Role of Human Cooperation in Christian Sanctification

The role of human cooperation in Christian sanctification is a topic of great importance, as it addresses the manner in which believers grow in holiness and become more like Christ. According to Reformed theology, sanctification is a work of God's grace, wherein the Holy Spirit enables believers to put to death the deeds of the flesh and to live a life of obedience to God's law. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." This verse highlights the sovereign work of God in the lives of believers, yet also implies the necessity of human cooperation, as believers are called to work out their salvation with fear and trembling.

Human cooperation in sanctification involves the deliberate and intentional pursuit of holiness, through the means of grace, such as prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers. However, it is crucial to recognize that this cooperation is not a work of human merit, but rather a response to the gracious work of God in the believer's life. A common misconception is that human cooperation implies a form of synergism, where the believer's efforts are seen as contributing to their own sanctification.

In reality, the believer's efforts are merely a response to the prior work of God's grace, and are therefore secondary to the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit. The gospel connection is clear, as the believer's growth in holiness is a result of the finished work of Christ, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in their life. As a pastor, it is essential to emphasize the importance of human cooperation in sanctification, while also ensuring that the believer's eyes remain fixed on the gracious work of God, rather than their own efforts.