Episode 3: Sanctification - A Guide to Holy Living

Today in episode 3 of our Foundational series, we’re going to be discussing the word “Sanctification.”  Sanctification means to be set apart for God’s special purpose and is the process by which we learn and grow in our faith resulting in holy living.  Salvation is instantaneous - 2 Cor. 5:17 but sanctification is a life-long process of striving to be more like Jesus.  While sanctification produces good works, salvation is all about what Christ has already done for us on the cross and is only through Christ by faith.

The book of Leviticus gave the Israelites instruction on holy living after their salvation from Egyptian bondage, just as the Epistles give us instruction for holy living today.  (Reference - Lev. 19:2, 20:7; 1 Peter 1:16; 1 Thess. 4:7; Rom 12:1)

First Peter 2:2 reminds us just as newborn babies are fed with milk, as new believers we are babes in Christ and become more and more like Jesus everyday as we study God’s Word and grow in His truth and righteousness. But if/when we sin, we are given the promise of 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Although He will forgive us, true repentance is asking for forgiveness and turning away from sin.  We cannot even begin to fulfill our purpose in Christ if we are not living holy lives.

Our challenge for the week gives us practical tips and next steps in following Christ after salvation.  First of all, if you’ve never been baptized, now is the time (Mark 3:13-17, Rom. 6, Col 2:12).  Find a local church and attend faithfully (Heb. 10:25).  Study and spend time in prayer each day (2 Timothy 2:15).  And finally, be holy as He is Holy (1 Peter 1:2, Rom. 6:11, Heb. 12:11).