| Feature | Justification | Sanctification |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Legal standing / Declaration | Internal transformation / Growth |
| Timing | Instantaneous (at conversion) | Progressive (lifelong process) |
| Agent | God alone (Monergistic) | God and Man (Synergistic) |
| Result | Freedom from the penalty of sin | Freedom from the power of sin |
Justification is about being 'made right' in the eyes of God, often described as a courtroom setting where the believer is declared 'not guilty' because of Christ.
Sanctification is the subsequent process where the Holy Spirit works within the believer to produce moral character and holiness, aligning their life with God's will.
Protestant Traditions: Generally emphasize (Faith Alone), teaching that salvation is received through belief without the necessity of ritual works.
Catholic & Orthodox Traditions: View salvation as a process integrated with the Sacraments (such as Baptism and the Eucharist). They emphasize that faith must be 'formed by love' and expressed through good works.
Evangelicalism: Focuses heavily on the 'born again' experience, emphasizing a personal, conscious decision to follow Christ and the active role of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life.
Distinguish Grace from Works: Examiners often test whether students understand that grace is the source of salvation, while works are often viewed as the evidence or fruit of it.
The Role of the Resurrection: Do not focus solely on the Crucifixion. Ensure you explain that the Resurrection is what validates the sacrifice and provides the hope of eternal life.
Avoid Universalism Confusion: While God's grace is often described as 'available to all,' most Christian doctrines specify that it must be 'received' through faith or sacraments; avoid stating that everyone is automatically saved regardless of response.
