Sanctification is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, referring to the process by which believers are set apart for God's purposes and transformed into the likeness of Christ. This transformation is both a definitive act and a progressive journey, involving the work of the Holy Spirit and the believer's cooperation.

The term "sanctification" is derived from the Greek word "hagiasmos," which means holiness or consecration. In the New Testament, sanctification is presented as an essential aspect of the Christian life. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 , Paul writes, "For it is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You should avoid sexual immorality; each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable."

Sanctification is both positional and progressive. Positional sanctification occurs at the moment of salvation, when a believer is declared holy through the righteousness of Christ. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." This initial sanctification sets the believer apart as belonging to God.

Progressive sanctification, on the other hand, is the ongoing process of spiritual growth and moral purification. It involves the believer's active participation in pursuing holiness, as seen in Philippians 2:12-13 : "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure."

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in sanctification, empowering believers to overcome sin and grow in righteousness. Galatians 5:16 encourages believers to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Spirit's indwelling presence enables believers to bear the fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23.

Sanctification is also closely linked to the Word of God. Jesus prayed in John 17:17 , "Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth." The Scriptures serve as a guide and a means of transformation, renewing the mind and shaping the character of the believer.

Preparation

Preparation in the biblical context often refers to the readiness and equipping of believers for spiritual growth, service, and the return of Christ. It encompasses both personal spiritual discipline and communal readiness as part of the body of Christ.

The concept of preparation is evident in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the parables. In Matthew 25:1-13 , the Parable of the Ten Virgins emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the coming of the bridegroom, symbolizing Christ's return. The wise virgins, who had oil for their lamps, were ready and entered the wedding feast, while the foolish ones were left out. This parable underscores the necessity of spiritual vigilance and readiness.

Preparation also involves equipping oneself with the armor of God, as described in Ephesians 6:10-18 . Believers are called to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This preparation is essential for spiritual warfare and standing firm in faith.

In addition to personal readiness, preparation includes the equipping of the church for ministry. Ephesians 4:11-12 states, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ." This equipping is vital for the effective functioning and growth of the church.

Preparation is also a theme in the life of John the Baptist, who was sent to prepare the way for the Lord. In Luke 1:17 , it is said of John, "And he will go on before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."

Overall, preparation in the biblical sense involves a state of readiness, both individually and corporately, for the fulfillment of God's purposes and the anticipation of Christ's return.