The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification: Growing in Holiness by Living in Union with Christ

The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification by Walter Marshall first published in 1692 is one of the classic works of Christian spirituality. It is a deep and rich biblical study of sanctification - how Christians grow in holiness and become more like Jesus. In a day when Christians are very prone to pursue self-help methods to grow in obedience to Christ Walter Marshall lays out the biblical way of growth: obedience comes as Christians live by grace in union with Christ by faith. Growth comes as Paul says in Galatians 2:20 through Christ living in me. The message of this book is so important for Christians today it is essential that it be rewritten in contemporary English. How can we command holiness without causing despair among saints who know that they are still sinners? Walter Marshalls answer to this mystery not only saved lives in his time but continues to bring renewed zeal for God to believers in the generations since. The relief and resolve of grace are the Gospel mystery that elude so many but find rejuvenating expression in the firm grasp of Marshall. Dr. Bryan Chapell President Covenant Theological Seminary In this extremely insightful book Marshall reminds us that our union with Christ by faith is the wellspring of the transforming power of the gospel. Following in the steps of the Reformers he explains the biblical view of true faith in sanctification - a faith in Christ manifested through a proper use of the means of grace (such as prayer the word sacraments and the church). Marshalls discussion is balanced - he avoids the common extremes that lead to errors frequently found in works on this subject. Dr. Steven L. Childers Associate Professor of Practical Theology Reformed Theological Seminary Orlando Florida As Marshall states at the beginning of the book there is no argument that we should obey Gods law. The question is - how do we actually do it? In great detail Marshall explains how faith and the gospel are actually the means to accomplish what is required for the Christian life. This is a book that takes its place alongside key books like The Marrow of Modern Divinity in defining the nature of the Christian life. It is part of the Reformed church always reforming itself and as such it deserves to be kept before the Christian public. Rev. Steve Smallman Pastor New Life Presbyterian Church Philadelphia Pennsylvania Dr. Bruce H. McRae is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church in America and a teacher of practical theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta Georgia. He earned a B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis an M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary a D.Min. from Fuller Theological Seminary and an M.B.A. from Georgia State University. He and his wife Katie reside in Atlanta Georgia along with their three children Calli Colin and Bonnie.