He Sanctifies

“Preach the Gospel at all times; and if necessary use words” –St. Francis of Assisi

This sermon explains how the Holy Spirit carries out the lifelong work of sanctification in believers. Though we are made positionally holy the moment we trust in Christ, the Spirit then begins transforming our character, conduct, and choices to make us practically holy—more like Jesus. Using military basic training as an analogy, the pastor describes the Spirit as a training instructor who takes us as we are and develops us into what we can become in Christ. This process calls for our surrender and cooperation, as we remember our identity as God’s children, reflect carefully when facing temptation, and rely on the Spirit’s strength to choose righteousness over the desires of the flesh.