Salvation, is a beautiful and multi-faceted gift from God, encompassing our past, present, and future and can be understood in three distinct yet interconnected aspects: justification, sanctification, and glorification.
Justification is the first aspect of our salvation and it deals with the past. It is God's gracious act of declaring sinners righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1 tells us, "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace signifies the removal of guilt and the penalty of sin. In justification, we are forgiven and made right with God, not by our own works, but by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. As Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."
Sanctification, the second aspect of our salvation, addresses the present. It is the ongoing process by which believers are made holy, set apart for God's purposes, and empowered to overcome the power of sin in their daily lives. Philippians 2:12-13 encourages us, "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure." This process involves our active cooperation with the Holy Spirit as we grow in Christlikeness. Paul elaborates on this in Romans 6:22, saying, "But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life." Through sanctification, we experience a transformation that aligns our lives more closely with God's will.
The final aspect, glorification, pertains to the future. It is the ultimate completion of our salvation when we are delivered from the presence of sin entirely. This will occur when Christ returns, and believers receive their glorified bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:52-53 describes this momentous event: "In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." Glorification is the culmination of our hope, where we will forever be in the presence of God, free from sin and its effects. As Revelation 21:4 beautifully assures us, "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."
In summary, salvation in the Bible is a comprehensive journey that begins with justification, continues through sanctification, and culminates in glorification. Each aspect reveals God's immense love and commitment to redeeming and transforming us. As we reflect on these truths, let us be filled with gratitude and inspired to live lives that honor Him, trusting in His promise to bring to completion the good work He has begun in us (Philippians 1:6).
Add comment
Comments