The Scriptures emphasize two aspects of the doctrine of Salvation that should not be separated, but that also cannot be confused one with the other: Justification and Sanctification. Observe the following columns:
Justification Sanctification
Objective Subjective
For us In us
By Christ By the Holy Spirit
Root / Base Fruit / Result
Christ our substitute Christ our example
“Done” “Do”
Imputed Communicated
Fulfilled Ongoing
In an instant Throughout our lifespan
Without our participation With our participation
Title Adjustment
Change of status Change of life
Many people mix up the first column with the second, and, just as in the dark ages, end up with the idea that justification depends upon sanctification. However, as the bible leads us to believe, when it comes to justification, we do not have any contribution. That’s right, nothing, zero. To be precise, we do contribute with one thing: our sin, from which we must be freed. Justification is divine work, based on what Christ has already done for us, not that which we can do by and for ourselves. If it were something we deserved, then it would be a salary.
In Justification, by grace, God attributes justice, recognizes and declares him or her that, by faith, believes in Jesus Christ. It is as if a millionaire accepted to join his account with my bankrupt account. His fortune would immediately become mine also. Simple? Yes! Believe it! Christ’s great fortune becomes yours! That is grace!
On the other hand, Sanctification is an ongoing process that lasts our whole life. It will never be complete, at least not here on this side of eternity. It is also by grace, although our participation is required, as an answer to what He has done for us. By justifying us, He separates us to be sanctified. Sanctification will never be complete, because there will always be room for growth. We will never come to a day where we will not need to pray the Lord’s Prayer: “…forgive us our sins…”