Eternally Catholic

Justification & Sanctification

Create a clean heart in me, O God:
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy face;
and take not thy holy spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation,
and strengthen me with a perfect spirit.
Psalm 50, 12-14

You should put away the old self of your former way of life,
corrupted through deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit
of your minds, and put on the new self, created in God’s way
in righteousness and holiness of truth.
Ephesians 4, 22-24

In traditional Catholic doctrine, the concepts of infused righteousness and justification are intricately linked to faith, the performance of good works, and are deeply rooted in the principles of charity and divine grace. This belief system emphasizes that God initiates a profound transformation within individuals, enabling them to transcend their previous states of sin and alienation. As a result of this transformation, believers are called to shed their old ways of life, characterized by selfishness and immorality, while adopting a new identity that reflects the virtues and moral characteristics of Christ.

Central to this understanding is the faithful’s active participation in their own justification. Catholics believe that through a cooperative relationship with the Holy Spirit, individuals willingly engage in the process of sanctification by aligning their actions with God’s will. This collaboration manifests as a commitment to performing good works, which are seen not merely as optional tasks but as essential expressions of one’s faith and love for God and others.

Moreover, the significance of human free will is underscored in this doctrine, highlighting that individuals are not passive recipients of grace but rather active agents in their journey of salvation. This perspective maintains that while God’s grace is universal and freely given, it is through the choices and cooperation of believers that they fully participate in the redemptive reality of salvation. Thus, the intertwining of faith, works, grace, and free will illustrates a holistic approach to one’s spiritual life, inviting Catholics to embrace both belief and action in their quest for holiness.

Since ancient times, the Catholic Church has upheld the belief that active participation in divine grace is essential for spiritual growth and transformation. This concept underscores the necessity for individuals to renew their minds and hearts, striving to embody the righteousness of Christ, who, in His shared humanity, serves as a model for moral living. The extent to which people renounce their former selves, marked by sin and immorality, and work to overcome ingrained sinful habits directly influences their spiritual standing before God.

Catholics believe that this transformative journey is not solely a personal endeavor but a collaborative process with the Holy Spirit. By responding to the grace offered through faith and the sacraments, individuals are empowered to follow Christ’s commandments more faithfully. This collaboration requires a commitment to prayer, engaging in the sacraments, and practicing virtues such as love, patience, and forgiveness. Ultimately, one’s intrinsic righteousness or unrighteousness is determined by how effectively they embrace this gift of divine grace and cultivate a life that reflects the teachings of Christ. This perspective encourages continuous self-examination and growth, aiming for a deeper relationship with God and a more Christ-like way of living.

Justification, as understood within the context of Christian theology, particularly in the Catholic tradition, is a complex and multi-faceted process through which individuals are recognized as righteous in the eyes of God. This acknowledgment is made possible through the regenerative power of God’s efficacious grace, which is often defined as the divine assistance given by God for regenerating and sanctifying the soul. Since the time of the apostles, the Catholic Church has maintained that justification extends beyond the mere act of forgiveness of sins or the lifting of guilt; it also includes the integral aspects of sanctification and renewal of the individual. This ongoing transformation requires a deliberate and conscious effort to detach from habitual sins and worldly attachments, which, in turn, aids in the elimination of the state of guilt.

Justification entails a profound purification of the soul, achieved through sincere contrition—an earnest repentance grounded in a genuine sorrow for one’s sins—and a steadfast commitment to personal change and moral improvement. The grace of sanctification, bestowed by the Holy Spirit, imparts a divine quality to the human soul, facilitating an internal transformation that aligns one’s will with God’s.

Furthermore, justification involves pivotal elements of reconciliation and healing, which are made possible through the intercession of the Holy Spirit. This transformative process empowers believers to share in the divine nature, fostering a deep relationship with God and leading to personal justification. In this context, believers experience growth in holiness and virtue through the sanctifying grace provided by the Holy Spirit—a grace that not only restores but elevates the human experience, enabling individuals to live in accordance with God’s will.

It is I, I, who wipe out, for my own sake, your offenses;
your sins I remember no more.
Isaiah 43, 25

The process of spiritual transformation is a deep and dynamic journey that involves God actively “blotting out” (exalipho) our transgressions, “washing” (apolouo) us from our iniquities, and “cleansing” (katharitzo) us from our sins. This divine intervention is not a mere act of mercy; it requires an authentic inner change of heart, accompanied by a contrite spirit, as emphasized in several scripture passages, including Psalm 51:1-2, where the psalmist pleads for cleansing and renewal, and Acts 3:19, which calls for repentance leading to the erasure of sins. Similarly, Acts 22:16 urges believers to be baptized for the washing away of their sins, while 1 Corinthians 6:11 reassures the faithful that they have been sanctified and justified in the name of Jesus. In 1 John 1:7 and 9, the promise of purification is reiterated, indicating that confession leads to forgiveness and cleansing by the blood of Christ.

