Lesson 4: Consecrated to God

Consecrated to God

This lesson explores the essential Christian concept of sanctification, derived from the Greek word hagiazo, meaning "to make holy" or "to set apart for a special purpose." You will learn that being "Consecrated to God" involves both your established position before Him and your ongoing lifestyle. We begin by clarifying that all Christians are already "sanctified in Christ Jesus" and are appropriately called "saints" because they have been set apart as God's holy people. This section emphasizes that sanctification is not reserved for a "perfect" few but is the shared standing of everyone who belongs to God.

We further examine the progress of sanctification as an ongoing, lifelong journey. While you are sanctified at conversion, you are also commanded to "pursue holiness" and "perfect holiness in the fear of God". This section discusses how the internal "inner man" is strengthened daily to reflect God's own holiness in every area of conduct. You will discover that true consecration is a dynamic growth process where you are continuously being transformed to more closely align with the character of God.

Finally, the lesson details the process of sanctification, highlighting it as the collaborative work of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. You will learn how the Holy Spirit acts as the instrumental agent of change, while the Word serves as the "sword" or tool He uses to bring about this holiness. By setting your mind on "the things of the Spirit" revealed in Scripture, you allow the Word to produce spiritual fruit in your life. We conclude by challenging you to take to heart the call to cleanse yourself from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, truly perfecting your consecration to the Lord.