If God has given us new life in Christ, why do we still struggle with sin?

That question troubles many sincere Christians. We know we have been saved, yet temptation remains. Old habits sometimes return. Spiritual growth can seem painfully slow. Does the continuing struggle mean something went wrong when we were saved?

In this episode of Written and Read, McKenzie Fleming and Dr. Robert C. Crowder explore the biblical doctrine of sanctification and the encouraging answer Scripture gives to that question. Beginning with Paul’s declaration, “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification,” they examine how God continues the work He began when He saved us.

Through passages including 1 Thessalonians 4, Romans 12, Galatians 5, and Philippians 1, they consider the believer’s continuing battle with sin, the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, the importance of God’s Word, and the believer’s responsibility to yield to God in faith and obedience.

Regeneration gives us spiritual life. Sanctification is God developing that life. The Christian life is not instant perfection, but continuing growth as God patiently shapes His children into the likeness of Jesus Christ.

Scripture References

1 Thessalonians 4:3–7; Romans 12:1–2; John 17:17; Romans 6:11–14; Romans 7:18–25; Romans 8:29; Galatians 5:16–17, 22–25; Philippians 1:6; Philippians 2:12–13; 2 Corinthians 3:18