REFORMED ARMINIAN VIEW OF THE DOCTRINE OF SANCTIFICATION

This theological perspective combines elements from both Reformed theology and Arminianism, emphasizing God's grace, human responsibility, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life.

The Purpose of Sanctification

For Jacobus Arminius, sanctification is a gracious act of God that purifies the believer. Here are the key points:

1. Definition: Sanctification involves God's work of purifying the believer who is both a sinner and a believer.

2. Process: It includes being cleansed from ignorance, indwelling sin, and sinful desires. The believer is infused with the Spirit of knowledge, righteousness, and holiness.

3. Goal: Sanctification aims to separate the believer from the world's life and make them conformed to God's image.

4. Christian Journey: Arminius likens the Christian life to "a pilgrim's progress", where believers continually grow in holiness [1].

The Two Aspects of Sanctification

Arminius identifies two essential aspects of sanctification:

1. Mortification: This involves putting to death the old sinful nature (the "old man") that lives by the flesh. It's a process of overcoming sinful habits and desires.

2. Quickening: The new nature (the "new man") is revived and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The believer is transformed to live righteously and in conformity with God's will.

Wrestling Between Flesh and Spirit

Arminius vividly describes the struggle between the old and new natures as a wrestling match. This imagery draws from passages like Galatians 5:17, which contrasts the desires of the flesh with those of the Spirit. Ephesians 6:12 also portrays the Christian as wrestling against spiritual forces of evil¹.

Romans 7 and Sanctification

Arminius interprets Romans 7 differently from many of his contemporaries. While most theologians saw this chapter as describing the Christian's battle with sin, Arminius viewed it as depicting the unregenerate person in sin's bondage. This perspective highlights the need for God's sanctifying grace in the believer's life.

Ongoing Process

Arminius emphasizes that sanctification is not completed in a single moment. Instead, it involves gradual growth. Sin weakens day by day, and the inner person is renewed while the outer person perishes. The believer carries the death of Christ within, progressively becoming more like Christ [2].

Contemporary Arminianism

Interestingly, contemporary Arminianism, influenced by John Wesley, often teaches that entire sanctification is both possible and expected for believers. This differs from Arminius' view, which aligns more closely with standard Reformed theology of his time [3].

In summary, the Reformed Arminian view of sanctification underscores God's grace, the believer's active participation, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. It's a journey toward holiness, marked by wrestling, growth, and conformity to God's image. Biblical support for this view can be found in passages like Romans 6, Galatians 5, and Ephesians 4.

THE BIBLICAL DOCTRINE OF FORGIVENESS: A DIVINE CALL TO GRACE AND RECONCILIATION

Introduction:

Forgiveness, a central theme in the Bible, is a divine doctrine that permeates the pages of both the Old and New Testaments. It is a concept deeply rooted in God's nature, reflecting His boundless mercy, compassion, and desire for reconciliation with His creation. Throughout the Scriptures, we find profound teachings and examples that highlight the transformative power of forgiveness and its crucial role in the lives of believers.

1. God's Forgiveness as a Model:

In the beginning, God created everything and made humans in his image. But Adam and Eve disobeyed God and sinned against him. Instead of punishing them harshly, God showed them his love and mercy. He forgave them, gave them clothes, and promised to save them (Genesis 3:21). This was the first example of how God wants us to forgive others, showing that forgiveness is part of who God is.

The Bible says:

Psalms 86:15 (NLT) 15 But you, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

2. Christ's Atonement: The Ultimate Act of Forgiveness:

The ultimate act of forgiving is demonstrated in Jesus Christ's voluntary death on the cross. The whole gospel story is about God's purpose of restoring and forgiving through Christ's sacrifice. Jesus' plea for forgiveness for those who nailed Him (Luke 23:34) shows the divine quality of forgiving, offering grace even when faced with enormous injustice.

The Bible says:

Luke 23:34 (NLT) 34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.

Ephesians 1:7 (NLT) 7 He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.

3. Human Forgiveness: An Imperative for Believers:

One of the core values that the Bible instills in believers is the spirit of forgiveness. Jesus taught His disciples that when they pray, they should ask God to forgive them as they forgive others (Matthew 6:12). This shows how crucial it is for believers to mirror God's forgiveness in their relationships.

