1 Corinthians 6:11 “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
Introduction
Sanctification is not an optional teaching for the Christian. It is the clear will of God for every believer. Salvation begins a new life in Christ, but sanctification explains how that life is to be lived. A person justified by faith is also called to be made holy in conduct, desire, and purpose. Sanctification is the ongoing work of God that separates the believer from sin and conforms them to the image of Jesus Christ.
What Sanctification Is
The word sanctification means to be set apart. In Scripture, it refers to being set apart by God, for God, and unto God.
At salvation, the believer is sanctified in position.
“But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (1 Corinthians 6:11)
This means the believer is declared holy because of Christ, not because of personal merit. This is sometimes called positional sanctification. It is complete and unchanging.
However, Scripture also teaches practical sanctification—the daily, lifelong process of becoming holy in how we live.
“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.” (1 Peter 1:15)
Sanctification, then, is both:
- A state (set apart in Christ), and
- A process (being changed into Christ’s likeness)
What Sanctification Is Not
Sanctification is not sinless perfection in this life.
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves.” (1 John 1:8)
It is also not achieved by religious effort, rule-keeping, or self-discipline alone. While obedience matters, sanctification is not self-improvement—it is spiritual transformation.
Nor is sanctification instant in practice. Growth takes time, testing, and submission to God’s work.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
Sanctification is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit.
“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you… because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit.” (2 Thessalonians 2:13)
The Holy Spirit:
- Convicts of sin
- Produces godly desires
- Empowers obedience
- Transforms character
Without the Spirit, sanctification is impossible. The Christian does not make themselves holy; they yield to the Spirit who makes them holy.
The Role of the Word of God
The Word of God is the instrument God uses to sanctify the believer.
“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” (John 17:17)
Scripture:
- Reveals God’s standard
- Exposes sin
- Renews the mind
- Guides daily living
A believer who neglects Scripture will not grow in sanctification. Holiness grows where truth is believed, loved, and obeyed.
The Role of Obedience and Submission
Sanctification requires willing cooperation with God.
“Yield yourselves unto God… and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.” (Romans 6:13)
This involves:
- Turning away from known sin
- Putting off the old nature
- Putting on righteousness
- Choosing obedience even when it is costly
God does the transforming work, but He does not override the believer’s will. Sanctification advances as the believer submits.
Sanctification and Suffering
God often uses trials to sanctify His people.
“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth.” (Hebrews 12:6)
Suffering:
- Reveals what is in the heart
- Weakens dependence on the world
- Produces endurance and faith
- Refines character
In the last days, Scripture teaches that God is purifying a people who will remain faithful to Christ. Sanctification prepares believers to stand firm and to be a clear witness in dark times.
The Goal of Sanctification
The ultimate goal is Christlikeness.
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son.” (Romans 8:29)
Sanctification is not about outward religion, but inward change that shows itself in holy living. It brings glory to God and separates the believer from the spirit of the age.
Conclusion
Sanctification is God’s will, God’s work, and the believer’s calling. It begins at salvation, continues throughout life, and is completed when the believer stands before Christ. It is achieved through the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, obedient submission, and God’s refining hand.
A sanctified life is not perfect, but it is surrendered. In a world growing more opposed to truth, sanctification marks those who truly belong to Christ and are prepared for His return.