1. sanctification — the act of becoming more personally dedicated to God; especially by becoming more distinct, devoted, or morally pure. Related Topics: Reform; Awe; Holiness; Purification; Hallow; Clean; Dedicate; Sanctify; Ceremonial Holiness; Regulations Concerning Cleanness and Uncleanness. [1]
I wasn’t entirely sure whether or not to put this under Big Words of the Bible or Big Words of Theology. Sanctification definitely fits into both categories.
On one hand, sanctification is the theological concept of God not only declaring us as righteous, but also progressively making us righteous. God sets us apart for Himself and frees us from the sins that we get caught up in. This process does not happen in a single moment but is the continual work of God throughout our lives. [2]
In its Biblical usage, sanctify/sanctification is closely related (even interchangeable) with holy/holiness, and is a theme throughout the entire Bible.
In the Old Testament sanctification almost always references a person or thing that is set apart and used in the service or worship of God. This theme of use and service carries into the New Testament, but with an emphasis on the transformation that takes place in a believer’s life through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Do we have any influence in the process of sanctification?
The Holy Spirit is the force behind our sanctification. We cannot become more Christ-like through will-power and gritted teeth; however, we have to be open to the work of the Spirit and be willing to live a life that is Christ-like and obedient to God. If we close ourselves off to God - not participating in prayer, Bible reading, and meeting with other believers - we will remain just as we are.
Bible Verses (English Standard Version):
Ezekiel 36:25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.
1 Thessalonians 5:19-24 Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
[1] from Lexham Research Lexicon of the Greek New Testament
[2] Calhoun, S. (2018). Sanctification. In M. Ward, J. Parks, B. Ellis, & T. Hains (Eds.), Lexham Survey of Theology. Lexham Press.