THE GLORY OF GOD ( PART 29 )

Pastor Christopher Choo 

Lesson 3327

THE GLORY OF GOD ( PART 29 )

From Glory to Glory ( Study 8 )

THE 3 PHASES OF SANCTIFICATION #1

Sanctification is a translation of the Greek word "Hagiasmos", meaning “holiness” or “a separation.” 

In the past, God granted us justification, once-for-all, positional holiness in Christ. 

Now, God guides us to maturity, practical, progressive holiness. 

In the future, God will give us glorification, permanent, ultimate holiness.

THE 3 PHASES OF SANCTIFICATION

These three phases of sanctification separate the believer from the penalty of sin (justification), the power of sin (maturity), and the presence of sin (glorification).

Prior to salvation, our behavior bore witness to our standing in the world in separation from God, but now our behavior should bear witness to our standing before God in separation from the world. 

Little by little, every day, “those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14, ESV) are becoming more like Christ.

This type of sanctification is to be pursued by the believer earnestly (1 Peter 1:15; Hebrews 12:14) and is affected by the application of the Word (John 17:17).

While we are positionally holy (“set free from every sin” by the blood of Christ, Acts 13:39), we know that we still sin (1 John 1:10). That is why the Bible also refers to sanctification as practical experience of our separation unto God. “Progressive” or “experiential” sanctification, as it is sometimes called, is the effect of obedience to the Word of God in one’s life. It is the same as growing in the Lord (2 Peter 3:18) or spiritual maturity.

Abba Father, it is difficult to understand much less teach these 3 phases of Sanctification. But Paul realized that it is imperative that believers maintain their salvation with fear and trembling. ( Philippians 2:12 ). In this series, may the Holy Spirit guide us to a fuller understanding of the need to go through the painful process of spiritual maturity ( Progressive Sanctification) that we may be fully conformed to the image of Christ.

Philippians 2:12

(New Living Translation)

"Dear friends, you always followed my ( Paul's ) instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear."