The Process of Sanctification in the Christian Life: An Exegetical-Theological Study of 1 Thess 4.1-8 and ROM 6.15-23

The role of sanctification in the Christian life lies at the center of many Christian controversies. How does it relate to salvation? Is it a gift that requires responsibility? Does it have any connection to the moral life? This thesis explores Paul’s understanding of and the implications of sanctification as reflected in two significant pericopes (Rom 6, 15-23 and 1Thess 4, 1-8). Other relevant texts are incorporated into this order to arrive at a sound interpretation. Paradoxically, only God sanctifies, however, humans who willingly submit to God, conform to Christ, and are empowered by the Spirit grow in sanctification. Nonetheless, sanctification cannot be reduced to ethics. It remains rooted in relationship with God.