Possessed by God: A New Testament Theology of Sanctification and Holiness

In this book Dr David Peterson challenges the common assumption that the New Testament views sanctification as primarily a process. He argues that its emphasis falls upon sanctification as a definitive event, 'God's way of taking possession of us in Christ, setting us apart to belong to him and to fulfil his purpose for us'. Simply to identify sanctification with growth in holiness, he contends, obscures the emphasis and balance of New Testament teaching and creates unrealistic expectations. Throughout Dr Peterson builds his case on the careful exegesis of relevant passages, with a keen eye for the pastoral implications of his findings.

Publisher: IVP
Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9780851115108

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David Peterson was senior research fellow and lecturer in New Testament at Moore Theological College, Sydney, where he still teaches part time. He served as principal of Oak Hill College, London, from 1996 to 2007. His books include Engaging with God, Possessed by God (both IVP) and Hebrews and Perfection (Cambridge University Press).

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This book was paradigm shifting for me. Even though I had often observed that the Bible uses "sanctified" in the past tense I did not know that this is the way it is used the majority of the time in the Bible. Our sanctification is so much more than just our maturation in Christ--there is a huge part of it that has already been accomplished for us at the cross--it is what makes us holy and able to be called "saints." This reality of our new identity in Christ then provides the motivation for holy living, which is also a crucial part of sanctification. This book is a clear call for us to start learning and speaking about sanctification in the way that the Bible actually uses the word--if any of this interests you, this book is a must read! Ashley Baker