The Fruit of Progressive Sanctification

Questions Answered in This Article

What does the Bible say about progressive sanctification?

The Bible teaches that progressive sanctification involves growing in holiness and obedience through God's grace.

Progressive sanctification is an essential aspect of the Christian life, described in various passages of Scripture that emphasize our growth in holiness. It indicates that, as believers, we are transformed into the image of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit. However, this process is not about achieving salvation through our own efforts or measuring our spiritual worth by our apparent holiness. Rather, it is a continuous journey of reliance on God's grace to produce obedience and conformity to Christ's character within us. This understanding keeps us anchored in the truth that our salvation is by grace alone and not by any works we perform.

Romans 6:19, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Philippians 1:6

How do we know sanctification is true?

Sanctification is verified through the transformative work of the Holy Spirit and the evidence of spiritual growth in a believer's life.

The reality of sanctification can be evidenced through the life changes that occur in a believer. As the Holy Spirit indwells us, we begin to see observable fruits of repentance and spiritual growth. This transformation may not be immediate or fully visible but can be seen in the gradual change of desires, attitudes, and behaviors that align closer with Christ. Scripturally, we also see promises like Philippians 1:6, where God assures us that He will complete the good work He began in us. These changes lead to a more profound understanding of God's grace and mercy and foster the desire to pursue holiness—not as a means to earn salvation, but as a response to the grace we have already received.

Philippians 1:6, Galatians 5:22-23, Romans 12:2

Why is progressive sanctification important for Christians?

Progressive sanctification is vital as it reflects our obedience to God and our growth in Christ-likeness.

Progressive sanctification is crucial for Christians because it is both a response to God’s grace and a God-ordained process that leads us to reflect Christ more fully in our lives. While we are justified by faith alone at the moment of conversion, sanctification represents the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in shaping our character and leading us into a deeper relationship with God. It combats legalism by affirming that our spiritual growth does not earn us salvation but is instead evidence of it. This process, rooted in grace, allows us to approach our struggles with sin not with despair, but with hope, understanding that God is actively working to conform us to His likeness.

1 Thessalonians 4:3, Hebrews 12:14, 2 Peter 3:18