VIII. Sanctification
We believe that entire sanctification is the work of God and the power of the Holy Spirit making the believer pure in heart and totally committed and dedicated to God. This work is both instantaneous and gradual (or progressive). It begins when a person is saved and continues throughout life. But there is a second definite work of grace after salvation, a time when the believer is convicted of a “lukewarm Christian life” and looks to Christ with a total commitment and dedication to “Christ-like” living. There is no black-and-white time line involved; for some this occurs soon following salvation, for others much time elapses. But for all believers, sanctification is the will of God. Sanctification is the point in life when a believer renounces the desire to live for self and desires to live totally for the glory of God. The believer is then empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling him to live a life of holiness. This does not mean perfection of the believer, but purity of heart, soul, and mind.