Five Views on Sanctification

Message of the Book

As the tile implies, the book Five Views on Sanctification aims to discuss the different views that Protestants have in regards to an important doctrine of the church - Sanctification. Generally, Protestants recognize the need to draw closer to God and to live a sanctified and holy life. However, the different Protestant groups differ on how to draw closer to God. Some of these differing views are: How sanctification occurs? Is sanctification instantaneous or progressive? Is there a need for a second blessing? What is God’s role and man’s responsibility in sanctification? Is there a cure for spiritual failure?

To attempt to address these questions, Gundry compiles a collection of responses from the views of five scholars representing the Weslyan (Melvin E. Dieter), Reformed (Anthony A. Hoekema), Pentecostal (Stanley M. Horton), Keswick (J. Robertson McQuilkin), and Augustinian-Dispensational (John F. Walvoord). Each contributor provides an overview and introduction to their specific evangelical position and at the same time compare and critique as they response to the other views presented. This is an excellent study as it helps to clarify the essentials as well as the distinctiveness of each position.

The Past – Understanding sanctification

It is agreed upon by all the scholars that sanctification begins at conversion. It begins at the point where the person responds to God and is related to God’s plan of redemption. The only difference in opinion is held by the Pentecostals who even among themselves are divided in their opinion on what it means to be sanctified. The Holiness Pentecostals holds to the belief that original sin is removed and there is a second definite work of the Spirit which sanctifies...

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... is faith, which is to “return to what took place at salvation.” Faith and obedience are keys to spiritual victory as we are called to pursue holiness and be sanctified (Col. 2:11-12).

Conclusion

In conclusion, each scholar contributed to the different Protestant views on sanctification as well as commented on each view which gives us a good understanding. It is apparent that there are more similarities than differences (which are largely due to the interpretation of terms and definitions). Hence, it is important to sieve out what are the essential points in comparison with the distinctive points on the doctrine of sanctification. The task for Christians today is to focus on the present, in our daily walk with God knowing that we can have victory over sin through Christ. And we are to look forward to the future where we will have ultimate perfection in Christ.