The word sanctify is usually associated with purity or freedom from sin. However, the literal meaning is set apart for a sacred purpose. It is associated with purity when people or objects are set apart for spiritual reasons. Because they are set apart, they are unstained by sin and the world and they are recognized as holy or pure.
Jesus did not envision this as a rare condition. He applied the word sanctify to His disciples when He prayed to His Father. He said, Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is Truth. As You have sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. (Jn. 17:17-19 NKJV)
Observe that being sanctified or set apart occurs when the truth of God’s Word shapes individuals. Jesus perceived it as a good condition—one that helped the disciples influence others positively. Jesus willingly allowed Father God to set Him apart—to sanctify Him. He also prayed for His disciples sanctification.
Originally published January 22, 1993.
Jesus did not envision this as a rare condition. He applied the word sanctify to His disciples when He prayed to His Father. He said, Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is Truth. As You have sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. (Jn. 17:17-19 NKJV)
Observe that being sanctified or set apart occurs when the truth of God’s Word shapes individuals. Jesus perceived it as a good condition—one that helped the disciples influence others positively. Jesus willingly allowed Father God to set Him apart—to sanctify Him. He also prayed for His disciples sanctification.
Originally published January 22, 1993.
Picture: Pink peonies beginning to bloom, viewed from the street, West Fargo, 2009. Photo by Solveig.
No comments:
Post a Comment