Sanctification
Definition:
Sanctification is the ongoing process by which believers are made holy, set apart for God’s purposes, and transformed into the likeness of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Biblical References:
“For this is the will of God, your sanctification.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3 (ESV)
“But we are bound to give thanks… because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
Sanctification shows that salvation is not only about being saved from sin’s penalty but also from its power. It deepens our relationship with God and reflects His holiness in our lives.
Further Reading:
Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology, John Wesley’s teachings on holiness, and the Holman Bible Dictionary.
Justification
Definition:
Justification is God’s legal declaration that a sinner is righteous through faith in Jesus Christ, based on Christ’s atoning work, not personal merit.
Biblical References:
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 5:1 (ESV)
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 3:24 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
It is the foundation of salvation by grace, assuring believers that they are accepted by God and no longer condemned.
Further Reading:
Martin Luther’s writings, Romans commentary by Douglas Moo, and Reformed theology sources.
Redemption
Definition:
Redemption refers to the act of being bought back or rescued from sin’s bondage through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.
Biblical References:
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins.” – Ephesians 1:7 (ESV)
“Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law.” – Galatians 3:13 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
Redemption highlights God’s mercy and power to restore what was lost, giving believers a new identity and inheritance in Christ.
Further Reading:
The Cross of Christ by John Stott, and the Old Testament study of kinsman-redeemer laws.
Atonement
Definition:
Atonement is the reconciliation between God and humanity made possible through Jesus’ death, which satisfies divine justice and removes sin.
Biblical References:
“He is the propitiation for our sins.” – 1 John 2:2 (ESV)
“And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” – Romans 5:11 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
The atonement is the heart of the gospel. It reveals God’s love and justice and offers peace through the blood of Christ.
Further Reading:
A.W. Tozer, R.C. Sproul, and Levitical sacrifice studies.
Imago Dei
Definition:
Imago Dei is Latin for “Image of God,” describing the unique way humans reflect God's nature—morally, relationally, and spiritually.
Biblical References:
“So God created man in his own image…” – Genesis 1:27 (KJV)
“With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.” – James 3:9 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
Understanding Imago Dei grounds human dignity, purpose, and identity, and shapes Christian views on justice, ethics, and sanctity of life.
Further Reading:
John Calvin’s Institutes, Francis Schaeffer’s How Should We Then Live?, and modern theology journals.
Free Will
Definition:
Free Will refers to humanity’s God-given ability to choose between obedience and disobedience, though affected by sin and grace.
Biblical References:
“Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” – Joshua 24:15 (KJV)
“For it is God who works in you… to will and to work for his good pleasure.” – Philippians 2:13 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
This concept invites theological reflection on human responsibility, divine sovereignty, and the nature of love and obedience.
Further Reading:
Augustine, Arminian vs. Calvinist debates, and The Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther.
Soteriology
Definition:
Soteriology is the theological study of salvation—its origin, nature, and implications—based on God’s redemptive plan through Christ.
Biblical References:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith.” – Ephesians 2:8 (KJV)
“He saved us… by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” – Titus 3:5 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
A solid understanding of salvation protects against error and strengthens assurance, gratitude, and evangelistic passion.
Further Reading:
Louis Berkhof’s Systematic Theology, Billy Graham’s gospel messages, and resources from the Gospel Coalition.
Eschatology
Definition:
Eschatology is the study of the “last things”—including Christ’s return, judgment, the resurrection, and the eternal state of believers and unbelievers.
Biblical References:
“Behold, I come quickly…” – Revelation 22:12 (KJV)
“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven…” – 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
It shapes hope, holiness, and perseverance by reminding believers of God’s ultimate victory and justice.
Further Reading:
Tim LaHaye, N.T. Wright, premillennial and amillennial theology, and the book of Revelation studies.
Pneumatology
Definition:
Pneumatology is the doctrine of the Holy Spirit—His nature, roles, gifts, and work in believers and the Church.
Biblical References:
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things.” – John 14:26 (ESV)
“Quench not the Spirit.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:19 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
Understanding the Spirit’s work fuels spiritual growth, empowerment, and discernment, central to Christian living.
Further Reading:
Jack Hayford’s teachings, the Forgotten God by Francis Chan, and charismatic theology.
Christology
Definition:
Christology is the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ—His divinity, humanity, atonement, resurrection, and eternal role.
Biblical References:
“In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” – Colossians 2:9 (KJV)
“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.” – Colossians 1:15 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
Christology ensures accurate worship, doctrine, and discipleship. A faulty view of Christ leads to a faulty faith.
Further Reading:
Creeds (Nicene, Chalcedonian), Knowing Christ by Mark Jones, and apologetic works on Jesus’ divinity.
Theophany
Definition:
A Theophany is a visible or tangible manifestation of God to humans, often in temporary forms like fire, cloud, or angelic presence.
Biblical References:
“And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire.” – Exodus 3:2 (KJV)
“Then the Lord appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre…” – Genesis 18:1 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
These encounters emphasize God’s desire to reveal Himself, affirm His guidance, and prepare His people for divine missions.
Further Reading:
Studies on Christophanies, Jewish mysticism, and Old Testament appearances of God.