The Bible says,

Ephesians 4:32 (NLT) 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

4. Restoration and Healing through Forgiveness:

One of the most powerful and life-changing gifts we can offer is forgiveness. It is not just a theoretical idea, but a practical reality that heals and restores us. The biblical account of Joseph shows us how forgiveness works in action. Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers, but he did not hold a grudge against them. Instead, he forgave them, and as a result, he was able to save his family from famine and restore their relationship (Genesis 50:15-21). This story teaches us that forgiveness is not only a way of letting go of our pain, but also a way of bringing peace and harmony to ourselves and others.

The Bible says.

Genesis 50:19-20 (NLT) 19 But Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.

5. Forgiveness as a Continuous Journey:

As followers of Christ, we are called to forgive repeatedly and persistently, just as God forgives us. Jesus teaches His disciples that they should forgive not only seven times, but seventy times seven, showing the limitless nature of forgiveness. This challenges follower of Christ to develop a forgiving attitude that reflects God's constant mercy towards His people.

The Bible says,

Matthew 18:21-22 (NLT) 21 Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” 22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!

Conclusion:

God's love is so amazing that He wants to restore His broken relationship with us. He forgives us for all our sins and invites us to experience His grace. As His children, we have the privilege and responsibility to share His grace with others, showing them His heart. The Bible is full of stories and teachings that inspire us to forgive as God forgives. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a display of God's power that can change lives and bring peace to the church.

FAFP SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON: "REPENTANCE: THE U-TURN FOR LIFE" | JANUARY 14, 2024

1. What’s Repentance Anyway?

So, back in the day, under the Old Testament rules, people would confess their sins, offer sacrifices, and then—get this—often go right back to their old sinful ways. Like, “Oops, my bad, let’s repeat that sin, shall we?” But then, along came the Gospel, and it was all about doing a 180. Repentance became about turning away from sin and giving God a fist bump. 

2. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Repentance

Bad News: Repentance isn’t just a teary-eyed apology. Nope, not enough. Some folks cry buckets over their sins but then hop right back on the sin train.

Worse News: Doing penance? Nah, that’s not true repentance. It’s like trying to earn brownie points for salvation. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t work.

Ugly Truth: Remember Judas Iscariot and Esau? They were all “Oops, my bad” too, but their hearts stayed stubbornly unrepentant. Tears don’t cut it.

3. The Mind Flip That Changes Everything

Real repentance? It’s like a mental makeover. Imagine this: a kid who initially refuses to clean their room (classic move), but then they’re like, “You know what? Maybe I should.” So they change their mind, grab the broom, and sweep away the mess. That’s repentance in action. 

Why Repent? Because We All Need a U-Turn

Picture this: God’s courtroom. We’re all guilty as charged. Jesus, fresh from His wilderness adventure, steps up and says, “Hey, everyone, turn away from your mess-ups and come hang with me.” Jew, Gentile, alien—doesn’t matter. Repentance is the key to life and salvation. No regrets, just redemption vibes. 

FAFP-CIJ SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON SUMMARY: "PAGPAPASALAMAT SA DIYOS" PART 1 | DECEMBER 10, 2023

Ang Roma 8:1-39 ay isang powerful na kabanata na nagpapahayag ng katotohanan ng pag-ibig at biyaya ng ating Diyos para sa atin na mga anak Niya. Ito ay nagtuturo sa atin na hindi na tayo hinahatulan ng kautusan, kundi pinalaya na tayo ng Espiritu. Ito ay tumitiyak sa atin na walang makapaghihiwalay sa atin sa pag-ibig ng Diyos, kahit kamatayan o pagdurusa man. Ito rin ay naghahamon sa atin na mabuhay ayon sa Espiritu, hindi sa laman, at maging katulad ng larawan ni Cristo.

Ilan sa mga aral na ating matututunan mula sa kabanatang ito ay:

1. Mayroon na tayong bagong pagkakakilanlan kay Cristo. Hindi na tayo tinutukoy ng ating nakaraang mga kasalanan, kabiguan, o kahinaan, kundi ng ating relasyon sa Diyos sa pamamagitan ng pananampalataya kay Jesus. Tayo ay inaaring-ganap, itinuring na mga anak, at pinapaging-banal ng Diyos. Mayroon na tayong bagong layunin, bagong pag-asa, at bagong mana.
   
   
2. Mayroon na tayong bagong kapangyarihan sa pamamagitan ng Holy Spirit. Hindi tayo iniiwan na makipaglaban sa kasalanan na mag-isa, kundi mayroon tayong Banal na Espiritu na naninirahan sa atin, na tumutulong sa atin na mapagtagumpayan ang kasalanan at mamuhay ng may kabanalan Ang Espiritu rin ay namamagitan para sa atin, gumagabay sa atin, at nagpapatotoo sa ating pagiging anak ng Diyos. Ang Espiritu ang katiyakan ng ating kaligtasan at hinaharap na kaluwalhatian.
   
