The Work of God in Making Saints (Chapter 13, Paragraph 1)

“They who are united to Christ, effectually called, and regenerated…”

Sanctification begins with union to Christ. Only those who are justified and born again can be sanctified. This paragraph reminds us that God initiates our transformation, just as He initiates our salvation.

“…having a new heart and a new spirit created in them through the virtue of Christ’s death and resurrection…”

This echoes Ezekiel 36:26–27. God doesn’t simply reform the old heart—He gives a new one. This supernatural renewal is grounded in Christ’s death (which breaks sin’s power) and resurrection (which supplies new life).

“…are also farther sanctified, really and personally…”

Sanctification is not merely positional or theoretical. It is real, progressive change in the believer’s life. The one who is justified is also being sanctified (Heb. 10:14).

“…through the same virtue, by His Word and Spirit dwelling in them…”

The same power that saved you is the power that sanctifies you—through the Word and the Holy Spirit. These are the primary tools God uses to conform us to Christ (John 17:17; Rom. 8:13).

“…the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed…”

This does not mean sin is eradicated, but that it no longer rules us. Sin remains, but it no longer reigns. The tyranny of sin has been broken (Rom. 6:14).

“…and the several lusts thereof are more and more weakened and mortified…”

Sanctification is progressive. It involves a lifelong weakening of sinful desires and a continual putting to death of the flesh (Col. 3:5).

“…and they more and more quickened and strengthened in all saving graces…”

As sin is mortified, grace is vivified—made alive and active. Love, joy, peace, humility, and holiness grow stronger by the Spirit’s power.

“…to the practice of all true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”

True sanctification produces holiness of life. Though it does not earn salvation, it always accompanies it (Heb. 12:14). God’s people bear God’s likeness.

Application for the Believer:

You are not only saved from the penalty of sin—you are being saved from its power. God is committed to making you holy, and He will not fail. Do not grow discouraged by the slowness of your growth. Sanctification is a long obedience in the same direction. Use the means God has provided—His Word, prayer, the fellowship of the saints, and the Spirit’s guidance. Don’t settle for merely being forgiven—pursue holiness, for this is God’s will for you. Every battle against sin and every step toward righteousness is proof that God is at work in you, and He finishes what He starts.