The Greek word hagiasmós, represented by G38, denotes purification, a state of purity, or the process of sanctification. It appears 10 times in 10 unique verses in the Bible. The term fundamentally refers to a state of being set apart, translated as both holiness and sanctification.
In scripture, G38 is presented as both a divine action and a human pursuit. It is identified as the will G2307 of God G2316 for believers 1 Thessalonians 4:3 and a prerequisite for seeing the Lord Hebrews 12:14. Paul contrasts holiness with uncleanness G167 1 Thessalonians 4:7, explaining that believers are to yield their members G3196 as servants to righteousness G1343 which results in holiness Romans 6:19. This process bears fruit G2590 unto holiness, with the ultimate end being everlasting G166 life G2222 Romans 6:22. It is also positioned as a core component of salvation, received through Christ who is made unto believers sanctification 1 Corinthians 1:30.
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of sanctification:
- G1343 dikaiosýnē (righteousness): Defined as equity or justification, it is often presented as the path to holiness. Believers are to yield their members as servants to righteousness unto holiness Romans 6:19, and it is a quality to be pursued alongside seeking God's kingdom Matthew 6:33.
- G167 akatharsía (uncleanness): Meaning impurity, this word is frequently set in direct opposition to holiness. God has called believers not to uncleanness, but unto holiness 1 Thessalonians 4:7. Believers who were once servants to uncleanness are now to yield themselves to righteousness Romans 6:19.
- G4151 pneûma (spirit): This term for a spirit is crucial, as sanctification is presented as a work of the Spirit. Believers are chosen for salvation through sanctification of the Spirit 2 Thessalonians 2:13 and are called unto obedience through the same process 1 Peter 1:2.
The theological weight of G38 is central to the Christian life, marking the believer's progressive separation from sin and dedication to God.
- The Will of God: Sanctification is explicitly stated to be the will G2307 of God for every believer, involving a call to abstain G567 from moral impurity like fornication G4202 1 Thessalonians 4:3.
- A Divine Gift: Christ Jesus has been made unto believers wisdom G4678, righteousness G1343, sanctification G38, and redemption G629 from God 1 Corinthians 1:30.
- The Work of the Spirit: The process of sanctification is not achieved by human effort alone but is a work of the Spirit G4151. Believers are chosen for salvation G4991 through the sanctification of the Spirit and belief G4102 of the truth G225 2 Thessalonians 2:13.
- A Prerequisite for Fellowship: A state of holiness is presented as essential for intimacy with God. Scripture states that without G5565 holiness, no one will see G3700 the Lord Hebrews 12:14.
In summary, G38 encapsulates the concept of being set apart for God. It is more than an abstract ideal; it is a practical state of purity and holiness that is part of God's will for believers. Achieved through the work of the Spirit and pursued through obedience G5218 to righteousness, sanctification stands in stark contrast to uncleanness and is intrinsically linked to the believer's ultimate hope of seeing the Lord and inheriting everlasting life.
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