Article XVI

Article 16 – Sanctification

1. Sanctification is a progressive work of the Holy Spirit in the believer.
   1. 2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
2. That purifies the life.
   1. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
3. Conforms the whole man to the image of Christ as the Word of God is believed and obeyed.
   1. John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
4. It begins at regeneration.
   1. 1 Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
5. Continues throughout the believer’s life on earth.
   1. Ephesians 4:24, 26, 27 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.
6. Reaches its completion at the appearance of the Lord Jesus Christ.
   1. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.