by A. W. Pink
In ePub & .mobi & .pdf formats
A.W. Pink’s The Doctrine of Sanctification is a theologically rich and spiritually nourishing work that explores one of the most critical aspects of the Christian life. Written with Pink’s characteristic clarity and doctrinal precision, this book presents a thorough exposition of sanctification—what it is, why it is necessary, and how it is accomplished in the believer’s life. Readers will find themselves drawn into the weighty realities of God’s transforming work in His people, making this book an invaluable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of holiness.
Pink structures his work systematically, progressing through key theological questions that believers often wrestle with: Is sanctification a legal status or an experiential reality? Is it instantaneous or progressive? How does it relate to justification? What role do the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each play in sanctification? What are the means God has ordained for making His people holy? These questions are not treated lightly but explored with scriptural depth, providing a solid foundation for understanding this vital doctrine.
One of the compelling features of this book is Pink’s ability to balance doctrinal precision with pastoral concern. He does not merely present sanctification as an abstract theological concept but as a practical and necessary reality in the life of every believer. He emphasizes that sanctification is not optional for the Christian—it is essential evidence of salvation. While justification declares a believer righteous, sanctification makes him righteous. Pink masterfully shows that this is the work of God in the believer, yet it requires the Christian’s active participation through faith and obedience.
For those who are drawn to Reformed theology, The Doctrine of Sanctification is particularly appealing as it upholds the sovereignty of God in the sanctifying work of His people. Pink avoids legalism on the one hand and antinomianism on the other, calling Christians to a life of holiness that flows out of God’s grace rather than self-righteous striving. The book is filled with scriptural references, demonstrating Pink’s commitment to grounding all doctrine in the authority of God’s Word.
Readers who appreciate a theological work that is both intellectually rigorous and spiritually edifying will find The Doctrine of Sanctification immensely rewarding. Pink does not shy away from confronting the errors of those who distort this doctrine—whether by minimizing the necessity of holiness or by placing undue emphasis on human effort apart from divine grace. His writing is convicting, challenging believers to examine their lives and pursue a deeper conformity to Christ.
In an age when the pursuit of holiness is often neglected or misunderstood, this book serves as a clarion call to return to biblical sanctification. It is not a casual read but a serious, soul-stirring exposition that will drive readers to their Bibles, to their knees in prayer, and to a renewed desire for personal holiness. Those who read The Doctrine of Sanctification with an open heart will not only gain theological knowledge but will be encouraged to live out the gospel with greater fervor and faithfulness.
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Arthur W. Pink was born in Nottingham England in 1886, and born again of the Spirit of God in 1908 at the age of 22. He studied at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, USA, for only six weeks before beginning his pastoral work in Colorado. From there he pastored churches in California, Kentucky, and South Carolina before moving to Sydney Australia for a brief period, preaching and teaching. In 1934, at 48 years old, he returned to his native England. He took permanent residence in Lewis, Scotland, in 1940, remaining there 12 years until his death at age 66 in 1952.
Most of his works...first appeared as articles in the monthly Studies in the Scriptures published from 1922 to 1953 (and currently republished serially by Mt. Zion Publications). Pink was virtually unknown and certainly unappreciated in his day. Independent Bible study convinced him that much of modern evangelism was defective. When Puritan and reformed books were generally disregarded by the Church as a whole, he advanced the majority of their principles with untiring zeal. The progressive spiritual decline of his own nation (Britain) was to him the inevitable consequence of the prevalence of a 'gospel' that could neither wound (with conviction of sin) nor heal (via regeneration).
Familiar with the whole range of revelation, Mr. Pink was rarely sidetracked from the great themes of Scripture: grace, justification, and sanctification. Our generation owes him a great debt for the enduring light he has shed, by God's grace, on the Truth of the Holy Bible.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
1 Introduction
2 Its Meaning
3 Its Necessity
4 Its Problem
5 Its Solution
6 Its Nature
7 Its Author (The Father)
8 Its Procurer (The Son)
9 Its Securer (The Holy Spirit)
10 Its Rule
11 Its Instrument (Faith)
12 Its Means
13 Its Process
14 Its Progress
15 Its Practice
16 Conclusion