Biblical Doctrine Center
Sanctification
The ongoing work of God making believers holy, distinct from justification but flowing from it.
Overview
Historical and Literary Context
The New Testament describes sanctification in three tenses: believers have been sanctified positionally at conversion (1 Corinthians 1:2), are being sanctified progressively throughout life (2 Corinthians 3:18), and will be fully sanctified at glorification (1 John 3:2).
And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (KJV)
Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do.
Philippians 2:12-13 (KJV)
What Scripture Explicitly Says
Scripture explicitly presents sanctification as God's work (1 Thessalonians 5:23) that believers actively pursue (Hebrews 12:14), empowered by the Spirit (Romans 8:13) and God's word (John 17:17), producing increasing conformity to the character of Christ (Romans 8:29).
Questions Christians Discuss
Christians discuss how much victory over particular sins should be expected in this life, and how the balance between divine grace and human effort in growth ('work out' alongside 'God worketh in you') is best understood. Most agree both realities are true simultaneously without contradiction.
Gospel Connection
Sanctification is not a means of earning God's favor; it is the fruit of already having it. Because believers are united to Christ, the Spirit produces his character in them over time (Galatians 2:20).
Practical Application
Growth in holiness includes disciplines like prayer, Scripture, confession, and community, while resting in the truth that God is the one ultimately at work (Philippians 1:6).
Cross References
2 Corinthians 3:18 (KJV) - Changed into the same image from glory to glory. Romans 12:1-2 (KJV) - Transformed by the renewing of your mind. Hebrews 12:14 (KJV) - Follow holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.
Reflection Questions
- 1
Where have you seen genuine growth in Christlike character over the past year?
- 2
How do you hold together the call to actively pursue holiness with the truth that God is the one producing it in you?
- 3
What spiritual discipline would most help your growth right now?
Prayer
Lord, sanctify me wholly, spirit, soul, and body.
Thank you that you are at work in me both to will and to do your good pleasure. Help me to grow in Christlike character this day. Amen.
Continue Your Study
The Holy Spirit -- examines the Spirit's central role in producing holiness in the believer.
Salvation -- studies the justification sanctification always flows from.