We believe the Scriptures teach that election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, sanctifies, and saves sinners;[1] that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end;[2] that it is a most glorious display of God’s sovereign goodness;[3] that it utterly excludes boasting, and promotes humility;[4] that it encourages the use of means; that it may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly accept of Christ;[5] that it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence.[6]
[1] 2 Tim. 1:8, 9. But be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel, according to the power of God: who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.
[2] 2 Thess. 2:13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth; whereunto He called you by our Gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
[3] 1 Cor. 4:7. For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? Now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory as if thou hadst not received it? 1 Cor. 1:26–31; Rom. 3:27.
[4] 2 Tim. 2:10. Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 1 Cor. 9:22; Rom. 8:28–30.
[5] 1 Thess. 1:4. Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.
[6] 2 Peter 1:10, 11. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure. Phil. 3:12; Heb. 6:11.
x. sanctification
We believe the Scriptures teach that sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of His holiness;[1] that it is a progressive work;[2] that it is begun in regeneration; that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means—especially the Word of God—self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness and prayer;[3] and in the practice of all godly exercise and duties.[4]
[1] 1 Thess. 4:3. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification. 1 Thess. 5:23. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly. 2 Cor. 7:1; 13:9; Eph. 1:4.