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What does the Bible say about progressive sanctification?

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The Bible teaches that progressive sanctification is often misunderstood, being seen as man's efforts under the law rather than the work of Christ within believers.

Progressive sanctification is commonly taught as the believer's duty to become holy through adherence to the law, which implies that true holiness can be achieved through works. However, this perspective overlooks the fundamental truth of sovereign grace which asserts that sanctification is not by our works but through our union with Christ. As Paul writes in Philippians 3:8-9, he counts all his previous religious qualifications as loss compared to knowing Christ, emphasizing that righteousness comes through faith in Christ, not from the law. Therefore, the true progression connected to sanctification lies in our consistent apprehension of the gospel of grace, where we recognize that it is God who works in us, enabling us through His Spirit to grow in holiness.
Scripture References: Philippians 3:8-9, Romans 8:29-30, Romans 7, Ephesians 4:24, 1 John 1:8, 10, Romans 3:23, Romans 7:18, Job 42:6, Romans 6:19, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Philippians 1:6

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Romans 8:1
Mikal Smith · Nov 2, 2025

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Joshua

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