When I begin to explore a certain idea, I typically begin by looking up key words associated with the concept. In this case, I looked up sanctification. Our fearless Webster defines sanctification as, “the state of growing in divine grace as a result of Christian commitment after baptism or conversion.” Sanctification is the act of a sovereign God who sets apart a person, place, or thing in order for his purposes to be accomplished. For a Christian, this process begins when we accept Christ and are transformed by his grace.
As a Christian, we are justified through Jesus’ death on the cross. We are saved by what he has done and there is nothing we can do to earn it. Sanctification occurs after salvation. When we are sanctified, we are released to freely live the life God has planned for us. But sanctification isn’t just a one-time deal. Being sanctified doesn’t mean we will never sin. It means that we recognize our sinful nature and chose to allow God to work through us despite our downfalls.
So whose responsibility is it to sanctify us? Since sanctification means to be set apart and made holy, I believe it is only God who can make this happen. It is only through Jesus’ death on the cross that we are free from sin – there is nothing we can do to save ourselves.
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:23
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
While salvation is God's work, sanctification may require some work on our part . . . like practicing holiness in our daily lives, making good moral choices, loving people who aren't necessarily lovable. What do you think?
ReplyDelete