What is the biblical definition of sanctification?

Sanctification is a profound and essential concept within Christian theology, representing a pivotal aspect of the believer's spiritual journey. To understand sanctification biblically, we must delve into both the Old and New Testaments, where the concept is richly woven into the narrative of God's redemptive work.

At its core, sanctification refers to the process of being made holy, set apart for God's purposes. The term itself originates from the Latin word "sanctus," meaning holy, and the suffix "-fication," which denotes the process of making or becoming. In the biblical context, sanctification is both a definitive act and a progressive process, signifying the believer's positional holiness in Christ and the ongoing transformation into Christlikeness.

In the Old Testament, the concept of sanctification is closely tied to the idea of holiness. God is repeatedly described as holy, and His people are called to reflect His holiness. Leviticus 11:44-45 states, “For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy.” Here, sanctification involves being set apart from the nations and practices surrounding Israel, emphasizing a distinct identity rooted in God's character and covenant.

The New Testament expands on this foundation, providing a more comprehensive understanding of sanctification through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, sanctification is often discussed in three tenses—past, present, and future—highlighting its multifaceted nature.

Firstly, sanctification is a definitive act that occurs at the moment of salvation. This is sometimes referred to as positional sanctification. When a person places their faith in Jesus Christ, they are sanctified in the sense that they are set apart for God. This is not based on their own merit but on the finished work of Christ. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 6:11, writes, “And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” This verse underscores the believer's new identity in Christ, having been cleansed and consecrated by His sacrifice.

Secondly, sanctification is an ongoing, progressive process. This aspect of sanctification is often referred to as experiential or progressive sanctification. It involves the believer's daily growth in holiness and conformity to the image of Christ. This process is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who works in the believer to produce spiritual fruit and cultivate Christlike character. Philippians 2:12-13 captures this dynamic, stating, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” Here, the believer is called to actively participate in their sanctification, cooperating with the divine work of the Spirit.

The Apostle Peter also speaks to this progressive nature in 2 Peter 3:18, urging believers to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” This growth is marked by increasing love, obedience, and maturity in faith. It is a journey that involves both divine empowerment and human responsibility, as believers seek to live out the implications of their salvation in every area of life.

Thirdly, sanctification has a future dimension, often referred to as ultimate or final sanctification. This is the completion of the sanctification process, which will occur when believers are glorified at the return of Christ. At this point, believers will be fully conformed to the image of Christ, free from sin and its effects. 1 John 3:2 provides a glimpse of this future reality: “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.” This eschatological hope inspires believers to persevere in their present struggles, knowing that their ultimate sanctification is assured.

Sanctification, therefore, is not merely a static state but a dynamic journey that encompasses the entirety of the Christian life. It is rooted in the believer's union with Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. As believers are sanctified, they are progressively transformed, reflecting God's holiness and bearing witness to His redemptive work in the world.

Throughout church history, various Christian traditions have emphasized different aspects of sanctification. For instance, the Reformed tradition, drawing heavily from the writings of John Calvin, emphasizes the sovereignty of God in sanctification, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in effecting this transformation. The Wesleyan tradition, influenced by John Wesley, accentuates the believer's responsibility in pursuing holiness and the possibility of attaining a significant measure of sanctification in this life, often referred to as "Christian perfection."

Despite these differences, there is a shared acknowledgment across Christian traditions that sanctification is integral to the believer's relationship with God. It is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, calling believers to live distinctively in a world that often opposes God's ways.

In practical terms, sanctification involves a continual turning away from sin and a turning toward God. It requires the believer to engage in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, study of Scripture, worship, and fellowship with other believers. These practices are not ends in themselves but means through which the Holy Spirit works to deepen the believer's relationship with God and foster spiritual growth.

Moreover, sanctification is deeply relational. It is not merely an individual pursuit but a communal journey. The church, as the body of Christ, plays a crucial role in the sanctification of its members. Through mutual encouragement, accountability, and the exercise of spiritual gifts, believers are edified and equipped to grow in holiness together.

In conclusion, the biblical definition of sanctification encompasses both a definitive act and a progressive journey. It is rooted in the believer's union with Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and oriented toward the ultimate goal of Christlikeness. As believers participate in this process, they bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, living as a holy people set apart for God's purposes in the world.