   
3. Mayroon na tayong bagong pananaw sa pagdurusa. Hindi tayo ligtas mula sa mga pagsubok, kapighatian, o pag-uusig sa mundong ito, ngunit mayroon na tayong ibang pananaw sa mga ito. Alam natin na ang Diyos ay gumagawa ng lahat ng bagay para sa ating ikabubuti, at ginagamit Niya ang ating mga pagdurusa upang magbunga ng pagtitiis, mabuting katangian, at pag-asa sa atin. Alam din natin na ang ating kasalukuyang mga pagdurusa ay hindi maikukumpara sa kaluwalhatian na ihahayag sa atin pagdating sa langit..
   
   

Application:

Ang mensahe ng Roma 8:1-39 ay dapat tayong patuloy na mamuhay ayon sa liwanag ng mga katotohanang binabanggit sa talatang ito. 

• Dapat tayong lumakad sa Espiritu, hindi sa laman. 
• Dapat nating itakda ang ating isipan sa mga bagay ng Espiritu, hindi sa mga bagay ng mundo.
• Dapat nating patayin ang mga gawa ng laman, at mabuhay ayon sa patnubay ng Espiritu Santo.
• Dapat din tayong magalak sa ating pag-asa sa darating na kaluwalhatiang naghihintay sa langit, at tiisin ang ating mga pagdurusa nang may mahabang pasensya at pananampalataya. 
• Dapat tayong magtiwala sa pag-ibig ng Diyos para sa atin, at hindi tayo dapat mapapayanig sa ating tiwala sa Kanya.

FAFP SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON | "THE TRIUMPH OF REDEMPTION" | NOV. 26, 2023

The passage of 2 Samuel 11:1–12:31 narrates one of the most tragic episodes in the life of King David, who was described as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). It tells the story of how David committed adultery with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of his loyal soldiers, and then tried to cover up his sin by arranging Uriah's death in battle. The passage also records the confrontation of the prophet Nathan, who rebuked David for his sin and announced the judgment of God upon him and his house. The passage reveals the devastating consequences of sin, the importance of repentance, and the grace of God that restores the broken.

The passage can be divided into four main sections:

- David's temptation and sin (11:1-5)

- David's deception and murder (11:6-27)

- Nathan's rebuke and David's repentance (12:1-15a)

- The death of the child and the birth of Solomon (12:15b-31)

In the first section, David's temptation and sin, the author sets the scene by stating that it was the time when kings go out to battle, but David remained in Jerusalem (11:1). This implies that David was neglecting his duty as the leader of Israel and was indulging in his comfort and leisure. He also failed to guard his eyes and his heart when he saw a beautiful woman bathing on the roof of her house (11:2). Instead of turning away, he inquired about her and found out that she was Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, one of his mighty men (11:3; cf. 23:39). Despite knowing that she was married, he sent for her and slept with her, violating the seventh commandment (Exodus 20:14). He also violated the tenth commandment by coveting his neighbor's wife (Exodus 20:17). The result of his sin was that Bathsheba became pregnant and sent word to David (11:4-5).

In the second section, David's deception and murder, the author shows how David tried to cover up his sin by inviting Uriah back from the battlefield, hoping that he would sleep with his wife and conceal the pregnancy (11:6-13). However, Uriah proved to be more loyal and honorable than David, as he refused to enjoy the comforts of his home while his fellow soldiers were in the field (11:11-13). David then resorted to a more sinister plan, by sending a letter to Joab, his general, instructing him to put Uriah in the front line of the battle and withdraw from him, so that he would be killed by the enemy (11:14-15). Joab obeyed David's order and Uriah was killed, along with some other soldiers (11:16-17). David then tried to justify his action by telling Joab not to be distressed, for the sword devours one as well as another (11:25). He then took Bathsheba as his wife, after she mourned for her husband (11:26-27). The author concludes this section by stating that the thing that David had done displeased the Lord (11:27).

