Sanctification is God’s Work, but We Participate
Scripture teaches that sanctification is both monergistic and synergistic—meaning it is primarily God’s work, but we are called to actively pursue holiness. Philippians 2:12-13 captures this tension perfectly: “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.”
This means that while God is the One producing holiness in us, we are not passive in the process. We respond in obedience, putting sin to death and striving for righteousness.
What Does Sanctification Look Like?
1. A Lifelong Journey, Not Instant Perfection
When we first come to Christ, we are made new (2 Corinthians 5:17), but we are not yet perfected. The Christian life is one of daily growth. Some days, the change is noticeable—other days, it feels like we’re stuck. But no matter how slow the process may seem, God is faithfully at work.
Think of sanctification like raising a child. A baby doesn’t become an adult overnight—it grows, learns, and matures over time. In the same way, believers grow in holiness gradually, as God teaches, corrects, and molds us.
2. A Battle Against Sin
Sanctification involves an ongoing fight against sin. Even though we have been saved, our old sinful nature still wages war against us (Romans 7:22-23). This means we will struggle—but struggle is a sign of life. A dead man doesn’t fight; only someone alive in Christ wrestles against sin.
Imagine a prisoner who has been set free but still feels the temptation to return to his old cell because it’s familiar. Sin operates the same way—it calls us back to our old ways. But in Christ, we have been freed! We are no longer slaves to sin (Romans 6:6), and by the Spirit’s power, we can resist temptation.
3. God’s Discipline and Refining Fire
Sanctification often happens through trials. God uses suffering and hardship to refine us, like a blacksmith refining metal in fire to remove impurities (James 1:2-4).
Think about how gold is purified—it is heated until the impurities rise to the surface and are removed. In the same way, God allows difficulties in our lives to expose the sin, weaknesses, and areas where we still need to grow. Though painful, these moments shape us into the image of Christ.
4. The Role of the Word and the Spirit
We do not grow in holiness by sheer willpower but through the transforming work of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit. Jesus prayed in John 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.”
This means that the more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more our thoughts, desires, and actions align with God’s will. The Holy Spirit works in us, convicting us of sin, guiding us into truth, and empowering us to obey.
How Do We Actively Pursue Sanctification?
Though sanctification is God’s work, we are called to pursue it with intentionality. Here are some ways we can actively grow in holiness:
- Daily Repentance: The Christian life is one of continual repentance. We do not outgrow the need to confess our sins and turn back to God.
- Immersion in Scripture: Reading, studying, and meditating on God’s Word renews our minds and transforms our hearts.
- Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit: We cannot grow on our own. We need to seek God daily, asking Him to change us.
- Commitment to the Local Church: Growth happens in community. Surrounding ourselves with other believers helps keep us accountable, encouraged, and strengthened in faith.
- Obedience in the Small Things: Growth in holiness often happens through everyday choices—choosing patience over anger, truth over lies, service over selfishness.
The End Goal: Glorification
One day, the process of sanctification will be complete. When we enter eternity, we will be fully free from sin and perfectly conformed to the image of Christ. This is called glorification, and it is the final stage of salvation. Until then, we press on, trusting that “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).
Press On—God is at Work in You!
Sanctification is not about striving for perfection in our own strength, but about trusting God to finish the work He started. Even when progress feels slow, even when we stumble, He is faithful.
So keep going. Keep fighting sin. Keep seeking Christ. The journey may be long, but the destination is glorious.
What’s Your Next Step?
- Examine your life – Are there areas where God is calling you to grow?
- Immerse yourself in Scripture – Let God’s Word transform your heart and mind.
- Get connected – Find a local church, small group, or mentor to walk alongside you.
How has God been working in your life through sanctification? Share your thoughts or struggles in the comments—we’d love to encourage and grow with you!
