Jesus Is…, 58

~ Jesus Christ Is Our Sanctification ~

Passage  ~  “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God — and righteousness and sanctification and redemption — that, as it is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord’” (1 Corinthians 1:30-31).

Significance  ~  Sanctification has a base meaning of being “set apart” and is a three-phase event.  First, the Christian was (past tense) positionally sanctified when they accepted the gift of salvation provided by Jesus Christ.  The believer has been declared righteous by God, set apart by God, and is eternally secure.  Second, the Christian is in the process of being (present tense) progressively sanctified as they grow in their relationship to Jesus Christ.  The believer is being set apart by God.  Finally, the Christian will (future tense) be perfectly sanctified when they live forever with their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  The believer will be glorified and experience the full effects of their eternal salvation. 

Comment  ~  It is important to distinguish three theological terms. 

Justification  ~  To be declared righteous—past tense—a settled fact!   

I have been saved from the penalty of sin.  My position in Christ (how God sees me). 

Sanctification  ~  Primarily present tense—a present reality (but note “Significance” above).  

I am being saved from the power of sin.  My activity is becoming like Christ.

Glorification  ~  Future tense—a future reality. 

I will be saved from the presence of sin.  My expectation is to be like and with Christ for all eternity. 

the key question:  “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15).  This is the most important question you will ever answer.  If you do not answer it, or answer it incorrectly, you have made the biggest mistake anyone can make!

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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