Debate and Polemic, Within and Without the “High Orthodox”

I didn’t grow up Reformed, and so some of the distinctions that are made in and among Reformed churches are difficult for me to contextualize. This section is somewhat long, but it moves quickly, and I found it very helpful in sorting out “what all the discussions were about” during the Reformed “High Orthodox” period …

J.C. Ryle on Justification and Sanctification: A Response to Pastor Phelps

Back in December 2012, Pastor Tony Phelps briefly discussed (here) a quote by J.C. Ryle, commenting on Luke 7:35-50, that he claims supports the idea that justification has “priority…in our sanctification.” Now, I’m not sure what he means by this, but given the quote I suppose he means something like this: Sanctification is the result …

Robert Traill on Justification and Sanctification

Below is the text of Robert Traill’s (1642-1716) sermon on 1 Peter 1:1-3 as quoted by J.C. Ryle in his book Holiness. Its precision and conciseness on the relationship between justification and sanctification is remarkable. His view on sanctification as “infused holiness” and as necessary for eternal life is, to my knowledge, the classic Reformed …

Effort in Sanctification? What Says Westminster?

“Justification is monergistic.  Sanctification is synergistic.”  Perhaps you’ve heard that explanation of the relationship between justification and sanctification.  What do you think of it?  At first and for a long time, I found it helpful.  I first heard it from RC Sproul (full disclosure:  I love RC Sproul.  I’m Reformed today – and a pastor …