Chapter 13: Of Sanctification

Question 1.

Are they who are effectually called, and regenerated, having a new Spirit created in them, further sanctified, really and personally, through the virtue of Christ's death, and resurrection, by his Word and Spirit dwelling in them?

Yes (1 Corinthians 6:11; Acts 20:32; Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:5-6; John 17:17).

Well then, do not the Antinomians err, who maintain, that those who are justified, are sanctified only, by the imputed holiness of Christ; not by infusing inherent holiness, or any spiritual qualities into them, by the help of which, they are enabled to live holily?

Yes.

By what reasons are they confuted?

(1) Because, the Apostle says, follow peace and holiness with all men, without which no man shall see God (Hebrews 12:14). (2) Because, the fruit of the Spirit, is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, and faith (Galatians 5:22). (3) Because, they who are in Christ, bring forth good fruit (John 15:5). (4) Because, they who belong to Christ, have crucified the flesh with the affections, and lusts (Galatians 5:24-25). (5) Because, the Apostle commands us, to work out our salvation, with fear and with trembling (Philippians 2:12). (6) Because, we ought to purify ourselves, from all filthiness of the flesh, and Spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (2 Corinthians 7:1). (7) Because, we ought to grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). (8) Because, the Lord circumcises the hearts of the elect, that they may love the Lord their God, and takes away the heart of stone (Deuteronomy 30:6; Ezekiel 36:26-27).

Question 2.

Is sanctification imperfect in this life, there being some remnants of corruption abiding in every part?

Yes (1 John 1:10; Romans 7:18, 23; Psalms 3:12).

Well then, do not the Antinomians, and many of the Quakers err, who maintain, that those who are justified, are perfectly sanctified?

Yes.

Do not likewise the Papists, Socinians, and Anabaptists err, who maintain, the same, but differ in the manner?

Yes.

By what reasons are they confuted?

But first consider, that the Antinomians defend, that the most perfect holiness of Christ is imputed to us, and is made ours, there being no inherent holiness in us, nor required of us.

But the Papists, Socinians, Quakers, and Anabaptists affirm, and maintain a perfect inherent holiness, in this life.

They are confuted?

(1) Because, there is no man that sins not (1 Kings 8:46). (2) Because, if we say, we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us (1 John 1:8). (3) Because, in many things, we offend all (James 3:2). (4) Because, there is not a just man upon the earth, that does good, and sins not (Ecclesiastes 7:20). (5) Because, we are all, as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). (6) Because, the Psalmist prays, that GOD would not enter into judgment with him, for in your sight (says he) shall no man be justified (Psalms 143:2). (7) Because, no man can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin (Proverbs 20:9). (8) Because, the Apostle complains heavily, concerning indwelling sin (Romans 7:18, 23). (9) Because, the saints are obliged, to seek pardon of sin every day (Matthew 6:12). (10) Because, the Lord says, he that is holy, let him be holy still (Revelation 22:11).