Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Sanctifying, in biblical terms, refers to the process of being made holy or set apart for God's purposes. The concept of sanctification is central to Christian theology and is understood as both an instantaneous act and a progressive work of God in the life of a believer. It involves the transformation of a person’s character and conduct to align with the holiness of God. Biblical Foundation: The Bible presents sanctification as a divine act initiated by God. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "qadash" is often used, meaning to consecrate or set apart. In the New Testament, the Greek word "hagiazō" carries a similar meaning. Sanctification is both a positional reality and a practical process. Positional Sanctification: Upon accepting Christ, believers are sanctified positionally, meaning they are set apart for God. This is a definitive act accomplished through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." This indicates that sanctification is a completed work in terms of the believer's standing before God. Progressive Sanctification: While believers are positionally sanctified, they are also called to pursue holiness in their daily lives. This ongoing process is known as progressive sanctification. It involves the believer's cooperation with the Holy Spirit to grow in righteousness and Christlikeness. Philippians 2:12-13 exhorts believers 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." Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in sanctification. He empowers believers to overcome sin and to live according to God's will. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 highlights this, saying, "But we should always thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and through belief in the truth." Means of Sanctification: Sanctification is facilitated through various means, including the Word of God, prayer, and the fellowship of believers. Jesus prayed for His disciples in John 17:17 , "Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth." The Scriptures serve as a primary tool for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Holiness and Obedience: Sanctification calls believers to a life of holiness and obedience. 1 Peter 1:15-16 instructs, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" This call to holiness is a reflection of God's character and a response to His grace. Ultimate Sanctification: The process of sanctification will be completed when believers are glorified at the return of Christ. This ultimate sanctification is the final transformation into perfect holiness. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 assures believers, "Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your entire spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it." Sanctification is thus a comprehensive work of God that begins at salvation, continues throughout the believer's life, and is completed in eternity. It is both a gift and a responsibility, calling believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Sanctify.Greek 38. hagiasmos -- consecration, sanctification ... See 40 ("holy"). Word Origin from hagiazo Definition consecration, sanctification NASB Word Usage sanctification (8), sanctifying work (1), sanctity (1). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/38.htm - 7k 4899. suneklektos -- chosen together with Library Sanctifying Grace Whether Sanctifying Grace is Bestowed in this Sacrament? Whether Sanctifying Grace is Conferred in the Sacrament of Order? The Properties of Sanctifying Grace 7Th Day. Sanctifying Grace. Justifying or Sanctifying Grace The Genesis of Sanctifying Grace, or the Process of Justification Whether Blessing and Sanctifying are Due to the Seventh Day? Whether Gratuitous Grace is Nobler than Sanctifying Grace? Our Lord-Sanctifying Himself Thesaurus Sanctifying (22 Occurrences)... n.) of Sanctify. Multi-Version Concordance Sanctifying (22 Occurrences). ... for which 'is' greater, the gold, or the sanctuary that is sanctifying the gold? (YLT). ... /s/sanctifying.htm - 13k Pollute (42 Occurrences) Sanctified (105 Occurrences) Gatekeepers (38 Occurrences) Added (97 Occurrences) Sanctification (13 Occurrences) Sanctify (91 Occurrences) Unction (2 Occurrences) Eternal (166 Occurrences) Dedicates (7 Occurrences) Resources What is sanctifying grace? | GotQuestions.orgAre the seven Catholic sacraments biblical? | GotQuestions.org What is extreme unction / last rites? | GotQuestions.org Sanctifying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sanctifying (22 Occurrences)Matthew 23:17 Matthew 23:19 2 Thessalonians 2:13 Hebrews 2:11 1 Peter 1:2 Exodus 31:13 Leviticus 20:8 Leviticus 21:8 Leviticus 21:15 Leviticus 21:23 Leviticus 22:9 Leviticus 22:16 Leviticus 22:32 Leviticus 27:15 Leviticus 27:19 1 Chronicles 23:13 1 Chronicles 26:28 2 Chronicles 29:34 Nehemiah 12:47 Isaiah 66:17 Ezekiel 7:24 Ezekiel 37:28 Subtopics Related Terms |