I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.'
Acts 26:17-18

In this last of four installments about what the redeemed receive from God in addition to forgiveness of sins, note the last phrase: “those who are sanctified by faith in Me.” The redeemed are not only justified (declared righteous) when we first believe, but from that point forward in this life we embark on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is the process in which we grow in holiness until we go to be with the Lord and are glorified (actually become righteous in Heaven). How does this happen? Here are two simple answers:.

First, sanctification is a work of the Holy Spirit. It is by His power and grace. Let us trust in and depend on the Holy Spirit.

Second, it happens as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit by applying the ordinary means of grace by which we grow spiritually (e.g., the Word, prayer, the sacraments, and fellowship to name only a few). Let us diligently cooperate with the Holy Spirit. And let us be thankful to Him when we see spiritual growth in our lives.

Forgiveness of sin is followed by lives that progressively experience victory over sin.