James H. Cagle
Sanctification is the act of setting a person or thing apart for holy things. The primary meaning of the word “sanctify” is to “cut off,” to separate from common or ordinary use to a unique relationship with God and service to Him. In Christendom it means to “set apart” for God’s use. Aaron was sanctified as the high priest. The Tabernacle with all the vessels and instruments was sanctified. Israel was sanctified unto the Lord as well.
The Church, the Bride of Christ is sanctified. Its members are call “saints” or “sanctified ones” and by an act of faith have trusted in Christ and are dedicated by their vital union with Him (Acts 9: 13; Rom. 1: 7; 1 Cor. 1: 1; Eph. 1: 1; Phil. 1: 1; Col. 1: 2).
While the primary meaning of the word sanctification has been “separation” it is important to understand it also has a moral significance. Since God is holy He uses that which is holy. Thus we have the qualification and standards for God’s people and His ministers (Lev. 20: 7, 8; Ps. 4: 3; 2 Cor. 6: 14-18; 2 Tim. 2: 19, 21; 1 Pet. 1: 15, 16; et al).
The term “saint” and “sanctified ones” as used in the New Testament is synonymous with regeneration and justification. This is called initial or positional sanctification and is deliverance or liberation from the power of sin, and happens at regeneration. It’s positional, complete, forever settled, and has to do with our standing in Christ, becoming members of God’s family, and being translated into His kingdom (Col. 1: 13).
Progressive sanctification, which is deliverance or liberation from the practice of sin, is incomplete, an ongoing process, as we walk in obedience, having our character changed to be like Christ’ in which we are transformed into His likeness (Rom. 12: 1, 2).
Finally there’s ultimate sanctification, which is deliverance and liberation from the presence of sin, receiving a body like Christ’, going to be with Christ, and being transported into His Presence at the Rapture (1 Cor. 15: 51-57; Rom. 8: 30).
Paul shows all three areas of sanctification in Philippians chapter three. He shows his positional sanctification in Philippians 3: 1-7. He left a religious system based on works to trust in Christ’ finished work for his salvation. He shows us progressive sanctification in verses 8-14, with verse 14 summing up what it means; “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” He then shows us ultimate sanctification in verses 20 and 21 where he speaks of his body as will all Christians being changed into the likeness of Christ’ at the Rapture.
