Sanctification starts with being born again. The Spirit of God instills a new, living principle in us, transforming us into new creatures in Christ Jesus. This process begins at regeneration and continues in two ways: mortification, where the desires of the flesh are subdued, and vivification, where the life God plants within us becomes a spring welling up to eternal life.

Everyday this ongoing process is seen in perseverance, as Christians are kept in a state of grace and grow in good works, bringing praise and glory to God. It reaches its completion in glory when the soul is fully purified and caught up to live with the holy at the right hand of God. While it is the Spirit who sanctifies us, there is an important tool used in this process: God's Word. Jesus prayed, "Sanctify them by your truth: your word is truth." Scripture teaches that God's Word is essential for holiness.

The Spirit brings the teachings of truth to our minds and applies them powerfully. These truths, when heard and accepted in our hearts, work in us to do God's will. God's Word sanctifies us, and without hearing or reading it, we won't grow in holiness. Our growth in faith matches our growth in understanding. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Never dismiss errors as mere opinions. If we accept errors in judgment, we will eventually accept errors in conduct. Hold firm to the truth, for in doing so, you are sanctified by the Spirit of God.