THE JOURNEY OF FAITH: DISTINGUISHING JUSTIFICATION FROM SANCTIFICATION 

I. Introduction

Few ideas in Christian theology arouse as much interest and dispute as justification and sanctification do. Though these terms are foundational to the faith, they often cause confusion due to their intertwined yet distinct natures.

The purpose of this article is to clarify these terms and investigate their distinct yet complementary roles in the spiritual journey of a believer.

II. Justification: The Moment of Salvation

Justification is a legal declaration. When a person believes in Jesus Christ for eternal life, they are immediately justified; their sins are forgiven, and they are credited with Christ’s righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). This aspect underscores that justification is entirely separate from any subsequent actions or moral behavior. It assures believers that their standing before God is secure and unchanging, regardless of their future conduct.

III. Sanctification: The Process of Growth
In contrast to justification, sanctification is a continuous process by which believers grow in holiness and become more like Christ over time. This process begins at the moment of salvation and continues throughout a believer's lifetime. Hebrews 10:14 says, "For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified," implying that while believers are already set apart for God's purposes through justification, they are also constantly being transformed.

IV. Distinguishing Between Justification and Sanctification
The distinction between justification and sanctification is critical in focused Free Grace theology because combining these two concepts can lead to misunderstandings about salvation and Christian life. Justification provides assurance of salvation based solely on faith in Christ; it is not dependent on one's performance or moral standards. In contrast, sanctification describes how a believer lives out their faith after being justified.

Conclusion:
Understanding these distinctions allows believers to appreciate both aspects of their relationship with God without falling into legalism or despair over personal failures in holiness.