Sanctification in Scripture means setting apart; that is, our being set apart to God.
It is a commonly-received thought, that believers in Jesus are justified by faith, and that sanctification follows; some going so far as to say that it is possible to be wholly sanctified, so as to cease from all actual sins. A few profess to have attained to this state.
But what saith the Scripture? We are spoken of, first, both as being sanctified by the Spirit, sanctified by the offering of Christ, and sanctified in Christ, when we believe. Secondly, practical sanctification follows.
Examples of the Former.
“Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit.” 1 Peter 1:2.
“But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
“We are sanctified, through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once.” Hebrews 10:10.
“By one offering He hath perfected forever them that are sanctified.” Hebrews 10:14.
“Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification,” 1 Corinthians 1:30.
“To them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called saints.” 1 Corinthians 1:2.
Examples of the Latter.
“This is the will of God, even your sanctification,” 1 Thessalonians 4:3.
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth.” John 17:17.
N. B.-1 Corinthians 6:11 puts sanctification before justification.
“Ye are washed, ye are sanctified, ye are justified.”
It is of the deepest moment that you should observe and weigh this, if you would be clear on this all-important subject.
A newborn babe is complete in all its parts, as complete as a man; but it will take years to grow to manhood. So a Christian is sanctified by the Spirit, &e., and sanctified in Christ, complete in Him at starting; but needs to grow spiritually, in practical sanctification, from a babe to a young man, and from a young man to a father in the knowledge of Christ (1 John 2:13).