Five Cardinal Elements in the Doctrine of Entire Sanctification

By Stephen Solomon White

Introduction

What are the cardinal points in the doctrine of entire sanctification as taught by the Church of the Nazarene? They are as follows: Entire sanctification is, first, a second work of grace, that is, it can be obtained only by the Christian; second, it comes to the heart of the believer instantaneously; third, it frees from the sinful nature with which every person is born; fourth, it is attainable in this life when the necessary conditions are met; and fifth, it and the baptism with the Holy Spirit are simultaneous or occur at the same time. These are all significant phases of this great truth. If a person rejects any one of them, he opposes what we believe to be an essential point in the teaching of the Bible on this subject.

The purpose of these Studies in Holiness is to discuss these five outstanding elements in the doctrine of entire sanctification. We must emphasize and re-emphasize the great fundamentals of our faith. Every generation needs to have these truths presented to it in as simple and as comprehensive a manner as possible.

Every chapter is preceded by a detailed outline of the material which it covers. The general reader may ignore these if he so desires. On the other hand, they will be very helpful if the book is used by study groups. A general scripture reading is suggested at the beginning of each chapter which bears especially on the specific topic discussed [These references were placed both at the beginning of each Lesson Outline and at the beginning of each Lesson Study. At the beginning of the Lesson Studies, I have inserted the full text of these suggested scripture readings along with the author's references. -- DVM]. Further, the same method of procedure is followed in the consideration of each of the five subjects. This means that the material of each chapter is approached from the standpoint of authority, reason, and experience