Grace and Sanctification
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Grace and Sanctification: The Journey of Spiritual Growth
In the Christian life, two foundational concepts often discussed are grace and sanctification. Understanding their relationship is essential for anyone seeking to grow in faith and live a life pleasing to God.
What is Grace?
Grace is the unmerited favor of God towards humanity. It is His free and generous gift that offers forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. Grace is not something we earn by our works; rather, it is given freely because of God’s love and mercy. Ephesians 2:8-9 beautifully captures this truth: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Understanding Sanctification
Sanctification is the process by which believers are made holy, becoming more like Christ in character and conduct. It is both a definitive act and a progressive journey. At the moment of salvation, a believer is set apart for God—this is positional sanctification. However, sanctification also involves ongoing growth and transformation in daily life, where the Holy Spirit works within us to overcome sin and cultivate virtues.
The Relationship Between Grace and Sanctification
Grace is the foundation and fuel of sanctification. It is by grace that we are empowered to change. Sanctification is not about striving harder to earn God’s favor but about responding to His grace with obedience and faith. Philippians 2:12-13 reminds us to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
Through grace, believers receive the strength to resist temptation, grow in love, and bear spiritual fruit. It is a cooperative process where God’s grace enables us, and our cooperation with the Spirit’s work shapes us.
Living Out Grace and Sanctification
Practically, living under grace means embracing humility, recognizing our dependence on God, and trusting Him through the ups and downs of spiritual growth. It involves regular prayer, reading Scripture, participating in community, and practicing spiritual disciplines that nurture our transformation.
Sanctification is not instant; it’s a lifelong journey marked by victories and setbacks. Yet, the assurance of God’s grace gives believers hope and perseverance.
Conclusion
Grace and sanctification are inseparable aspects of the Christian faith. Grace initiates and sustains salvation, while sanctification is the ongoing work of becoming Christlike. Embracing both leads to a vibrant, growing relationship with God, marked by freedom, transformation, and joy. As we walk this path, may we continually rely on God’s grace and allow His Spirit to shape us day by day.
The Spirit Of Life In Christ Ministries believe that by “grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not by works lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) We further believe that the emphasis for a continuous walk in grace should be the emphasis of heart righteousness and purity, believing in the keeping power of God, walking after the Spirit and not after the flesh in a lifestyle that demonstrates the character, standards and convictions of Jesus Christ, not being conformed to the world Jude 1:24; Romans 8:25; Galatians 5:16-25; Romans 4:1-5; 12:1-2.