When God regards us as holy and just, it is not simply an exercise in overlooking our failings; rather, it is a transformative act whereby He removes the stains of sin from our souls. This change transpires in response to a genuine change of heart that unfolds through the dual processes of conversion and repentance. The role of the Holy Spirit is vital in this transformation, as He facilitates the gifts of grace that empower believers to pursue righteousness.

It’s crucial to understand that our sins are not merely brushed aside or covered over by Christ’s merits. Instead, His righteousness is actively “communicated to us” through the infused grace that fundamentally alters our nature, thereby making us just and pleasing to God. While human beings can never fully attain the divine righteousness exemplified by Christ, the righteousness that God attributes to us is qualitatively similar, echoing His perfect holiness and justice. St. Paul underscores this divine expectation in Philippians 2:5, where he advises, “You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had,” thus highlighting the imperative for believers to embody Christ-like virtues in their daily lives. This call to reflect the character of Christ emphasizes the ongoing nature of spiritual transformation, urging us to pursue a deeper relationship with God and a commitment to living out His teachings in a world desperately in need of His light.

While the initial grace of forgiveness and justification is a unique gift that only Christ can merit on our behalf, individuals possess the ability to “merit for themselves and for others an increase in sanctification.” This notion underscores the collaborative aspect of faith, where, through our actions and prayers, we can contribute to our spiritual growth and that of others. Such an increase in sanctification is vital for completing the journey of justification and deepening one’s personal relationship with God, as believers strive to “grow in grace and charity,” as indicated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church’s teachings on Justification and Grace.

Additionally, the infusion of God’s grace into our souls is transformative. It signifies that believers are not only declared righteous in the eyes of God but are actively “made” (kathistemi) righteous. This divine grace brings about a profound and genuine change of heart and an ontological transformation in our very nature and being. This change is eloquently supported by scriptural references, such as Romans 5:17 and 19, which highlight how grace empowers individuals to overcome sin and embody a new life in accordance with God’s will. This process signifies a dynamic synergy between divine grace and human response, leading to genuine spiritual renewal and the embodiment of Christ-like virtues.

But when the kindness and generous love of God our savior appeared,
not because of any righteous deeds we had done but because of his mercy,
he saved us through the bath of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,
whom he richly poured out on us through Jesus Christ our savior, so that
we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life.
Titus 3, 4-7

Embracing the concept of putting on the new self begins with a foundational belief in God and His promises, which serve as the bedrock of our faith. This foundational understanding requires not just an acknowledgment of God’s existence but a deep, personal relationship characterized by love, trust, and faithfulness. Such a relationship is essential for inviting the Holy Spirit to take an active role in our lives. This invitation is a pivotal moment, enabling the Holy Spirit to guide us toward living a life that reflects faith, devotion, and the principles of love and compassion.

As we invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts, we embark on a transformative journey aimed at overcoming our flawed human nature. This transformation empowers us to aspire to “share in the divine nature,” a notion that emphasizes our call to reflect God’s character and attributes in our daily interactions. In doing so, we actively work to break free from the entrapments of our “evil desires” that arise in a “corrupt world.” Recognizing the challenges posed by societal influences, it becomes imperative to consciously enhance our faith by incorporating virtues into our lives.

This enhancement can include the pursuit of knowledge, which helps us deepen our understanding of Scripture and God’s will. Self-control, a vital virtue that encompasses temperance and moderation, is critical for resisting the temptations of excess and impulsive behavior that often arise from our desires. Furthermore, endurance—an unwavering perseverance during trials—strengthens our faith and cultivates resilience in the face of adversity.

The journey of spiritual growth is not solely for personal enrichment; it also deepens our devotion to God while inspiring us to extend genuine care for the interests of others. This love, which embodies unconditional support, becomes a powerful testament to faith in action. It flourishes in an environment of acceptance and encouragement, sustained by a steadfast commitment to perseverance in faith. Ultimately, our spiritual evolution not only enriches our relationship with God but also transforms us into beacons of hope and love in a world that often desperately needs both.

The infused theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity manifested by how we conduct our lives in the Spirit bear fruit (merit) that lasts to eternal life in and through the merits of our Lord and Saviour. We baptized members of Christ’s body, united with the Head, mustn’t slumber or be idle in our knowledge of the Lord, who has taught us how to live a life in grace as adopted children of God. We shall “never stumble” if we “make our call to the election firm” through the perseverance of faith. Those who do stumble gravely risk being barred from “entering God’s heavenly kingdom” (2 Pet 1:3-11).

