Sanctification Defined: A work of God in man that makes us more and more free from sin and more like Christ in our lives. A term that’s closely related and sometimes used synonymously with the word holiness.   Key Idea: We can be encouraged that God is changing our hearts and lives to be more like Christ through the process of sanctification.   Four Encouraging Aspects of Sanctification I. The character of sanctification (v. 23) II. The Creator of sanctification (v. 23) III. The comprehensiveness of sanctification (v. 23) IV. The confidence for sanctification (v. 24)

Due to technical difficulties the first few minutes of this message are unavailable.   Key Idea: We are encouraged to cultivate hearts that receive godly words for the sake of our Christ-likeness.

Key Idea: 3 habitual action you make in your heart to obey God’s will I. Rejoice always (v. 16) II. Pray without ceasing (v. 17) III. Give thanks in all circumstances (v. 18)

Key Idea: The gospel allows us to love in the most difficult situations with the most difficult situations with the most difficult people.

Key Idea: The church should cultivate a culture of love and respect for its leaders.

Key Idea: The Day of the Lord challenges believers to live with hope in the present.

Key Idea: We have an eternal hope in the future that allows us to live steadfast and faithful lives in the present.

I. Realize the Christian’s View of Death is different than an unbeliever’s (v. 13) II. Realize the Christian’s Death is transformed by Christ’s Death (v. 14) III. Realize the hope in a Christian’s Death (v. 15)

Key Idea: Living distinct lives that please God requires focused and purposeful love for others. Four priorities as a way of loving others: I. Godly Discontentment: Increase in Love II. Quite Ambition: Lead a Quiet Life III. Worry About Yourself: Mind Your Own Business IV. Work Diligently: Work with Your Hands