Scriptural Separation

[Michael37]

Separation For Sanctification

The concept of separation for sanctification in the Bible refers to the process of being set apart for God's purposes, growing in holiness, and distancing oneself from sin and worldly influences. Here are some key aspects:

• Biblical Foundation:

  • Leviticus 20:26 – "You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be My own."
  • 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 – "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you."
  • Romans 12:1-2 – Calls believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices and not conform to the world.

• Theological Significance:

  • Sanctification is both positional (declared holy through faith in Christ) and progressive (growing in holiness through the Holy Spirit).
  • Galatians 5:16-17 – Encourages believers to walk by the Spirit to avoid gratifying sinful desires.

• Practical Implications:

  • Separation for sanctification affects thoughts, actions, relationships, and lifestyle choices.
  • Ephesians 5:11 – "Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them."

Separation For Salvation

The Bible speaks of the separation between the elect and the non-elect in various passages, often emphasizing God's sovereignty in salvation. Here are a few key themes:

• God's Choosing – The concept of election is seen in verses like Ephesians 1:4-5, which speaks of God choosing believers before the foundation of the world.
• The Wheat and the Tares – In Matthew 13:24-30, Jesus tells a parable about wheat (the elect) and tares (the non-elect), which will be separated at the final judgment.
• The Sheep and the Goats – Matthew 25:31-46 describes the final separation of the righteous (sheep) from the unrighteous (goats).
• Romans 9 – This chapter discusses God's sovereignty in choosing some for mercy while others are hardened.

Separation For Service

The concept of separation for service in the Bible refers to God setting apart individuals or groups for His purposes. This theme runs throughout Scripture, emphasizing holiness, dedication, and mission. Here are some key examples:

• Old Testament Examples:

  • Abraham was called to leave his homeland to become the father of a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3).
  • The Levites were separated for priestly duties, serving in the tabernacle and later in the temple (Numbers 8:14-16).
  • The Nazarite vow involved voluntary separation for a period of special dedication to God (Numbers 6:1-21).

• New Testament Examples:

  • Jesus Christ exemplified separation for service through His life and ministry, consecrated for the mission of salvation (Matthew 3:13-17; 4:1-11).
  • The apostles were set apart for the proclamation of the Gospel. In Acts 13:2, the Holy Spirit instructs the church at Antioch, "Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them."

• Theological Significance:

  • Separation for service underscores the call to holiness and obedience. 1 Peter 2:9 describes believers as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession."
  • This separation is not just for personal piety but for active engagement in God's mission in the world.

[Alive]

Nice outline on the subject. Separation for service is relevant. 

[Michael37]

8 hours ago, Alive said:

Nice outline on the subject. Separation for service is relevant. 

Yes, often it gets rough. Some of the OT prophets thought so, and we can appreciate their words when our own service to the Lord seems fraught with trouble and mined with woes. 

[Alive]

We rely on wisdom and discernment of the Lord and each other to check ourselves when needed…always needed.

It a huge responsibility when all the souls from the world over come here for help and solace.

My heart is for the young ones and for those that can be recovered…the church is a messy place as we have this treasure in earthen vessels.