The same Hebrew and Greek words are translated "sanctification" and "holiness." The root idea is always some person or thing which is set apart for God.

1. Sanctification is positional
   Sanctification is that work of Christ for the believer which sets him apart for God.
   • Hebrews 10:10 - "Sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all"
   • Hebrews 3:1 - "Holy brethren"
   • 1Corinthians 1:2 - "Sanctified in Christ Jesus," But not sinlessly perfect (see 1Corinthians 3:1-3).
   • John 17:8-10 - "They have believed... all Mine are Thine"
2. Sanctification is progressive
   Sanctification is that work of God in the believer through the Spirit and the Word which progressively changes him into the image of Christ.
   • John 17:17 - "Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth"
   • Ephesians 5:25 - "Loved the church, and gave Himself for it"
   • Ephesians 5:26 - "That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word"
   • 2Corinthians 7:1 - "Let us cleanse ourselves... perfecting holiness"
   • Hebrews 12:7-10 - "Chastened us... that we might be partakers of His holiness"
   • 1Peter 5:10 - "God of all grace... make you perfect"
   • 2Corinthians 3:18 - "Beholding... are changed... from glory to glory"
3. Sanctification will be perfected
   Sanctification is that work of God which perfects the believer into the likeness of Christ by His appearing in glory.
   • Ephesians 5:27 - "That He might present it to Himself... not having spot, or wrinkle... but that it should be holy"
   • 1John 3:1,2 - "Now are we the sons... when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is"

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