“Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.” What does it mean to be perfect? Is entire sanctification possible in this life? Such words evoke worry and wonder in this time. In this introductory resource, pastor Nick Quient carefully explores the relevant questions surrounding Pauline theology and the journey toward perfect holiness in Christ. Addressing topics like sin, heaven, marriage, and the work of Jesus Christ in relation to sanctification, this book is a helpful resource for the church and for pastor-theologians who are seeking to live out the life of the Spirit.
As my first read of 2020, I'm thoroughly satisfied with this book.
For someone who is not in the Wesleyen tradition--yet close (Pentecostal)--it is a pleasure to look into Entire Sanctification.
Nick's writing is eloquent and captivating. For a book with many big words, citations, and various theological interaction, it was still fun and easy to read (for the most part 😉).
One of the most surprising chapters for me was Chapter 4 having to do with sex and marriage. When I've thought about this doctrine in the past, I've never considered the interplay it has on relationships, yet Nick has clearly shown how these work together and how we can strive closer in marriage by working synergistically with God to be confirmed to His image.
Nick also shows the importance of the Holy Spirit's role in this doctrine. In most scholarly interactions regarding the Trinity, the Holy Spirit can often be forgotten--typically left as an addendum. We see throughout the book how the Holy Spirit is central to our Sanctification.
Thank you for spending your time in this to share with the world.
great book! haven't really read a theology book on perfection yet so I enjoyed delving deeper into this topic. Sometimes a few terms went over my head a bit, I haven't been to seminary, but I have Google so that worked for me to at least understand the basics of words I didn't know! I really appreciated how for the generic "person" you used she/her pronouns, I haven't ever seen that in a Christian book and that was nice to see! :) I thoroughly enjoyed the section on reframing hell and Christian perfection, as well as the practical section at the end for laypeople like me. thanks for a great read Nick!
This is a meaningful treatise on Christian responsibility for, and partnership with our triune God, as we go along on our journey to perfection in life. From the first page to the last, Nick engages in thoughtful theological exploration, responsible Biblical exegesis, and a personal flare of humor and wit which distinguish him as a scholar, a pastor, and a person.
Nick communicates his deeply insightful exegesis, while employing faithfulness to the pragmatic necessities and heartfelt inquiries of the church. This is not simply an academic exploration of a concept devoid of practical emphasis in the church; rather it ties together academia and the heart of pastoral ministry, a difficult feat to accomplish.
Last, but by no means least to mention, this book is thoroughly, genuinely, Nicholas Quient. What he says, what he argues, and how he goes about it are clear expressions of who Nick is. One does not need wonder who, nor what, Nick is like when reading this book. Rather, it is unsurprisingly like having a conversation with him over drinks and cigars while admiring the stars on the back porch.