Complete English translation
Justification (Justification) & Sanctification (Sanctification)
Justification = Justification
Romans 3:20-26
The action of God that declares a person righteous before Him through faith in Jesus Christ. This is the status that is given directly and completely when someone believes in Christ. In other words, justification is about our position before God—fully justified by His grace.
Justification Keyword: Once for all
Justification gives us peace with God
Sanctification = Sanctification
Hebrews 10:14, Romans 12:1-2, 2 Corinthians 3:18, John 17:17
The process in which a person is increasingly made similar to Christ in their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Sanctification is the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer that lasts a lifetime. If justification is a declaration of law, sanctification is a transformation of character.
Sanctification Keywords: Continuous process
Sanctification helps us live in holiness
Does Philippians 2:12 Teach Us to Strive for Salvation?
Philippians 2:12 is often misunderstood by many sincere and well-meaning Christians. They think that as believers, we must work hard to obtain salvation or that our salvation must be maintained through our own actions.
Let's look at Philippians 2:12-13 to reveal what is actually said. The author of this verse is the apostle Paul, who wrote:
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, as you are always obedient; not only as when I was still present, but even now when I am not present, keep doing your salvation with fear and trembling; because it is God who works in you, both to your will and to work according to His will."
Notice that Paul did NOT SAY, "work for your salvation," but "work out your salvation."
Is this difference important? Of course!
You cannot strive for salvation because the Bible clearly states that salvation is a gift that can only be received through faith in the finished work of Jesus, not through our efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Salvation is God's gift that can only be accepted by faith. (see John 3:16, John 6:40, Romans 10:9-13).
If we interpret "work" as "trying to secure your salvation," then we are implying that believing in Jesus alone is not enough to be saved.
This is a serious mistake because the GOSPEL MUST NOT BE COMPROMISED!
In Philippians 2:12, Paul is speaking to believers who have been saved. He said that we can do our salvation because—see verse 13—God is the one who gave us the will, strength, and even joy to do it. You cannot "do" something that has not been "worked" inside of you. You can only do what God has done in you.
For example, because God has first worked in me by giving an understanding of this Philippians 2:12-13, now I am "working" on my salvation by writing this for you. Salvation—which includes the blessing of healing, salvation, deliverance, and maintenance—is being done from within me for you who are reading this. But I can only do it because God first works in me.
Another thing that will really strengthen you is that the verb "work" in Greek is in the present active continuous form. It means, it is actually said "God is working in you." Friends, when you know that God is always working within you, you don't have to rely on your own efforts and strength to "work" on your salvation—whether in the way you treat your family, live as a witness at work, or in relationships with others.
In fact, this is the key to living in love and honor for His glory. When you feel that you have no desire to love your partner, rebellious children, or difficult co-workers, do not try to love them with your own strength. You will only end up exhausted, frustrated, and feel worse. Instead, rest in the revelation that your loving and powerful Savior is always working in you. Tell Him, "I am not capable, Lord, but You can."
Conclusion: Salvation and Sanctification Go Hand in Hand
Philippians 2:12-13 teaches us that salvation is God's gift, but sanctification is a process in which we work together with God. In sanctification, we see God working in us to transform us to be like Christ. Sanctification is the result of the salvation that has been given to us. When we "work" our salvation, it means that we live our lives with full awareness that the Holy Spirit is guiding, strengthening, and purifying us. This is not an effort to get salvation, but an expression of our living faith. So, do not be afraid of your shortcomings, but believe that God who started the good work in you will finish it (Philippians 1:6). Salvation is the basis, and sanctification is the journey—both are proof of God's love