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Short Studies in Biblical Theology
Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ
A Biblical Theology of Sanctification from Genesis to Revelation The entire biblical narrative declares the righteousness of God and the consecration of his people. In this book, Marny Köstenberger explores the topic of sanctification―being set apart by God for holiness.
Surveying the Bible from beginning to end, Köstenberger shows that sanctification
is grounded in the eternal holiness of God, who created humanity in his image. Now, in Christ, the Spirit sets believers apart and restores them to the original image. Sanctification often takes place in the midst of suffering and equips believers for their God-given mission.
Surveying the Bible from beginning to end, Köstenberger shows that sanctification
is grounded in the eternal holiness of God, who created humanity in his image. Now, in Christ, the Spirit sets believers apart and restores them to the original image. Sanctification often takes place in the midst of suffering and equips believers for their God-given mission.
- GenresTheology
160 pages, Paperback
Published June 27, 2023
12 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Marny Köstenberger
3 booksMarny Köstenberger (ThD, University of South Africa) is a teacher and women’s consultant, the author of Jesus and the Feminists, and the coauthor of God’s Design for Man and Woman and Parenting Essentials. She previously served as director of women’s programs and mentoring, and professor of theology and women’s ministry at various churches and seminaries. Marny and her husband, Andreas, live in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 2, 2024
Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ by Marny Kostenberger is an in-depth and insightful examination of a key theme woven throughout the entire Bible: the transformation of God's people into beings of holiness. Köstenberger masterfully guides readers on a journey from Genesis to Revelation, unpacking the rich tapestry of Scripture related to sanctification.
This book goes beyond mere definition, offering a deep understanding of God's inherent holiness and its implications for humanity. We are reminded that our very creation reflects His image, and through Christ and the Holy Spirit, we are restored to that original design. Köstenberger delves into the Hebrew and Greek nuances of the word "sanctification," illuminating the depth and richness of the concept. This deeper understanding goes beyond cultural and historical barriers, making the book relevant for readers of all backgrounds.
Significantly, Köstenberger acknowledges that sanctification is not a smooth, effortless journey. Suffering often plays a critical role, refining our faith and shaping us into vessels fit for God's purposes. This honest portrayal resonates with me and my real-life experiences, offering comfort and encouragement to those facing challenges. By connecting the Old and New Testaments seamlessly, the book reveals God's consistent pursuit of our transformation, offering a timeless message of hope and growth while continually growing closer to God.
I will definitely re-read this book many times. One particularly powerful takeaway I have is that true obedience fuels kingdom living. This book goes beyond legalistic interpretations of Scripture, emphasizing the heart's role in fulfilling God's purposes. It's a call to move beyond external compliance and embrace a life transformed by love, compassion, and genuine desire to serve God and others.
I wholeheartedly and passionately agree with Robert W. Yarbrough, Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary, who has said: “Study this book for help in understanding how God’s holiness pours into and out from the lives of His people through faith in Christ and the Spirit’s work.”
Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this critical concept. Its accessible language, in-depth analysis, extensive Scripture references, and recommendations for further reading make it perfect for scholars and everyday readers. Whether you're embarking on a personal exploration of the Christian faith or seeking a richer grasp of God’s Word, this book offers individuals a powerful and transformative journey.
I received a digital version of Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ from Crossway. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. I agreed to give my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the excellent content of this book ensuring transparency and reliability.
This book goes beyond mere definition, offering a deep understanding of God's inherent holiness and its implications for humanity. We are reminded that our very creation reflects His image, and through Christ and the Holy Spirit, we are restored to that original design. Köstenberger delves into the Hebrew and Greek nuances of the word "sanctification," illuminating the depth and richness of the concept. This deeper understanding goes beyond cultural and historical barriers, making the book relevant for readers of all backgrounds.
Significantly, Köstenberger acknowledges that sanctification is not a smooth, effortless journey. Suffering often plays a critical role, refining our faith and shaping us into vessels fit for God's purposes. This honest portrayal resonates with me and my real-life experiences, offering comfort and encouragement to those facing challenges. By connecting the Old and New Testaments seamlessly, the book reveals God's consistent pursuit of our transformation, offering a timeless message of hope and growth while continually growing closer to God.
I will definitely re-read this book many times. One particularly powerful takeaway I have is that true obedience fuels kingdom living. This book goes beyond legalistic interpretations of Scripture, emphasizing the heart's role in fulfilling God's purposes. It's a call to move beyond external compliance and embrace a life transformed by love, compassion, and genuine desire to serve God and others.
I wholeheartedly and passionately agree with Robert W. Yarbrough, Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary, who has said: “Study this book for help in understanding how God’s holiness pours into and out from the lives of His people through faith in Christ and the Spirit’s work.”
Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this critical concept. Its accessible language, in-depth analysis, extensive Scripture references, and recommendations for further reading make it perfect for scholars and everyday readers. Whether you're embarking on a personal exploration of the Christian faith or seeking a richer grasp of God’s Word, this book offers individuals a powerful and transformative journey.
I received a digital version of Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ from Crossway. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. I agreed to give my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the excellent content of this book ensuring transparency and reliability.
September 17, 2023
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”” Peter’s charge to the people of God in 1 Peter 1 reverberates throughout the pages of Scripture, both the Old Testament as well as the New.
Marny Köstenberger’s book, Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ helps solidify this important biblical teaching. Her work is the latest installment in Crossway’s series, The Short Studies in Biblical Theology. Students of Scripture are encouraged to trace critical themes in the biblical metanarrative.
Köstenberger begins with creation and links the doctrine of sanctification with the biblical covenants. She argues that “the story of God’s relationship with humanity is bound up with presence: God created humans to live in his presence; they transgressed the Creator’s command and consequently were expelled from his presence. God restored Israel and the people of God utilizing the biblical covenants which are summed up and consummated in the New Covenant, where the law of God is written on the hearts of his people and his presence is manifest through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Various themes are presented with the intention of tying the doctrine of sanctification so followers of Christ may understand and be edified. The themes of union with Christ and suffering are two themes that stand out in particular.
The author is quick to point out the practical nature of sanctification. In the final analysis, she writes, “We’ve become part of God’s mission to bring his name and saving message to the ends of the earth as we witness boldly to the one who lives inside us.” May each reader be strengthened by the indwelling Spirit and may his work of grace continue unhindered in the lives of his people!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Marny Köstenberger’s book, Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ helps solidify this important biblical teaching. Her work is the latest installment in Crossway’s series, The Short Studies in Biblical Theology. Students of Scripture are encouraged to trace critical themes in the biblical metanarrative.
Köstenberger begins with creation and links the doctrine of sanctification with the biblical covenants. She argues that “the story of God’s relationship with humanity is bound up with presence: God created humans to live in his presence; they transgressed the Creator’s command and consequently were expelled from his presence. God restored Israel and the people of God utilizing the biblical covenants which are summed up and consummated in the New Covenant, where the law of God is written on the hearts of his people and his presence is manifest through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Various themes are presented with the intention of tying the doctrine of sanctification so followers of Christ may understand and be edified. The themes of union with Christ and suffering are two themes that stand out in particular.
The author is quick to point out the practical nature of sanctification. In the final analysis, she writes, “We’ve become part of God’s mission to bring his name and saving message to the ends of the earth as we witness boldly to the one who lives inside us.” May each reader be strengthened by the indwelling Spirit and may his work of grace continue unhindered in the lives of his people!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
October 12, 2024
When I saw this book it occurred to me I don’t know of any book out there on a biblical theology of sanctification. This book is a survey of that, giving us a biblical theology of sanctification. This is a volume in the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series which is published by Crossway. The publishers and Amazon said this is one hundred sixty pages but when I read it I noticed it is 125 pages.
Besides the introduction there are six chapters. The first chapter looks at the Old Testament with how it is foundation for the discussion for sanctification, from creation to covenant. Chapter two onwards is focus on the New Testament beginning with a look at the Gospel and how it is the inauguration of the kingdom of God and chapter three looks at the book of Acts and how this is the age of the Spirit. Chapter four then looks at the community dimension with sanctification as taught in Paul’s epistles to the Corinthians, Romans and Ephesians. Chapter five is titled “Adversity: Discipling and Suffering” that covers some General Epistles that does mention about persecution and Satan who opposes us with persecution. Chapter six is titled “Legacy: Love and Virtue"” on the last books chronologically in the New Testament with regards to sanctification and chapter seven is practical application in light of the new life in Christ.
