We believe the Scriptures teach that sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of His holiness;[1] that it is a progressive work;[2] that it is begun in regeneration; that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means--especially the Word of God--self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness and prayer;[3] and in the practice of all godly exercise and duties.[4]
[1] 1 Thess. 4:3. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification. 1 Thess. 5:23. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly. 2 Cor. 7:1; 13:9; Eph. 1:4.
[2] Prov. 4:18. The path of the just is as the shining light, which shineth more and more, unto the perfect day.
[3] Phil. 2:12, 13. Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Eph. 4:11, 12; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18; 2 Cor. 13:5; Luke 11:35; 9:23; Matt. 26:41; Eph. 6:18, 4:30.
[4] 1 Tim. 4:7. Exercise thyself unto godliness.
We believe the Scriptures teach that such as are truly regenerate, being born of the Spirit, will not utterly fall away and perish, but will endure unto the end;[1] that their preservering attachment from Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors;[2] that a special Providence watches over their welfare;[3] and that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.[4]
[1] John 8:31. Then said Jesus, If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed. 1 John 2:27, 28.
[2] 1 John 2:19. They went out from us, but they were not of us: for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out that it might be made manifest that they were not all of us.
[3] Rom. 8:28. And we know that all things work together for good unto them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Matt. 6:30-33; Jer. 32:40.
[4] Phil. 1:6. He who hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Phil. 2:12, 13.
We believe the Scriptures teach that the law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of his moral government;[1] that it is holy, just, and good;[2] and that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts arises entirely from their sinful nature;[3] to deliver them from which, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the holy law, is one great end of the Gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible church.[4]