The NT asserts that when sinners turn to Jesus in repentance and faith (cf. Mark 1:15; Acts 3:16,19; 20:21), they are instantaneously justified and sanctified. This is their new position in Christ. His righteousness has been imputed to them (cf. Gen. 15:6; Romans 4). They are declared right and holy (a forensic act of God).
But the NT also urges believers on to holiness or sanctification. It is both a theological position in the finished work of Jesus Christ and a call to be Christlike in attitude and actions in daily life. As salvation is a free gift and a cost-everything lifestyle, so too, is sanctification.
| Initial Justification and Sanctification | A Progressive Sanctification, Christlikeness |
| Acts 26:18 Romans 15:16 1 Corinthians 1:2-3,30; 6:11 2 Thessalonians 2:13 Hebrews 2:11; 10:10,14; 13:12 1 Peter 1:2 | Romans 6:19 2 Cor. 7:1 Ephesians 1:4; 2:10 1 Thess. 3:13; 4:3-4,7; 5:2 1 Timothy 2:15 2 Timothy 2:21 1 Peter 1:15-16 Hebrews 12:14 |
The goal of salvation is not heaven when we die but Christlikeness now (cf. Rom. 8:28-30; 2 Cor. 3:18; Gal. 4:19; Eph. 1:4; 4:13; 1 Thess. 3:13; 4:3; 5:23; 2 Thess. 2:13; Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 1:15), so that those who see our witness may be drawn to Jesus and go to heaven with us! Sanctification, like justification, is a gift and a choice!
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