Final answer:
Justification and sanctification are two theological concepts used in Christianity, particularly in Protestant theology. Justification refers to being declared righteous by God through faith in Jesus Christ, while sanctification refers to the ongoing process of being made holy and transformed into the image of Christ.
Step-by-step explanation:
Justification and sanctification are two theological concepts used in Christianity, particularly in Protestant theology. These terms describe the process of salvation and growth in faith.
Justification refers to being declared righteous by God through faith in Jesus Christ, while sanctification refers to the ongoing process of being made holy and transformed into the image of Christ.
Justification
Justification is a legal term that signifies being declared righteous or justified before God. It is the act by which God forgives our sins and counts us as righteous because of our faith in Jesus Christ.
This righteous standing is not earned by our good works or efforts, but it is a gift of God's grace. Justification is based on the finished work of Jesus on the cross and is received by faith alone.
Sanctification
Sanctification, on the other hand, refers to the process of becoming holy and set apart for God's purposes. It is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer to conform them to the image of Christ. Unlike justification, which is a one-time event, sanctification is a lifelong process of growth in holiness.
It involves surrendering to God's will, cultivating spiritual disciplines, and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our desires and actions.