Sanctification, in the biblical context, is a remarkable and transformative process that believers experience in their spiritual journey. This guide aims to dissect the concept in detail, illuminating its significance, process, and implications for the Christian faith.
1. The Origin of Sanctification in Christ
The commencement of sanctification is anchored in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As the source of sanctification, Jesus sets the groundwork by providing His followers with everything they need for spiritual growth, as they remain connected to Him through faith (1 Corinthians 1:30).
2. The Role of Regeneration in Sanctification
Regeneration, or the rebirth of a believer, is the fountainhead of sanctification. This transformative act infuses a new nature into believers, marking the beginning of their sanctification journey. As believers mature, they are further sanctified, growing in grace and perfecting holiness.
3. The Definitive Aspect of Sanctification
While sanctification is often perceived as a progressive process, it also has a definitive aspect. This refers to a radical, once-for-all act that severs the believer’s relationship with sin. This definitive sanctification transpires when a believer is united with Christ, sharing in His victory over sin and death.
4. Sanctification: A Process Driven by Faith and Love
Sanctification is a process propelled by two potent forces — faith and love. While faith alone justifies believers, sanctification involves “faith working through love” (Galatians 5:6). This active partnership of faith and love prompts growth in grace and brings about sanctification.
5. Sanctification: A Gift and a Responsibility
While sanctification is undoubtedly God’s gracious work, human beings participate actively in this divine operation. Believers aren’t mere spectators; they are active participants, wrestling against sin and striving to foster good works (Philippians 2:12–13).
6. Sanctification: Not a Path to Perfection
While sanctification is a transformative journey, it doesn’t guarantee perfection. Believers continue to grapple with sinful tendencies and weaknesses. However, they are reassured by the knowledge that their sanctification process is real, albeit imperfect and incomplete.
7. Sanctification: Beyond the Natural
In a world captivated by self-help ideologies and mindfulness, it is crucial to discern that sanctification is not a natural process. It transcends personal growth, productivity, and mindfulness. Sanctification involves a supernatural intervention, resulting from the indwelling presence and power of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22–26).
8. Sanctification: Not a Means to Earn God’s Love
Sanctification isn’t a scheme to win God’s love. Scripture affirms that sanctification is a divine gift bestowed upon individuals whom God already loves. God’s love for His people is unconditional, independent of their sanctification progress.
9. The Distinction Between Justification and Sanctification
While both justification and sanctification are integral to Christian salvation, they are distinct concepts. Justification is a legal declaration of righteousness, while sanctification is a transformative process. Justification occurs instantaneously, whereas sanctification is a lifelong journey.
10. The Role of Means in Sanctification
God has instituted certain means to facilitate believers’ progression in sanctification. The Word, sacraments, and prayer are central elements in this process. Their diligent application in believers’ lives significantly contributes to their sanctification journey.
11. The Ultimate Goal of Sanctification
The ultimate goal of sanctification is to mold believers into the likeness of Christ. As God’s sanctifying work progresses, believers begin to reflect the characteristics of Jesus, learning to love what God loves, and to value what God values.
12. The Future Promise of Sanctification
Sanctification holds a future promise — a promise of total sanctification or glorification. This refers to the believer’s ultimate separation from sin, resulting in a state of perfect holiness. This glorious state awaits believers in eternity, marking the completion of their sanctification journey (1 John 3:2).
Conclusion
In conclusion, sanctification is a transformative journey that every believer embarks upon. It is a divine operation, powered by Christ’s work, facilitated by means, and aimed at molding believers into Christ’s likeness. While sanctification may be imperfect and incomplete in this life, it holds a future promise of perfection and completeness in eternity.
M. J. Kelley II