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 work of Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit.Biblical Foundation The New Testament provides a robust framework for understanding sanctification. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, the Apostle 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, sanctification is presented as an integral part of the believer's identity in Christ, alongside righteousness and redemption. Definitive Sanctification Definitive sanctification occurs at the moment of salvation, when a believer is positionally set apart for God. This is a one-time event that marks the believer as holy in the sight of God. 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 verse underscores the completed work of Christ on the cross, which secures the believer's sanctified status. Progressive Sanctification While definitive sanctification is a completed act, progressive sanctification is an ongoing process. It involves the believer's growth in holiness and conformity to the image of Christ. 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." This passage highlights the cooperative nature of sanctification, where the believer actively participates in the process while relying on God's enabling power. Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in sanctification, guiding and empowering believers to live according to God's will. In Galatians 5:16, Paul instructs, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Spirit's indwelling presence enables believers to overcome sin and cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23. Means of Sanctification Several means are provided for the believer's sanctification. The Word of God is central, as Jesus prayed in John 17:17, "Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth." Scripture serves as a guide and a tool for transformation, renewing the mind and shaping the believer's character. Prayer is another vital means, fostering communion with God and dependence on His grace. Additionally, the fellowship of believers, as described in Hebrews 10:24-25, encourages mutual edification and accountability, spurring one another on toward love and good deeds. Ultimate Sanctification The process of sanctification will reach its culmination in the believer's glorification at the return of Christ. 1 John 3:2 offers this hope: "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is." This future transformation assures believers that the work God has begun will be brought to completion. Sanctification in Christ is thus a comprehensive work of grace, encompassing the believer's past, present, and future, and is essential for living a life that honors God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 1:2To the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both their's and our's: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Christ as Wisdom and Sanctification and Redemption. Christ Our Sanctification. Christ, the Believer's Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and ... Twenty-Second Day. In Christ Our Sanctification. How Christ is to be Made Use Of, as the Way, for Sanctification in ... Faith in Christ for Pardon and Sanctification. Faith in Christ for Pardon and Sanctification. Sanctification in Fellowship with Immanuel Entire Sanctification as Taught by Jesus Christ. Application of Sanctification. 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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