Sanctified by Truth

In John 17:17 Jesus asked the Father to “Sanctify them in the truth.  Your word is truth.”  What is called “truth” in Romans 1:18 is “that which is known about God” in the next verse.  Therefore, what God’s word reveals about Him is what sanctifies the Christian.  To be sanctified is to be set apart from sin for God.  Knowledge of God does this.  This is the knowledge that is necessary to salvation.  God’s word alone provides us this knowledge.  We really know the truth of His word and are able to communicate it effectively to others, only when it sanctifies us.  We must experience the transforming power of truth to know it.  Thomas Manton’s thoughts on this are very helpful: “God’s way of working is by light; in giving us this saving knowledge, He begins with the understanding.  He deals with us as rational creatures.  Therefore He not only teaches, but draws and sancifies the heart by enlightening the mind.  As the rising sun dispels darkness, saving light dispels ignorance and lusts.  This is the way spiritual life begins.  If our minds are enlightened, our hearts will embrace the ways of God.”  I will continues with this tomorrow.