Sanctification is evidenced by the regeneration of believers and their transformation into Christ's likeness, as described in Scripture.
The truth of sanctification is rooted in the experience of spiritual rebirth. In John 3, Jesus speaks of being born again, which is essential for renewal. When a person is genuinely converted, they receive a new nature and begin to reflect Christ's image in their character and actions. This transformative process is often illustrated in Paul’s letters where he contrasts the old nature with the new, emphasizing the believer's ongoing work of mortification and life in the Spirit (Romans 8:13). The presence of the Holy Spirit within believers is both a promise and a means of their sanctification, continuously working in them to produce fruits reflective of Christ.
Scripture References:
John 3:3-7, Romans 8:13, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Romans 5:5, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4, Philippians 1:6, 1 Peter 1:15-16
Commentary