Sanctification

Definition

Sanctification is the process of becoming holy or being made holy, often viewed as a transformative journey in the life of a believer. This journey is initiated by God's grace and redemption, leading to an inner change that aligns a person more closely with God's will. It connects deeply with the work of the Holy Spirit, spiritual practices that nurture faith, and the ethical implications that arise as one grows in holiness and moral integrity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sanctification involves both a positional aspect (being set apart for God) and a progressive aspect (growing in moral character over time).
2. The process of sanctification is often seen as cooperative, where believers actively participate through their choices and spiritual disciplines.
3. Different Christian traditions emphasize different aspects of sanctification, such as instantaneous versus gradual sanctification.
4. The role of the Holy Spirit is crucial in sanctification, empowering believers to overcome sin and live according to God's will.
5. Sanctification has ethical implications, calling believers to live out their faith in practical ways that reflect their growing holiness.

Review Questions

• How does the process of sanctification reflect both God's grace and human responsibility in a believer's life?
  • Sanctification illustrates the dynamic relationship between divine grace and human action. God's grace initiates the process by redeeming individuals and providing the Holy Spirit to empower them. However, believers are also responsible for engaging in spiritual practices, making choices that align with God's will, and participating actively in their transformation. This cooperative effort highlights how grace does not negate human responsibility but rather invites believers to respond actively to God's work in their lives.
• What are some differences in how various Christian traditions understand the concept of sanctification?
  • Different Christian traditions interpret sanctification in distinct ways. For example, some denominations emphasize a momentary experience of sanctification, viewing it as an instantaneous act following justification. Others see it as a lifelong journey where spiritual growth occurs progressively over time. Additionally, certain traditions may focus on specific practices or rituals that aid in sanctification, while others highlight personal faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit as key components.
• Evaluate the implications of sanctification for Christian ethics and moral behavior in daily life.
  • Sanctification profoundly influences Christian ethics by establishing a framework for moral behavior rooted in a believer's growing holiness. As individuals progress in their sanctification journey, they are called to embody virtues such as love, compassion, and integrity in their interactions. This transformation not only affects personal choices but also impacts how Christians engage with societal issues, advocating for justice and reflecting Christ-like character. Ultimately, sanctification drives believers to align their ethical standards with their identity as children of God.

Related terms

Justification: Justification is the act of being declared righteous before God, typically understood as a one-time event through faith in Jesus Christ.

Glorification: Glorification refers to the final step in the process of salvation, where believers are ultimately transformed and perfected in the presence of God after death.

Holiness: Holiness is the state of being set apart for God's purposes, often characterized by moral purity and spiritual integrity.