Topical Encyclopedia Sanctification is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, referring to the process by which believers are set apart for God's purposes and transformed into the likeness of Christ. This transformation is both a definitive act and a progressive work, accomplished by the Lord, who is the Sanctifier.Biblical Foundation The term "sanctification" is derived from the Hebrew word "qadash" and the Greek word "hagiasmos," both of which convey the idea of being set apart or made holy. In the Old Testament, God declares His role as the Sanctifier in passages such as Leviticus 20:8, where He commands, "Keep My statutes and practice them. I am the LORD who sanctifies you." This underscores the divine initiative in sanctification, emphasizing that it is God who sets His people apart for Himself. In the New Testament, sanctification is closely associated with the work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, Paul writes, "It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption." Here, Christ is identified as the source of sanctification, highlighting the believer's union with Him as the basis for being made holy. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the sanctification process. In 2 Thessalonians 2:13, Paul states, "But we should always thank God for you, brothers who are loved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning to be saved by the sanctification of the Spirit and by faith in the truth." The Spirit works within believers to produce holiness, convicting them of sin, and empowering them to live in obedience to God's commands. Progressive Sanctification While sanctification is initiated at the moment of salvation, it is also a lifelong process. Hebrews 10:14 affirms this dual aspect: "For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified." Believers are positionally sanctified through Christ's sacrifice, yet they are also being progressively sanctified as they grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord. Human Responsibility Though sanctification is primarily the work of God, believers are called to actively participate in the process. In Philippians 2:12-13, Paul exhorts, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." This passage highlights the synergy between divine sovereignty and human responsibility in sanctification. The Goal of Sanctification The ultimate goal of sanctification is conformity to the image of Christ. Romans 8:29 declares, "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers." This transformation is not merely external but involves the renewal of the mind and heart, resulting in a life that reflects the character and holiness of God. Sanctification and the Church Sanctification is not only an individual experience but also a corporate reality within the body of Christ. Ephesians 5:25-27 illustrates this, as Paul describes Christ's love for the church: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless." The church is collectively sanctified, called to be a holy community that bears witness to the sanctifying power of God. Conclusion Sanctification is a profound and multifaceted doctrine that underscores the holiness of God and His desire for His people to reflect His character. As the Lord is the Sanctifier, believers are assured of His ongoing work in their lives, enabling them to live in holiness and fulfill their calling as His chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 31:13Speak you also to the children of Israel, saying, Truly my sabbaths you shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that you may know that I am the LORD that does sanctify you. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 20:8 Leviticus 21:8 Leviticus 22:9 Library Entire Sanctification a Necessity. What is Sanctification? Third Day. Holiness and Creation. Entire Sanctification in Type. Christ Our Sanctification. I Believe in the Holy Ghost; the Holy Christian Church, the ... Entire Sanctification as Taught by Paul. How Christ is to be Made Use Of, as the Way, for Sanctification in ... The Trinity. Entire Sanctification Resources What is sanctification? What is the definition of Christian sanctification? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is progressive sanctification? | GotQuestions.org What is positional sanctification? | GotQuestions.org Sanctification: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sanctification is Separation to the Service of God Sanctification: All Israel Sanctified Sanctification: All Saints are in a State of Sanctification: Christ Made, of God, to Us Sanctification: Effected by Christ Sanctification: Effected by God Sanctification: Effected by The Holy Spirit Sanctification: Firstborn of Israelites Sanctified Sanctification: God Wills all Saints to Have Sanctification: Material Things Sanctified by Anointing Sanctification: Ministers: Set Apart to God's Service By Sanctification: Ministers: should Exhort Their People to Walk In Sanctification: Ministers: should Pray That Their People May Enjoy Complete Sanctification: None Can Inherit the Kingdom of God Without Sanctification: Offering up of Saints Acceptable Through Sanctification: Saints Elected to Salvation Through Sanctification: Saints Fitted for the Service of God By Sanctification: should Lead to Holiness Sanctification: should Lead to Mortification of Sin Sanctification: Tabernacle Sanctified by God's Presence Sanctification: The Alter Sanctifies the Gift Sanctification: The Church Made Glorious By Sanctification: The Lord is the Sanctifier Sanctification: Through the Atonement of Christ Sanctification: Through the Word of God Sanctification: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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