The process of sanctification is complex. There are so many hard things about it, and so many beautiful things about it. One of the most encouraging verses I have read regarding sanctification is 2 Corinthians 3:18. It says,
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
This verse is absolutely amazing because of what it is saying.
First, the phrase “beholding the glory of the Lord“.
This phrase literally should be rendered, “beholding and reflecting as in a mirror the glory of the Lord“. Now that really helps me understand sanctification more, and encourages me greatly. Here is why:
The verb selected by Paul here is remarkable. When we look into a mirror, we see ourselves. But Paul is saying here that sanctification is like when we look into a mirror, where we are supposed to see ourselves, but we “behold AND reflect” the glory of God. We see the glory of God in the mirror and we are reflecting the glory of God in the mirror (which is ourselves!!).
The important thing to remember here is that this is not for our glory. Further, we have no room to boast in this change in our lives from becoming more and more holy.
Next, the phrase, “are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another“.
This phrase is astounding. As we behold ourselves in the mirror (it is actually God’s glory we behold) and behold and reflect God’s glory, we are being transformed into God’s image. Further, we are being transformed, it is from one degree of glory to another. This phrase means that we are becoming more and more Christ-like continually. This verse does reiterate the process that is sanctification, but it is encouraging because it means the transformation IS certain.
Last, the phrase, “For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
This phrase reminds us that our entire sanctification, while we do work with God to accomplish it, comes from the Lord. If He did not act towards us and provide the means for sanctification, then we would not be able to fulfill our part in the process. Because of this, there is no room for us to boast. Galatians 6:14 says,
“But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
This verse helps me understand more how sure it is that sanctification will happen. God has promised it will happen,
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ“. (Philippians 1:6).
