The Process of Sanctification
Sanctification is a Greek word that means to be “holy” or “separate”. Everyone who responds to God by placing their faith in Jesus Christ begins an immediate sanctification process. This process has three aspects to it. 1. Positional Sanctification This is the position of those who are saved. Positional Sanctification is just as complete for the weakest and youngest believer as it is for the strongest and oldest believer. It depends only upon one’s union with and position “in Christ.” 2. Progressive Sanctification This sanctification is called “progressive” or “experiential” sanctification, and is the work of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life that brings him closer to the likeness of Jesus Christ through obedience to the Word of God. 3. Permanent Sanctification Permanent Sanctification takes place in the life to come. As believers we will be permanently sanctified by God in the life to come when we receive ou...