Topical Encyclopedia Sanctification is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, referring to the process by which believers are made holy and set apart for God's purposes. This transformation is intrinsically linked to the atonement of Christ, which serves as the foundation for the believer's sanctification.Biblical Foundation The New Testament provides a robust framework for understanding sanctification through the atonement of Christ. In Hebrews 10:10, the author states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." This verse underscores the belief that sanctification is made possible through Christ's sacrificial death, which atones for sin and enables believers to be consecrated to God. The Role of the Atonement The atonement of Christ is central to the doctrine of sanctification. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus paid the penalty for sin, satisfying divine justice and reconciling humanity to God. Romans 5:9-10 articulates this truth: "Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him! For if, when we were enemies of God, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!" Sanctification as a Process While sanctification is initiated at the moment of salvation, it is also a progressive work of God in the life of the believer. Philippians 1:6 assures believers of this ongoing process: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." This verse highlights the continuous nature of sanctification, as God works in believers to conform them to the image of Christ. The Holy Spirit's Role The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the sanctification process. As believers are indwelt by the Spirit, they are empowered to live holy lives. In 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 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 to be saved by the sanctification of the Spirit and by faith in the truth." The Spirit's work in sanctification involves convicting believers of sin, guiding them into truth, and producing spiritual fruit in their lives (Galatians 5:22-23). The Believer's Responsibility While sanctification is primarily a work of God, believers are called to actively participate in the process. This involves a commitment to spiritual disciplines, obedience to God's Word, and a willingness to be transformed by the renewing of the mind. Romans 12:1-2 exhorts believers: "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." The Goal of Sanctification The ultimate goal of sanctification is to glorify God by reflecting His holiness and character. Ephesians 1:4 reveals God's purpose for His people: "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence." Through the atonement of Christ, believers are not only justified but are also empowered to live lives that honor God, demonstrating the transformative power of His grace. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 10:10By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 13:12 Library Sanctification. Entire Sanctification in Type. Christ's Prayer Answered. Christ Our Sanctification. Fifth Sunday in Lent Entire Sanctification Obtainable. Entire Sanctification Confession of the Free-Will Baptists. AD 1834, 1868. Christ --Perfect through Sufferings Be Ye Therefore Perfect, Even as Your Father which is in Heaven is ... Resources What is entire sanctification? | GotQuestions.orgJustification vs sanctification'what are the differences? | GotQuestions.org What is sanctifying grace? | 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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