by Pastor Wendall Ward
Jesus said, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” John 17:17. This profound statement underscores the essential role of divine truth in the process of sanctification. While many believers turn to the Bible for assurance of their salvation, fewer recognize its importance in their sanctification. Sanctification is the process of being made holy. It is not a passive state but an active pursuit of godliness.
Sanctification and Salvation
One of the common misconceptions in the Christian journey is confusing salvation with sanctification. Salvation is a moment of divine grace where a believer is justified before God. It is the assurance of eternal life, the secure foundation upon which faith stands. However, sanctification is the ongoing process that naturally follows salvation. It is the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Steadily molding us into the likeness of Christ increasingly setting us apart for His good work in the world.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification
Holiness is the gradual and comprehensive development of God’s character in our lives. This process is not instantaneous but occurs over a lifetime. The Apostle Paul refers to it as “training in righteousness.” In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, he explains, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” This training involves the study and application of Scripture to our lives. Couple that with a life filled with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our sanctification. It is not about legalistic behavior modification. Instead it is about the gradual, growing influence of the Holy Spirit directing and developing our lives. The Spirit convicts us of sin, encourages us in righteousness, and empowers us to overcome the flesh. In Romans 8:13-14, Paul writes, “For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”
Practical Aspects of Sanctification
Sanctification involves both divine intervention and human responsibility. God provides the means and the power through His Spirit and His Word, but we must actively cooperate. This cooperation involves several practical aspects:
Immersion in Scripture. The Bible is our primary source of truth and guidance. Regular study and meditation on Scripture to renew our minds and align our thoughts with God’s will. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Persistent Prayer. Prayer is our lifeline to God. It is through prayer that we communicate with our Creator, seek His guidance, and receive strength. James 5:16 reminds us, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
Obedience to God’s Commandments. Obedience is the practical evidence of our faith. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commands.” This obedience is not out of obligation, but out of love for God.
Community and Fellowship. The Christian journey is not meant to be walked alone. Fellowship with other believers provides support, accountability, and encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Confession and Repentance. Regular confession and repentance keep our hearts tender before God. 1 John 1:9 assures us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
The Outcome of Sanctification
The ultimate goal of sanctification is to be conformed to the image of Christ. Romans 8:29 states, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” As we grow in holiness, we reflect Christ’s character more clearly. Our lives become a testament to God’s transforming power and a beacon of hope to a broken world.
Sanctification is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, perseverance, and a deep reliance on God’s grace. Philippians 1:6 encourages us with these words: “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.”
Sanctification is an integral part of the Christian life. It is the process through which we are made holy, set apart for God’s purposes. It involves both divine empowerment and human effort. As we submit to the Holy Spirit and immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we experience the gradual, transformative work of sanctification, becoming more like Christ each day.
For more of Pastor Wendall Ward’s writing, check out this blog that-we-may-know-the-one-true-god/