2 Timothy 3:16

Clement of Alexandria (c. 195)  — “He who obeys the Lord and follows the prophecy given through Him is made holy.” Sanctification as obedience shaped by revelation. Origen (c. 230)  — “The soul is sanctified when it cleaves to God in purity.” Holiness as Godward attachment. Athanasius (c. 350)  — “The Word became man that He might sanctify humanity in Himself.” Union with Christ as the fountain of sanctification. Basil the Great (c. 360)  — “The Spirit makes us like God throu

What is Sanctification? Can you remember the definite beginning to sanctification that occurred when you became a Christian? Did you sense a clear break from the ruling power and love of sin in your life? Do you really believe that you are even now dead to the ruling power and love of sin in your life? As you look back over the last few years of your Christian life what are some things that you used to delight in which no longer interest you? What are some things that you use

Irenaeus (c. 180)  — “Through the Spirit we are made new, that we may live in God.” Regeneration as the Spirit’s recreating work. Tertullian (c. 200)  — “We little fishes, after the example of our great Fish, Jesus Christ, are born in water.” Emphasizes new birth imagery tied to spiritual renewal. Origen (c. 230)  — “The soul is renewed by the Spirit unto a new life.” Regeneration as inner transformation. Athanasius (c. 318)  — “He became what we are, that He might make us wh