In the third section, Nathan's rebuke and David's repentance, the author introduces Nathan, the prophet of God, who came to David with a parable that exposed his sin (12:1-4). The parable was about a rich man who had many flocks and herds, and a poor man who had only one little ewe lamb that he loved dearly. When a traveler came to the rich man, he spared his own flocks and took the poor man's lamb to prepare for his guest (12:1-4). David was enraged by the injustice of the rich man and pronounced a severe judgment on him, saying that he deserved to die and that he should restore the lamb fourfold (12:5-6). Nathan then applied the parable to David, saying, "You are the man!" (12:7). He reminded David of how God had anointed him as king, delivered him from Saul, given him the house of Israel and Judah, and would have given him more if he had asked (12:7-8). He then accused David of despising the word of the Lord, doing evil in his sight, killing Uriah with the sword of the Ammonites, and taking his wife as his own (12:9-10). He announced the judgment of God upon David, saying that the sword would never depart from his house, that his own wives would be taken by his neighbor, and that his son with Bathsheba would die (12:10-14). David then confessed his sin and said, "I have sinned against the Lord" (12:13). Nathan assured him that the Lord had put away his sin and that he would not die, but that the child would die (12:13-14).

In the fourth section, the death of the child and the birth of Solomon, the author narrates how the child that Bathsheba bore to David became ill and died, despite David's fasting and prayer (12:15-23). He also records how David comforted Bathsheba and slept with her again, and she bore him another son, whom he named Solomon, meaning "peace" (12:24). The author adds that the Lord loved Solomon and sent a message through Nathan, calling him Jedidiah, meaning "beloved of the Lord" (12:25). The author concludes the passage by mentioning David's victory over the Ammonites and his capture of their royal city, Rabbah (12:26-31).

The Cost of Sin

The passage of 2 Samuel 11:1–12:31 is a powerful and sobering account of the fall and restoration of King David. It teaches us several lessons, such as:

- Sin is a serious matter that displeases God and brings devastating consequences, both personally and communally. David's sin affected not only himself and Bathsheba, but also Uriah, Joab, the soldiers, the child, and his whole family. His sin also tarnished his reputation and gave occasion for the enemies of God to blaspheme (12:14).

- Sin is often a result of neglecting our responsibilities and indulging in our desires. David's sin began when he stayed in Jerusalem instead of going to war, and when he saw Bathsheba and desired her. He did not resist the temptation, but acted on it, and then tried to cover it up. He did not consider the consequences of his actions, nor the feelings of others, nor the will of God.

- Sin can be forgiven and restored by God's grace, but it does not erase the consequences. David's sin was forgiven by God when he confessed and repented, but he still had to face the judgment of God and the consequences of his sin. He lost his child, his peace, and his family harmony. He also had to endure the rebellion of his son Absalom, who fulfilled the prophecy of Nathan by sleeping with his concubines in public (16:22).

- Sin can be prevented by walking in the Spirit and guarding our eyes and our hearts. David could have avoided his sin if he had obeyed God's command to go to war, and if he had turned away from Bathsheba when he saw her. He could have also sought God's help and counsel when he was tempted, and he could have been accountable to someone who could rebuke him and correct him. He could have also followed God's plan for marriage, which is one man and one woman for life (Genesis 2:24).

Life Lesson:

The passage of 2 Samuel 11:1–12:31 is a warning and an encouragement for us today. It warns us of the danger and the cost of sin, and it encourages us to seek God's forgiveness and grace when we sin. It also challenges us to walk in the Spirit, to fulfill our duties, to resist temptation, and to honor God in our relationships.

FAFP SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON | "GOD IS FAITHFUL EVEN WHEN WE ARE NOT" | TEXT: 1 SAMUEL 27:1-12 | NOV. 19, 2023

In this passage, we can learn three important points from David's experience in Ziklag. 

First, we can learn that God is faithful to his promises, even when we are faithless. 

David had been anointed as the future king of Israel, but he was still running away from Saul, who wanted to kill him. David lost hope and decided to seek refuge among the Philistines, the enemies of God's people. He lied to Achish, the king of Gath, and pretended to be loyal to him. He even raided some of the towns that belonged to Israel and Judah and killed all the inhabitants. David was acting in a way that was contrary to God's will and his own calling. Yet, God did not abandon him or reject him. God still protected him from Saul and from Achish, and he still had a plan for him to become the king of Israel. God's promises are not dependent on our performance but on his grace and sovereignty.

Second, we can learn that God can use our mistakes for good, but that does not justify our sins. 

