Definition
Christian sanctification is a process of transformation in which a person, who has already accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, comes to understand the implications of that faith and becomes increasingly devoted to God. The believer’s commitment to holiness, as expressed by obedience to God’s commands, is evidence of his or her sanctification. The process of sanctification is a lifelong pursuit, typically lasting from the moment of justification until the believer’s death.
Importance
Sanctification is an important part of the Christian life. It’s the process whereby a person is transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ, not only in how we think and act, but also in our attitude and thought processes. As the Church teaches, only in and through sanctification can believers come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ and fulfill their purpose in life (Ephesians 4:13).
Origins and Practices
The roots of sanctification are found in the Bible. The Old Testament contains several references to sanctification, as do the New Testament epistles. Generally speaking, sanctification is the result of growing in grace (2 Peter 3:18). This often involves growing in understanding of God’s Word and accepting instructions from the Holy Spirit in order to become more holy. Christians often practice sanctification through prayer, fasting, reading the Bible, fellowship with other believers, and by giving back to their communities.
Objectives
The ultimate aim of sanctification is for believers to become imitators of Christ—to be conformed to His image. As Paul put it, “For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers” (Romans 8:29). The idea is that, as a result of sanctification, believers should become progressively more like Christ.
Realities
The process of Christian sanctification is often hindered by worldly desires, or things that seek our attention, as well as habits that keep us from pursuing holiness. For example, weak responses to temptations, or behaviors that reflect a lack of godliness, can affect our progress. In addition, healthy spiritual disciplines, like reading the Bible and prayer, are also necessary for growth in sanctification.
Uplifting Power
The power of Scripture and obedience to its commands are essential for growth in sanctification. The Bible is filled with Scriptures that can transform the way we think and act. Taking time to reflect upon God’s word leads to a deeper understanding of the living God and the shape of His Kingdom. Thus, those who approach Scripture humbly and prayerfully can move closer to holiness and be filled with a desire to imitate Jesus.
Role of the Church Community
The Church community plays an important role in sanctification. Spending time with fellowship of believers and learning from their experiences will benefit spiritual growth. Sharing personal experiences which identify with negatives of the world can be a powerful catalyst for change. Moreover, the church can provide a safe environment to address struggles and provide safe spaces for accountability. As a whole, church communities can offer support and encouragement for members to pursue holiness.
Spiritual Disciplines
The practice of spiritual disciplines is also essential for growth in sanctification. Reading the Bible, prayer, fasting, attending church, engaging in devotional activities, and engaging in acts of service can help us to grow closer to God and demonstrate His goodness in our lives. For example, studying the Bible helps to reveal God’s character and will, which provides a roadmap for holiness and spiritual growth.
Fruit of Sanctification
The ultimate fruit of sanctification is joy and peace in God’s presence. We experience greater clarity of thought and better discernment through prayer and meditating on Scripture. We are able to recognize our sins quickly, allowing us to make reparations and find forgiveness. We may also experience an increase in love and compassion for others, and our relationships become stronger.
Obedience
Once we grow in sanctification, we become more obedient to God’s commands. We are able to recognize His voice and value His will above our own. In doing so, we are able to sacrifice our desires and desires of others in order to pursue holiness and righteousness. This obedience can be demonstrated through acts of love, kindness, and generosity, as well as apologizing for our wrongdoings.
Surrender
The Christian sanctification process requires surrender to God. In order to become more like Christ, we realize that it is only through surrender and submission that we can experience the freedom from sin that comes from living in Christ’s righteousness. In making this choice, we give up control of our lives and trust completely in God – surrendering our desires and plans to Him.
Personal Investment
Sanctification is a personal investment in the pursuit of holiness. It requires effort and commitment on the part of the believer to recognize and fight against the distractions and temptations that can lead away from a godly life. To grow in sanctification, we must be willing to accept criticism, receive guidance, and learn from our mistakes. We must also continually strive to strengthen our relationship with God, allowing Him to be the ultimate guide in our journey of holiness.
