have communion with God because and through the blood of Jesus. Knowing that, His perfect sacrifice begins to take on a more impactful and practical form and inspires us to present ourselves as an offering to God as well. Holiness isn’t about our perfection, it’s about submission to His perfection. This is the part that keeps us humble. How much are we willing to give over to the Lordship of Christ? Is my sin — my broken patterns of thinking — more valuable to me than uninterrupted communion with my Heavenly Father? Holiness in every essence of the word will make you feel unworthy, and that’s ok because you are. We all are. You’ll begin to realize that the only reason that you are presented holy before God is not because of anything you’ve done or try to do, but because of what Jesus has done. Simply put, the death He died in your stead is what makes you holy.

Pastor Josh in the “How To Be A Christian” series put it like this:

If you underestimate the holiness of God, you will underestimate the severity and consequence of your sin.

If you underestimate the consequence of your sin, you will never understand why Jesus had to come.

If you don’t understand why Jesus had to come, you will never fully understand the finished and complete work of the cross.

If you don’t understand the finished and complete work of the cross, you will never understand the magnitude of your forgiveness.

If you don’t understand the magnitude of your forgiveness, you will never be fully passionate about Jesus.

When you are fully passionate about Jesus, you will pursue a life of holiness.

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.”

Titus 2:11-14 NKJV

The things listed above — the grace of God, salvation, and redemption — are all received by faith. In addition, denying ungodliness and worldly lust requires the grace of God to empower us to do it. When we are convicted of sin it doesn’t always feel good, but it is good. Conviction of sin is a sign that the gospel is working in you and at some point, or many points, our character becomes a better reflection of the character of Christ. If you haven’t caught it yet- Jesus is the beginning, middle, and end of this equation. Because of love, He came to earth. Because of love, He gave His life for us. Because of love, He conquered death, hell, and the grave and now presents us as righteous and holy before God the Father. And because of love, we offer our lives back to Him as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable.

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