Sanctifying (hagiasmós) is to designate something that is set apart for a distinct purpose. For example, a pen has been set aside for the specific purpose of writing. Thus, a pen is sanctified when it is used to write. Any other use of the pen would not be a sanctified use. Accordingly, the Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology defines sanctification as meaning, “to make holy, to free from sin, to purify, or to declare or render something productive of or conducive to holiness, blessing, or grace.” (1) Thus what God deems sanctified is holy, sinless, and pure and is to be used for His intended purposes.
The sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit is critical in the believer’s salvation. Regarding the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying work, William Barclay states, “It is the Holy Spirit who awakens within us the first faint longings for God and goodness. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts us of our sin and leads us to the cross where that sin is forgiven. It is the Holy Spirit who enables us to be freed from the sins which have us in their grip and to gain the virtues which are the fruit of the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who gives us the assurance that our sins are forgiven and that Jesus Christ is Lord.” (2)
Salvation has a divine side and a human side.
ENDNOTES:
The sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit is critical in the believer’s salvation. Regarding the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying work, William Barclay states, “It is the Holy Spirit who awakens within us the first faint longings for God and goodness. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts us of our sin and leads us to the cross where that sin is forgiven. It is the Holy Spirit who enables us to be freed from the sins which have us in their grip and to gain the virtues which are the fruit of the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who gives us the assurance that our sins are forgiven and that Jesus Christ is Lord.” (2)
Salvation has a divine side and a human side.
- …God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. - 2 Thessalonians 2:13
- according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: - 1 Peter 1:2
ENDNOTES:
- Bradford A. Mullen, “Sanctification,” Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, Baker Reference Library (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1996), 708.
- William Barclay, The Letters of James and Peter, 3rd ed. fully rev. and updated., The New Daily Study Bible (Louisville, KY; London: Westminster John Knox Press, 2003), 196.
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