Chapter 13: Of Sanctification
They who are united to Christ, effectually called, and regenerated, having a new heart and a new spirit created in them through the virtue of Christ’s death and resurrection, are also farther sanctified, really and personally,[1] through the same virtue, by His Word and Spirit dwelling in them;[2] the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed,[3] and the several lusts of it are more and more weakened and mortified,[4] and they more and more quickened and strengthened in all saving graces,[5] to the practice of all true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.[6]
[1] Acts 20:32; Romans 6:5–6
[2] John 17:17; Ephesians 3:16–19; 1 Thessalonians 5:21–23
[3] Romans 6:14
[4] Galatians 5:24
[5] Colossians 1:11
[6] 2 Corinthians 7:1; Hebrews 12:14
This sanctification is throughout the whole man,[7] yet imperfect in this life; there abides still some remnants of corruption in every part,[8] wherefrom arises a continual and irreconcilable war; the flesh lusting against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh.[9]
[7] 1 Thessalonians 5:23
[8] Romans 7:18, 23
[9] Galatians 5:17; 1 Peter 2:11
In which war, although the remaining corruption for a time may much prevail,[10] yet, through the continual supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit of Christ, the regenerate part does overcome;[11] and so the saints grow in grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, pressing after a heavenly life, in evangelical obedience to all the commands which Christ as Head and King, in His Word has prescribed to them.[12]
[10] Romans 7:23
[11] Romans 6:14
[12] Ephesians 4:15–16; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1