Spirit of Prophecy

An introduction to the writings of Ellen G. White — the lesser light pointing to the greater light, the Word of God.

The Sanctified Life
Published: 1937Chapters: 11Pages: 96
The Sanctified Life is one of Ellen G. White's shorter and most focused books -- a clear, forceful study of what genuine sanctification is and how it is attained. Written from a deep personal experience of walking with God, she carefully examines true sanctification and contrasts it with the unsound but popular theories of her day, which claimed instant, effortless holiness. Instead she shows that sanctification is the work of a lifetime -- a daily surrender to God that transforms character. She illustrates this truth through the lives of Bible worthies: the disciplined faithfulness of Daniel and his companions, and the Christlike character of John the Beloved, drawing from their examples practical lessons in temperance, courage, prayer, humility, and love.
Ellen White wrote these articles to correct the false idea that holiness is a sudden, emotional experience requiring no ongoing effort, and to set forth the biblical truth that sanctification is a continual growth in grace and obedience. She wanted believers to understand that true holiness touches the whole person -- body, mind, and spirit -- and is possible only through daily dependence on Christ. The book calls the reader to the steady, practical, character-building work of a life wholly surrendered to God.
Anyone seeking to understand what sanctification and holiness really mean, and how Christian character is formed over time. Its short length and clear, illustrated chapters make it an excellent and accessible study -- ideal for those who want a focused book on practical Christian growth and victory over sin.
Review and Herald Publishing Association
The material first appeared as a series of eleven articles under the title Sanctification in the Review and Herald in 1881, later gathered into a pamphlet called Bible Sanctification. In 1937 it was reissued in its entirety under the familiar title The Sanctified Life, with subheadings added and one paragraph drawn from Prophets and Kings. Apart from these small additions, it remains an exact reprint of the 1881 work.
  1. True and False Theories Contrasted
  2. Daniel's Temperance Principles
  3. Controlling the Appetites and Passions
  4. The Fiery Furnace
  5. Daniel in the Lions' Den
  6. Daniel's Prayers
  7. The Character of John
  8. The Ministry of John
  9. John in Exile
  10. Christian Character
  11. The Christian's Privilege
Read this book at EGW Writings →