The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

SANCTIFICATION

Sanctification is simply the process of becoming more like God. Believers become more like him in holiness out of gratitude to God for what he’s done in their lives. The Greek word “sanctify” means “to set apart” for God’s special plans. Paul urged the new believers in Thessalonica to live this kind of life, outlining that it was God’s will for them to walk with Jesus, thus pleasing God with their lives (1Th 4:1, 3). He expressed that holy living is very practical and that rejecting the instruction of God brings consequences (v. 8). God has called his people to make daily choices through a different lens: the lens of gospel truth.

When someone puts their faith in Christ, he or she has been sanctified, or “made holy” through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ once and for all (Heb 10:10). Sin is completely wiped away, death is defeated and eternal life is at hand. This is the good news! At the same time, the believer enters into a lifelong process of being purified and becoming more like God through the power of the Holy Spirit (1Th 4:8). Paul echoes this reality, declaring that God would sanctify the Thessalonians “through and through,” and keep them “blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1Th 5:23).

Followers of Jesus today can hold on to that promise, for “the one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it” (1Th 5:24).

Jesus, thank you for the work you are doing in my heart and in my life. Please continue to sanctify me until that day when I join you in paradise. Amen.