I did appreciate this book and the subject matter but I wished there was more Old and New Testament connections (for example: how did the New Testament use the Old Testament, what is the Old Testament as background helpful for our understanding of the New Testament). During various times reading this book I noticed she quotes a lot from her husband’s books and I mean quotes after quotes; I wished she would interact more with the works of others. Still overall though I appreciate this book.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Crossway without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
Besides the introduction there are six chapters. The first chapter looks at the Old Testament with how it is foundation for the discussion for sanctification, from creation to covenant. Chapter two onwards is focus on the New Testament beginning with a look at the Gospel and how it is the inauguration of the kingdom of God and chapter three looks at the book of Acts and how this is the age of the Spirit. Chapter four then looks at the community dimension with sanctification as taught in Paul’s epistles to the Corinthians, Romans and Ephesians. Chapter five is titled “Adversity: Discipling and Suffering” that covers some General Epistles that does mention about persecution and Satan who opposes us with persecution. Chapter six is titled “Legacy: Love and Virtue"” on the last books chronologically in the New Testament with regards to sanctification and chapter seven is practical application in light of the new life in Christ.
I did appreciate this book and the subject matter but I wished there was more Old and New Testament connections (for example: how did the New Testament use the Old Testament, what is the Old Testament as background helpful for our understanding of the New Testament). During various times reading this book I noticed she quotes a lot from her husband’s books and I mean quotes after quotes; I wished she would interact more with the works of others. Still overall though I appreciate this book.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Crossway without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
July 6, 2023
Not the strongest in the series. Felt more like an extended entry in a theological dictionary. One of the endorsements on the cover called it “informative.” That is a great description.
November 9, 2025
Kostenberger, Marny. (2023). Sanctification – As Set Apart and Growing in Christ. Crossway.
A rich treatment on this important theological principle, presented in a logical sequence and focused on specific Scripture passages to support each chapter. The introduction identifies challenges to the topic for the wolefully uninformed Christian, described by Richard Lovelace) as “The Sanctification Gap” – “the chasm between people’s best intentions and their inadequate understanding of what the Scriptures teach on sanctification” (p. 1). The author suggests three “gaps” in developing a biblical understanding of sanctification. The Language Gap comes from the Latin word for holy, sanctus in the Latin Vulgate, connecting to Roman Catholic theology and tradition. Sucj “Saints” possess a special level of holiness which seems unattainable by most Christians. The second gap, the Tradition Gap, is represented as a collection of approaches to Scripture by denominations and groups result in wide range of actions, including contemplative and ascetic exercises, even suggesting a “second blessing” or “entire sanctification.” Finally, the Relevance Gap, sadly suggests that many Christians are simply not interested in, not just the topic, but the very practice! Kevin DeYoung addresses this in his book The Hole in our Holiness.
The Foundation chapter deals with Creation and Covenant, emphasizing the importance God placed on holiness in his creation. The focus of this chapter was sanctification in the Old Testament. Chapter 2 , Inauguration, deals with God’s kingdom and the New Testament. Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount and His high priestly prayer are dealt with in this powerful chapter. Sanctification in the age of the Spirit is the next topic, from the early church through the epistle of James and Paul’s letter to the Galatians and his communication with the church in Thessalonica. The author notes four key observations in this chapter. First, God desires complete sanctification. Second, this will not occur until judgment day. Third, the work of sanctification is God’s work and, finally, this ultimate sanctification is absolutely certain, since it is the solely the work of God. Chapter4. Community, focuses on being united in the Spirit, emphasizing the importance of one another in this journey. Paul’s epistles figure greatly on this topic, including the limitation of the law and the challenges of indwelling sin. I did not agree with the author in her interpretation of Romans 7, suggesting that Paul is NOT speaking of himself but is describing a fictional character dealing with the issue. Chapter 5 on Adversity focuses on the perfection of the believer that comes from suffering, referencing the hall of faith from Hebrews. Two final chapters in this useful book deal with the legacy of sanctification as well as the practice of this new way of life in the Spirit. These final, practical chapters include time spent focusing on Paul’s instruction for holy living, Jude on contending for the faith, and John on the supremacy of love. The author closes this topic in dealing with discipline and suffering, community and mission, and marriage, family, and mentoring.
Each chapter closes with a summary of the topic under consideration. In addition. The author provides a significant Scriptural references throughout the book, as well as a list of suggested books (some by the author’s spouse).
A rich treatment on this important theological principle, presented in a logical sequence and focused on specific Scripture passages to support each chapter. The introduction identifies challenges to the topic for the wolefully uninformed Christian, described by Richard Lovelace) as “The Sanctification Gap” – “the chasm between people’s best intentions and their inadequate understanding of what the Scriptures teach on sanctification” (p. 1). The author suggests three “gaps” in developing a biblical understanding of sanctification. The Language Gap comes from the Latin word for holy, sanctus in the Latin Vulgate, connecting to Roman Catholic theology and tradition. Sucj “Saints” possess a special level of holiness which seems unattainable by most Christians. The second gap, the Tradition Gap, is represented as a collection of approaches to Scripture by denominations and groups result in wide range of actions, including contemplative and ascetic exercises, even suggesting a “second blessing” or “entire sanctification.” Finally, the Relevance Gap, sadly suggests that many Christians are simply not interested in, not just the topic, but the very practice! Kevin DeYoung addresses this in his book The Hole in our Holiness.
