What is Sanctification?
Sanctification is one of the most important and transformative experiences in a Christian’s life. If you are new to Christianity and seeking salvation and a deeper walk with God, understanding sanctification will help you live a life that is truly pleasing to Him.
Many Christians believe in the importance of holiness, but there are different opinions about how and when sanctification happens. Some think it occurs at the moment of salvation, while others believe it happens at the moment of death or even in purgatory after death. Others see it as a lifelong process of growing in holiness but never actually reaching it. However, the Bible teaches that sanctification is something we can experience here and now.
The Meaning of Sanctification
The word “sanctification” comes from the same root as “holy” and means “to be set apart for God.” It is the process by which a believer is cleansed from sin and made holy in heart and life.
Sanctification is an instantaneous work of God, accomplished by the power of the Holy Spirit. When a person is sanctified, their heart is purified from the inner corruption of sin, and the Holy Spirit takes full control. Paul writes about this in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, saying, “Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; who hath also sealed us, and given us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.”
This means that sanctification is not just something we hope for in the future—it is something that can happen in this life!
How Does Sanctification Happen?
John Wesley, a key figure in Christian holiness teaching, emphasized that sanctification is received by faith alone. It is not something we achieve by our own efforts, but something God does in us when we surrender completely to Him.
The Bible compares sanctification to death—specifically, death to our sinful nature. Galatians 5:24 says, “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”
This means that when we are sanctified, we die to our sinful desires and become fully devoted to God. Some people receive this experience quickly, while others struggle for a long time. But the delay is not because God is unwilling—it is often because we are not yet fully surrendered or do not have enough faith to believe for it.
No matter how long a person seeks sanctification, when it happens, it happens in an instant. God does not work in half-measures. When He sanctifies a believer, He does it completely.
Is Sanctification the End? No—It’s the Beginning!
Some people think that once they are sanctified, they have reached the peak of their Christian life. But that is not true! Entire sanctification is just the starting point of a life of spiritual growth.
The people of Israel had to cross the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land, but that was not the end of their journey. They still had battles to fight and land to claim. Similarly, after we are sanctified, we still have struggles and challenges, but now we face them with a purified heart and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. W. T. Purkiser explains, “Entire sanctification is not the end—it is really the beginning. It is not a terminal; it is a starting point. Sanctification is the beginning of a lifetime of growth.”
Why is Sanctification Necessary?
Sanctification is not just an option for advanced Christians—it is necessary for anyone who wants to live a victorious Christian life.
Even after someone is saved, the root of sin still remains in their heart. Paul describes this struggle in Romans 7:22-23: “For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.”
Many believers live in a constant battle with sin when they could be living in freedom, joy, and victory through sanctification. Without sanctification, they may remain spiritually weak and struggle to maintain their Christian walk.
Sanctification is also necessary for a Christian home. A home where the Holy Spirit dwells is a place of peace, love, and joy. Without the experience of holiness, even Christian families can struggle with division, anger, and misunderstandings.
The church also needs sanctified members. Many church problems arise because of carnality—that is, people acting out of selfishness rather than being led by the Holy Spirit. Paul rebuked the Corinthians for their divisions and immaturity, saying in 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
A sanctified church is a powerful, unified church where God’s love reigns!
How Can You Be Sanctified?
If you are seeking sanctification, here are some important steps:
- Recognize Your Need – You must first realize that salvation alone is not the end. You need a deeper work of God in your heart to cleanse you from the root of sin.
- Surrender Completely to God – Give every part of your life to God. Let go of all your desires, plans, and ambitions, and give Him total control.
- Believe in God’s Promise – Sanctification is received by faith. You don’t earn it by works, but you trust God to do what He has promised.
- Pray and Seek Until You Receive It – Some people receive sanctification quickly, while others take longer. The key is to keep seeking and trusting until God completes His work in you.
When you are sanctified, you will know it. The Holy Spirit will fill your heart, and you will experience a new level of freedom, joy, and love for God and others.
Live a Life of Holiness!
Sanctification is not just a theological idea—it is a real experience that transforms lives. It is the key to victorious Christian living, a strong Christian home, and a powerful church.
It is not about being perfect in knowledge or never making mistakes. It is about having a pure heart, free from sin, and fully surrendered to God.
If you have not yet experienced entire sanctification, seek it today. God desires to make you holy and fill you with His Spirit. He is ready to do it—are you ready to receive it?
Let us live in holiness and walk in the victory that God has provided!