Sanctification: Catechism (Questions 48-50)

Sanctification—Growing in Holiness (Questions 48-50)
Date: March 12, 2025

While justification declares us righteous before God, sanctification is the process by which we are made holy, growing in the likeness of Christ. Many people today view personal change as self-improvement or moral enhancement, but Christian sanctification is deeper—it is God’s transformative work in us by the power of the Holy Spirit. The catechism teaches that sanctification begins with regeneration, when we are born again by the Spirit and given a new heart and new desires (Q48).

Sanctification is both a decisive act and an ongoing process. When we come to faith, we are set apart as God’s holy people, but we must continually grow in holiness through repentance, faith, and obedience. The Holy Spirit empowers us to resist sin and live in righteousness, producing the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, and other Christlike virtues (Q49-50). This journey of transformation is marked by dependence on God’s grace, prayer, study of Scripture, and participation in the life of the Church.

To explore this call to holiness, reflect on questions 48-50 in the catechism. They show how God’s grace not only forgives us but also changes us from the inside out.

1. Examine areas in your life where God is calling you to grow in holiness and take steps to pursue spiritual maturity.
2. Rely on the Holy Spirit daily for strength to overcome sin and to grow in the character of Christ.

Transform Our Heart Through Prayer:
Holy Father, thank You for not only saving us but also sanctifying us. Help us to grow in holiness, to love what You love, and to reflect Your character in all we do. By Your Spirit, empower us to resist temptation and to live in joyful obedience. Make us more like Christ each day. Amen.