The Foundation chapter deals with Creation and Covenant, emphasizing the importance God placed on holiness in his creation. The focus of this chapter was sanctification in the Old Testament. Chapter 2 , Inauguration, deals with God’s kingdom and the New Testament. Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount and His high priestly prayer are dealt with in this powerful chapter. Sanctification in the age of the Spirit is the next topic, from the early church through the epistle of James and Paul’s letter to the Galatians and his communication with the church in Thessalonica. The author notes four key observations in this chapter. First, God desires complete sanctification. Second, this will not occur until judgment day. Third, the work of sanctification is God’s work and, finally, this ultimate sanctification is absolutely certain, since it is the solely the work of God. Chapter4. Community, focuses on being united in the Spirit, emphasizing the importance of one another in this journey. Paul’s epistles figure greatly on this topic, including the limitation of the law and the challenges of indwelling sin. I did not agree with the author in her interpretation of Romans 7, suggesting that Paul is NOT speaking of himself but is describing a fictional character dealing with the issue. Chapter 5 on Adversity focuses on the perfection of the believer that comes from suffering, referencing the hall of faith from Hebrews. Two final chapters in this useful book deal with the legacy of sanctification as well as the practice of this new way of life in the Spirit. These final, practical chapters include time spent focusing on Paul’s instruction for holy living, Jude on contending for the faith, and John on the supremacy of love. The author closes this topic in dealing with discipline and suffering, community and mission, and marriage, family, and mentoring.
Each chapter closes with a summary of the topic under consideration. In addition. The author provides a significant Scriptural references throughout the book, as well as a list of suggested books (some by the author’s spouse).
April 24, 2023
Good as far as it goes. A bit of a disconnect between the OT and NT discussions. This may be because of the author's baptistic theology. And at times some less than convincing arguments. For instance, in discussing the Greek word "hagioi" she says it literally means "holy ones," not "saints" as some translations have it. And yet "saints" means . . . "holy ones." So, not a great argument.
And yet, the book is worthwhile. After all, how couldn't it be useful to reconsider that to which Scripture calls believers in their daily lives? She makes a very quick dash through the NT epistles, but everything she highlights is of course commanded by God and not to be ignored. Thus the book does us a service.
And yet, the book is worthwhile. After all, how couldn't it be useful to reconsider that to which Scripture calls believers in their daily lives? She makes a very quick dash through the NT epistles, but everything she highlights is of course commanded by God and not to be ignored. Thus the book does us a service.
December 10, 2025
A clearly written and sound biblical theology of sanctification. Beyond the overall clarity and biblical faithfulness of this book, I was thankful for the recognition by the author of the positional and progressive aspects of sanctification, the emphasis on God's grace in Christ for sanctification and that sanctification starts with faith though it results in doing. Also, the importance of the Christian community, i.e., sanctification is a not an individual affair solely but rather it takes place as the individual participates in the worshiping community of believers, the church.
June 5, 2024
Might be a little biased about this book, seeing as though the author is my mom, BUT this book was a wonderful overview of the concept of sanctification in the Bible. It doesn’t go super into depth but it’s a “short study in biblical theology” so it’s definitely a great short study! One of the best books I’ve ever read, thanks mom :)
August 21, 2024
A cracking little book on sanctification.
It was as comprehensive as it could be in the time that it had.
I enjoyed the grouping of New Testament epistles to discuss different aspects of sanctification.
A good read and something not to shy away from. Sanctification is truly possible because of what God has done for us.
It was as comprehensive as it could be in the time that it had.
I enjoyed the grouping of New Testament epistles to discuss different aspects of sanctification.
A good read and something not to shy away from. Sanctification is truly possible because of what God has done for us.
March 17, 2025
Decent. The OT section is interesting but barely affects the rest of the book. Overall, this book gives a decent theological foundation for approaching sanctification as a topic, but reveals the limitations of the (fairly indefinite) “biblical theology” approach. There are better places to start on the theological and practical matters in ay here. 5/10
December 16, 2023
I’ve been deep diving more into this topic and this book really helped me to understand the biblical framework for sanctification from genesis to revelation. Less application but more theology which was really helpful!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews