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Sanctification
The
generic meaning is The state of proper functioning. To sanctify
someone or something is to set that person or thing apart for the use
intended by its designer. A pen is sanctified when used to write.
Eyeglasses are sanctified when used to improve sight.
In the Biblical sense, things are sanctified when they
are used for the purpose God intends. A person is sanctified when
he/she lives according to God's design and purpose.
The Greek word translated sanctification means holiness,
to make holy. God calls us to be holy...to set ourselves apart
for a specific purpose. Sanctify, therefore, becomes a synonym for trust
and obey. (Isaiah 29:23)
We are made holy through Christ's work, our faithfulness.
The law of Christ (Galatians 6:2) is synonymous with the moral
demands God places on all humanity. We sanctify God's law by obeying
it.
A person is sanctified the moment he/she is in Christ.
(Ephesians 1:3) Although it is lived in the context of temptation and
suffering, the sanctified life is victorious. (Romans 8:37)
Biblical self-denial is not withholding pleasure or
causing pain as an inherent means of spiritual growth. It is placing
the interests of God before the interests of self. Believers do not
deny or ridicule legitimate human desires. But, these desires need to
be continually prioritized. (Matthew 6:33)
Sanctification is growth in righteousness, attitudes, and
behavior. The believer presses on to take hold by faith on the
promises of God. (Philippians 3:12)
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