Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ (Short Studies in Biblical Theology)

“This short but careful, compelling, and comprehensive study accomplishes a great deal, exposing the reason for conflicting views about sanctification, examining the biblical terminology in context, and tracing the way the theme develops as God’s purpose for humanity is progressively disclosed in Scripture. Marny Köstenberger writes with great clarity, showing how a biblical-theological approach to this topic is both necessary and empowering for those who would lead a godly life.”

“This book skillfully summarizes the whole Bible’s witness to a highly important doctrine and practical life reality. While readers may differ on particulars, the author builds on the compelling thesis: ‘Anyone desiring to grasp God’s work in, and call to, sanctification . . . must first come to terms with the glorious, matchless, and undefiled holiness of God.’ Study this book for help in understanding how God’s holiness pours into and out from the lives of his people through faith in Christ and the Spirit’s work.”

“The reality that God not only desires but is also at work to accomplish the sanctification of his people cannot be missed in the Bible. But why? And how? And when? In this short but significant book, Marny Köstenberger capably leads readers through Old Testament history, the first coming of the Holy One and his teaching on what holiness of heart looks like, and to the epistles of Paul and Peter and James, which press in the urgency as well as the Spirit’s sufficiency to make God’s people holy.”

“Marny Köstenberger ably traces the biblical story of the holy God who graciously sanctifies his people for his praise. Sanctification comes at God’s initiative, continues by God’s power, and culminates in God’s glorious presence. Köstenberger explains how positional sanctification empowers believers’ progressive growth in holiness through participation in Christ, propelling us toward moral excellence, missional community, and meaningful relationships. I warmly recommend this book!”

“In this informative study, Marny Köstenberger provides an accessible introduction to the important, but often neglected, biblical concept of sanctification. Through a careful analysis of the books of the New Testament, this study offers an engaging exposition of how Jesus Christ bestows on his followers a holy status (positional sanctification) and empowers them to grow in holiness (progressive sanctification). Köstenberger’s discussion is especially helpful in addressing the practical implications of holiness for everyday life.”

“In this comprehensive yet concise treatment of sanctification, Marny Kӧstenberger masterfully handles the Scriptures to demonstrate that God’s call to holiness is clearly presented from Genesis to Revelation. Through careful historical, literary, and theological study, each page unpacks compelling truths that are essential for the individual and corporate Christian life as we await the return of Christ. Kӧstenberger reminds us that sanctification is not an end in itself; it is given by grace through faith to empower Christ followers to go to the nations. Her thoughtful applications are timeless, making this an essential resource for disciple makers in every cultural context around the world.”

“How is it that, throughout history, God takes fallen and broken individuals and makes them into a holy people set apart for himself? Marny Köstenberger takes us on a journey through the Scriptures, exploring both the language and the process of what theologians call the ‘doctrine of sanctification.’ Characterized by thorough research, this summarization of the author’s longtime study and love for the subject examines how and in what contexts God seeks to sanctify or ‘holify’ us, setting us apart for himself and his purposes in this life and the life to come. I am confident that this volume will be a welcome and worthy addition to the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series.”