What is Sanctification?

The process of sanctification is often compared to a refining fire, symbolizing the way it purifies and transforms the human vessel.

Sanctification is the process by which a believer is made holy, becoming more like Christ in character and actions through the power of receiving the Holy Spirit. While justification is often understood as a one-time act of being declared righteous by God, sanctification is the ongoing, transformative journey of aligning one's heart, mind, and actions with God’s will.

The process of sanctification is often compared to a refining fire, symbolizing the way it purifies and transforms the human vessel. While it can be challenging, it’s also deeply rewarding, as it draws believers closer to God’s character and purpose. Many traditions see sanctification as both a work of God’s grace and a call for the believer to respond actively, embracing a life shaped by love, faith, and spiritual growth.

Justification

This begins at conversion when a person is justified and set apart for God. It’s the starting point of a lifelong process of spiritual growth.

Progressive Sanctification

This refers to the daily, gradual process of becoming more Christlike, aided by the Holy Spirit. It involves developing virtues such as love, patience, kindness, and humility, while resisting sinful behaviors, and repentance. This phase requires active participation—prayer, scripture study, community, and self-discipline—while relying on God’s grace.

Final Sanctification in the Afterlife

This is often understood as the completion of sanctification that occurs when a believer enters eternity with God. At this point, they are fully free from sin and reflect God’s holiness perfectly.

Scripture Reference

Acts 26:17-18

17 I will rescue you from your people and from the gentiles—to whom I am sending you 18 to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’

Hebrews 10:10

10 And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

11 And every priest stands day after day at his service, offering again and again the same sacrifices that can never take away sins.

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