Have you given any thought to God’s work of sanctification in your life? Do you believe that now that you are a Christian, the Holy Spirit will begin to purge your life of sins and self-love? Have you struggled with finding balance in your understanding of the work of sanctification?

What is sanctification? What do we mean when we use this term when referring to the Christian journey? In the Old Testament and in the New Testament, the term means, to make holy by consecration, to be set apart for the glory of God. When we use this term we are referring to the process whereby the Spirit of God is purging our lives of sins and all things that do not bring Him glory. This process includes changing our attitude and desires to match His so that we do not miss these things but desire to be made more and more to please Him.

Some believe that our sanctification is completed through sacrificial human effort; while others believe that we are sanctified by God alone, without any effort from the believer. But Scripture teaches a joint effort by the believer and God. These verses (vs. 22-28) are the summation of this whole section. Paul has been giving in rapid succession his closing commandments for the health of the church. 

Philippians 2:12–13 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (ESV)