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 journey, rooted in the divine election of the saints to salvation.Biblical Foundation The doctrine of sanctification is deeply embedded in Scripture, emphasizing God's sovereign role in the election and sanctification of His people. In 2 Thessalonians 2:13, the Apostle Paul writes, "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" . This passage highlights the interplay between divine election and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, underscoring that sanctification is both a divine initiative and a response to the truth of the Gospel. Election and Sanctification The concept of election is integral to understanding sanctification. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will" . Here, the apostle Paul links God's eternal choice with the call to holiness, indicating that sanctification is a predetermined aspect of the believer's salvation. The Role of the Holy Spirit Sanctification is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit, who indwells believers and empowers them to live in accordance with God's will. Romans 15:16 speaks of "the offering of the Gentiles becoming acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit" . The Spirit's role is to convict, guide, and transform believers, enabling them to grow in holiness and reflect the character of Christ. Progressive Sanctification While sanctification is initiated at the moment of salvation, it is also a lifelong process. Philippians 1:6 assures believers, "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus" . This ongoing work involves the believer's active participation through obedience, prayer, and the study of Scripture, as they cooperate with the Spirit's transformative power. 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 both individual and communal, as the Church collectively grows into a holy temple for the Lord. Assurance and Hope The doctrine of sanctification provides believers with assurance and hope, as it is rooted in God's unchanging purpose and promise. Hebrews 10:14 affirms, "For by a single offering He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified" . This assurance rests on the finished work of Christ and the ongoing work of the Spirit, guaranteeing that God's elect will ultimately be brought to glory. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Thessalonians 2:13But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brothers beloved of the Lord, because God has from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Peter 1:2 Library Perseverance of the Saints Proved. Concerning God's Purpose The Sovereignty of God in Salvation Election Andover Orthodox Creed. Sanctification Covenanting According to the Purposes of God. Perseverance Fowler -- the Spirit of Christ The Second Commandment Resources What is the Keswick movement, and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Oswald Chambers? | GotQuestions.org What is glorification? | 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 |
    |