- Nov 15, 2006
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I think the process of being "sanctified", or being "set apart", is an ongoing process that lasts our entire natural lives. Scripture makes reference to us "growing", by differentiating between "babes" and "mature" believers. For example;1 Corinthians 3:1-2 (NIV)This scripture indicates that we are in a process. Much like when we were in school, there were things that we could not understand in 1st grade that we could easily understand in 12th grade. Likewise, there are Spiritual things that would have made no sense to me even 2-3 years ago that I can understand and accept freely now.
Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldlymere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.
Hebrews 5:13-14 (NIV)This scripture indicates that there is a "train[ing]" by "constant use" that we go through. It also makes reference to "infant
Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
" not being "acquainted with the teaching about righteousness". IOW, there are things that we will learn as we grow in our relationship with God. Again, this is a process that I believe continues all throughout our natural lives.1 Peter 2:2-3 (NIV)This verse again indicates that we are to "grow up" in our salvation. I believe that can be corroborated here;
Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
Philippians 2:12 (NIV)Both of these verses indicate a process, a continuance of working out our salvation and a growing up. This is what I believe is meant by "sanctification", and is what I mean when I say that sanctification is a "process".
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyednot only in my presence, but now much more in my absencecontinue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
OTOH, "justification" has nothing to do with us. It is only by the Love, Grace and Mercy of Jesus Christ offering Himself as the ultimate Sacrifice for us that we are "justified". All we must do is freely receive the gift that He has given to us to be "justified".

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