Challenging the common assumption that the New Testament views sanctification as primarily a process, David Peterson argues that its emphasis falls upon sanctification as a definitive event. He builds his case on careful exegesis, and at the same time shows the pastoral strength of his findings, demonstrating that positional sanctification offers the greatest incentive for godly living.

"Peterson's treatment is far from hackneyed or trivial. His aim is to show that much of the New Testament treatment of sanctification stresses what used to be called 'positional sanctification' or the like--and that much godly living, Christian assurance, stable faith and Christian maturity stem from a firm grasp of what the Bible says in this regard." (D. A. Carson, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (Deerfield, Illinois))

David Peterson was senior research fellow and lecturer in New Testament at Moore Theological College, Sydney, where he still teaches part time. He served as principal of Oak Hill College, London, from 1996 to 2007. His books include Engaging with God, Possessed by God (both IVP) and Hebrews and Perfection (Cambridge University Press).