Second Blessing Holiness

 A somewhat-neglected facet of holiness that merits fresh consideration is entire sanctification as a second blessing, or a second work of grace. These phrases have historically been warmly embraced by the American Holiness Movement, and the concept is very much present in Wesley’s writings.

The phrase second blessing holiness underscores the fact that entire sanctification is received “subsequent to regeneration,” as stated in our tenth Article of Faith. The phrase highlights a “transforming moment” of grace and emphasizes that entire sanctification is received at some point following conversion. The phrase also points to a spiritual benefit – a “blessing” – to be sought and experienced.

After carefully examining the testimonies of numerous individuals who had experienced entire sanctification, Wesley observed that he had met no one who experienced full deliverance from inward sin at the moment of salvation, or initial sanctification. Eventually, all became aware of remaining sin (self-centeredness) after conversion and then sought deliverance from a divided heart. Wesley concluded that all had experienced transformation in a moment. That moment had been preceded by growth in grace (gradual sanctification), but the actual deliverance from inward sin was instantaneous. Continued growth and maturity followed.

Justification and sanctification deal with different aspects of sin. Justification addresses sins committed. Sanctification addresses sin inherited, or sin as a principle or nature. Sinners do not typically recognize their need of sanctification, but rather of redeeming grace and forgiveness. Believers soon recognize their need of heart cleansing, and of sanctifying grace. The “first blessing” is being born again; the “second blessing” is a cleansed heart. The first blessing forgives us of sin; the second blessing purifies us from sin. First, we are born of the Spirit; second, we are filled with the Spirit.

The phrase, second blessing holiness, reminds us of the “transforming moment” of entire sanctification – of the distinct, critical moment we experience God’s grace in a way that purifies our heart. Wesley was able to maintain a proper balance between the “transforming moment” and the “transforming journey,” recognizing the necessity of both. The journey of grace is marked by significant milestones – two in particular: when we experience justification, and when we experience entire sanctification. While we must not reduce sanctification to a single moment, neither must we forget the importance of such a moment of entire sanctification. Growth in grace precedes that transforming moment, and continued maturity in grace follows it.

There is admittedly an inherent danger in a fixed model of an experience. To reduce holiness to a stereotyped expectation is to place a limitation on a rich understanding of grace and to reduce the intimacy of a relationship to a mere prescription, or “two trips to the altar.” Our sanctification is not intended to be a regimented, standardized formula, but rather an ongoing, deepening relationship with Jesus Christ, marked by the rich nuances of the Spirit-led and, ultimately, Spirit-filled life.

May our preaching and teaching invite others experience both the “transforming journey” and the “transforming moment,” and blessing after blessing.

Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit

Into ev’ry troubled breast!

Let us all in Thee inherit; Let us find that second rest.

Take away our bent to sinning; Alpha and Omega be.

End of faith, as its Beginning,

Set our hearts at liberty.

(Charles Wesley’s hymn, Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, second verse)