Doctrine of Sanctification

Arthur Pink's systematic treatment of sanctification emerged from his decades of pastoral writing and biblical exposition, addressing widespread confusion in mid-twentieth-century evangelicalism about the nature and process of Christian holiness. Writing primarily through his monthly magazine "Studies in the Scriptures," Pink observed that many believers either presumed sanctification was automatic or despaired that it was impossible, lacking a clear biblical framework for understanding progressive holiness.

Pink argues that sanctification is both a definitive act of God at conversion and a progressive work that continues throughout the Christian life. He carefully distinguishes between justification and sanctification while showing their inseparable connection, emphasizing that sanctification flows from union with Christ rather than human effort alone. The work examines the roles of divine sovereignty and human responsibility in sanctification, arguing that believers must actively pursue holiness while depending entirely on God's enabling grace. Pink traces the means of sanctification through Scripture reading, prayer, and the ordinary means of grace, while warning against both antinomian passivity and legalistic self-effort. He addresses practical questions about the believer's relationship to sin, the possibility of sinless perfection, and the proper understanding of spiritual growth.

This work has remained influential within Reformed circles for its rigorous biblical exegesis and balanced approach to a doctrine often marked by extremes. Pink's emphasis on both the supernatural character of sanctification and the believer's active participation offers a framework that avoids both perfectionist overconfidence and antinomian resignation. Who should read this: pastors and serious students of Reformed theology seeking a comprehensive biblical treatment of sanctification, particularly those ministering to believers struggling with either spiritual complacency or performance-based Christianity. This is not suitable for new believers seeking simple devotional reading or those looking for practical steps without theological foundation.