What is (and isn't) Entire Sanctification? // John Wesley

Summary

This video explores the concepts of Christian perfection and entire sanctification, particularly through the lens of John Wesley's teachings. It clarifies misconceptions about perfection, emphasizing that it does not mean freedom from ignorance, mistakes, infirmities, or temptation. Instead, Christian perfection is defined as the freedom to choose not to sin and the liberation from negative thoughts and attitudes. Ultimately, the video underscores the transformative power of God's grace, which enables believers to pursue holiness and embody Christ's love, encouraging viewers to reflect on their spiritual journeys.

Takeaways

• 😀 Christian perfection and entire sanctification can be confusing and often provoke anxiety among believers.
• 📖 John Wesley, an 18th-century priest, emphasized the importance of reconciling scriptural language about perfection.
• ❌ Christian perfection does not mean freedom from ignorance; humans will always have limitations in knowledge.
• 💔 Making mistakes does not preclude one from growing in holiness or having a heart full of love for God.
• 🧠 Infirmities, such as learning disabilities or trauma, do not undermine one's journey towards sanctification.
• ⚖️ Experiencing temptation is a natural part of life; it is the response to temptation that defines sin, not the temptation itself.
• 🔗 Union with Christ grants believers the freedom to resist sin and no longer be slaves to it.
• 💭 Christian perfection involves being free from evil thoughts and harmful attitudes towards others.
• 🌊 God's grace is more powerful than sin, reinforcing the belief in the possibility of entire sanctification.
• 📜 Wesley encourages believers to engage deeply with scripture to understand the nuances of sanctification.

Q & A

What does 'Christian perfection' refer to in the context of Wesleyan theology?

Christian perfection refers to the state of being entirely sanctified, characterized by a heart filled with love for God and others, and freedom from the slavery of sin.

Why do some people find the concepts of entire sanctification and Christian perfection confusing?

Many find these concepts confusing because they suggest a level of perfection that seems unattainable and raises questions about human imperfection and mistakes.

What scriptural references does Wesley use to support the idea of perfection?

Wesley refers to Philippians 3:15, where Paul mentions being 'perfect,' and 1 Thessalonians 5:23, which discusses being sanctified entirely, as well as Matthew 5:48, where Jesus instructs to 'be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect.'

What are the four things that Christian perfection is not, according to Wesley?

1) Freedom from ignorance; 2) Freedom from mistakes; 3) Freedom from infirmity; 4) Freedom from temptation.

How does Wesley define 'infirmity' in relation to Christian perfection?

Infirmity refers to non-moral imperfections, such as learning disabilities or trauma-induced injuries, which do not impede one's spiritual journey towards holiness.

What does Wesley say about making mistakes in the pursuit of holiness?

Wesley acknowledges that making mistakes does not mean one is failing in their relationship with Jesus; a loving heart can still make errors while growing in holiness.

How does Wesley differentiate between temptation and sin?

Wesley teaches that temptation itself is not a sin; rather, it is how individuals respond to temptation that determines whether they sin.

What is the significance of God's grace in the context of entire sanctification?

God's grace is considered more powerful than sin, enabling believers to strive for holiness and experience complete love and sanctification in Christ.

What role does John Wesley play in the discussion of Christian perfection?

John Wesley is a prominent advocate of the doctrine of Christian perfection, articulating its nuances and grounding it in biblical scripture.

What should one do if they want to explore Wesley's views on Christian perfection further?

For a deeper understanding, one can refer to Wesley's sermon on Christian perfection, specifically sermon number 40, which outlines his interpretation and theological stance.