David's decision to live among the Philistines was a mistake, and it had negative consequences for him and his men. He had to live a double life, constantly lying and hiding his true identity. He also had to face the wrath of the Amalekites, who attacked Ziklag and took away his wives and children, along with those of his men. David and his men were greatly distressed and some of them even wanted to stone him. However, God used this situation to bring David back to himself and to restore his relationship with his men. God also gave him victory over the Amalekites, and he recovered everything that was taken from him. God can work all things together for good for those who love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). But that does not mean that we can sin freely and expect God to bless us. Sin always has consequences, and it grieves the heart of God. We should repent of our sins and seek God's forgiveness and guidance.

Third, we can learn that God's ways are higher than our ways and that we should trust him even when we do not understand. 

David probably thought that living among the Philistines was the best option for him at that time. He probably reasoned that it was better than being hunted by Saul or living in caves. He probably thought that he could still serve God while being friendly with Achish. He probably did not foresee the problems that would arise from his choice. But God had a different plan for David. God wanted David to rely on him alone, and not on human allies or strategies. God wanted David to be faithful to his covenant with Israel, and not to compromise with the enemies of God. God wanted David to wait for his timing, and not to take matters into his own hands. God's ways are higher than our ways, and his thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). We should trust him even when we do not understand because he knows what is best for us and he will accomplish his purposes for us.

APPLICATION

David's story in this passage is a warning for us not to follow his example of fear, distrust, and deception. 

• He did not trust God to protect him from Saul, so he ran away to the enemy's territory.

• He did not act with integrity and honesty but lied to Achish and pretended to be his ally.

• He did not seek God's will but followed his own plans and schemes. 

As a result, he faced a dilemma of having to fight against his own people or reveal his lies. 

How can we apply these lessons today? 

We can learn to trust God in every situation, even when we are afraid or persecuted. We can learn to be honest and faithful, even when it is hard or risky. We can learn to seek God's guidance and direction, rather than relying on our own wisdom or understanding. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of compromise and deception, and live in a way that pleases God and honors him.

FAFP SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON: HOW TO TRUST GOD IN YOUR TRIALS?

You may be wondering how you can trust God in your trials like Joseph did. You may be facing difficulties or challenges that seem overwhelming or insurmountable. You may be feeling hopeless or helpless, or even angry or bitter. How can you trust God in such situations? Here are some practical steps you can take, based on the story of Joseph in Genesis 41:1-57.

First, acknowledge your situation and your emotions. Don't deny or suppress what you are going through or how you are feeling. Be honest with yourself and with God. Tell him what you are facing and how you are feeling. He knows everything and he cares about you. He can handle your questions and your complaints. He wants you to pour out your heart to him (Psalm 62:8). As David said, "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us" (Psalm 62:8).

Second, remember God's character and promises. Don't let your circumstances or emotions cloud your view of God. Remind yourself of who he is and what he has done for you. He is sovereign, faithful, gracious, and merciful. He loves you and has a plan for you. He has saved you and called you to his purpose. He has promised to never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). He has promised to work all things together for good for those who love him (Romans 8:28). Meditate on his word and his works. Let them fill your mind and heart with hope and confidence. As Paul said, "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39).

Third, surrender your situation and your will to God. Don't try to control or manipulate your situation or your outcome. Don't rely on your own wisdom or strength. Don't resist or rebel against God's will. Instead, submit to him and trust him. Say to him, "Not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42). Give him your situation and your will and let him do what he knows best. He can do more than you can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). As Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23).

Fourth, follow God's guidance and obey his commands. Don't sit back and do nothing or do whatever you want. Don't ignore or disobey God's voice or word. Instead, listen to him and follow him. Do what he tells you to do, even if it doesn't make sense or seems hard. Joseph followed God's guidance and obeyed his commands, even when they led him to slavery, prison, and power. He did not know the outcome, but he trusted God's direction. God will guide you and show you what to do, if you seek him and obey him (Proverbs 3:5-6). As James said, "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" (James 1:22).

Fifth, expect God's blessing and share it with others. Don't lose hope or give up on God's goodness. Don't hoard or hide God's blessing for yourself. Instead, expect him to bless you and use you to bless others. Joseph expected God to bless him and his family, even in the midst of famine. He also shared God's blessing with others, especially his brothers who had wronged him. He forgave them and provided for them. He said to them, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20). God will bless you and use you to bless others, if you trust him and serve him (Matthew 25:21). As Peter said, "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace" (1 Peter 4:10).

These are some steps you can take to trust God in your trials, like Joseph did. It may not be easy or quick, but it will be worth it. God has a purpose for your trials, and he will use them for his glory and your good.