Indeed, St. Augustine wisely teaches us that it is insufficient for us to be merely and formally declared justified based solely on the merits of Christ’s righteousness. To truly inherit the kingdom of heaven and be deemed just in the eyes of God, we must cultivate a righteousness of our own, which is developed through divine grace—grace made accessible to us through the meritorious work of our Lord Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. This righteousness cannot be passive; it necessitates our active cooperation with God in His dispensation of grace. We are called to bear fruit that endures and leads to eternal life. As stated in the Gospel, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven will enter” (Mt 7:21). This underscores the importance of aligning our actions with God’s will, highlighting that mere verbal acknowledgment of Christ is inadequate for our salvation.

God justly declares us to be inherently righteous and just in His sight, not due to any merit of our own but because of the transformative work He has completed in us through our collaboration with His grace (Ephesians 2:8-10). This partnership with the divine is essential; through our faith, combined with our works that reflect that faith, we fulfill our heavenly calling and cultivate a relationship with God that leads to eternal life.

Saving faith is characterized by active participation on our part. Simply having belief and knowledge is insufficient for achieving justification. Engaging in good works, particularly those driven by charity and grace, is essential for fulfilling our faith and positively impacting our souls. Through spiritual sacrifices and acts of self-denial, we replace our selfish desires with what aligns with God’s will. This process helps us to diminish our excessive self-love in favor of God’s love and goodness. Such actions are meritorious because they stem from divine grace. God considers us just because that aligns with His original intention, but this requires us to respond sincerely and invite the Holy Spirit to work within us.

You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ;
you have fallen away from grace. For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith
the righteousness for which we hope. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision
nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith
expressing itself through love.
Galatians 5, 4-6

To comprehend faith as an active and instrumental element in our salvation, it is essential to recognize how divine grace functions in our lives and contributes to our salvation with our cooperation. Faith serves as the initial step in the process of justification before God. It manifests concretely as we act upon the wisdom and knowledge we have received, grounding our trust in God and maintaining hope in His promises. These two theological virtues—faith and hope—allow us to be receptive to God’s grace, leading to the continual renewal of our minds and hearts. This transformative journey is described as becoming a new creation in Christ through the pursuit of virtuous living. Embracing a life of self-denial and rejecting the prevailing spirit of the world involves a sincere conversion of the heart, aided by divine grace, which enables us to embody the righteousness we possess as traits that are pleasing to God.

To gain a deeper understanding of faith as an active and instrumental component of our salvation, it is crucial to analyze the dynamics of divine grace as it operates in our lives and leads to our salvation through our active cooperation. Faith is not merely a passive belief; rather, it serves as the foundational starting point in the multifaceted process of justification before God, which encompasses our relationship with Him and our moral standing. Faith takes on a tangible form as we actively engage with the wisdom and knowledge imparted to us through Scripture, Tradition, and personal experience. This engagement involves placing unwavering trust in God and nurturing hope in His promises, which are rooted in His nature as a loving and faithful Creator. These two theological virtues—faith and hope—act as vital conduits through which we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s grace.

As we do so, our minds and hearts undergo a continuous process of renewal, enabling us to truly embody the idea of becoming a new creation in Christ. This transformation is reflected in our commitment to living virtuous lives characterized by love, compassion, and integrity. Dying to oneself entails a conscious decision to reject selfish desires and the prevailing worldly influences that seek to distract us from our spiritual goals. This transition demands a genuine conversion of the heart, which divine grace facilitates. Through this grace, we are empowered to adopt the righteousness that we possess as our own inherent qualities, enabling us to live in a manner that is pleasing to God. Such a life not only impacts our personal spiritual journey but also serves as a witness to others, illustrating the profound effect of divine grace in leading us toward genuine fulfillment and spiritual wholeness.

The concept of the imputed alien righteousness of Christ is a significant topic within Reformed Protestant theology, but it raises questions about human agency in the work of the Holy Spirit. It is important to understand that Scripture suggests a genuine ontological transformation of our nature is essential for being deemed just in the eyes of God. Integral to this transformation is the presence of a true spirit of charity—love for God and neighbor—which enriches and completes our faith. This notion of love, also known as agape, plays a crucial role in how faith is expressed and is vital for our spiritual growth. When faith is animated by this infused virtue, it becomes justifiable and beneficial for our souls, as it reflects the believer’s openness to the Holy Spirit and the empowering influence of divine grace.

In Reformed Protestant theology, the concept of the imputed alien righteousness of Christ suggests that believers are credited with Christ’s righteousness apart from their own supernatural merit. However, this idea can be seen as problematic when considering the active role of individuals in the work of the Holy Spirit within them. Sacred Scripture emphasizes the necessity of a genuine ontological transformation—meaning a fundamental change in our very nature—for believers to be considered just in the sight of God.

This transformative process involves not only an acknowledgment of faith but also a heartfelt commitment to the spirit of charity, which embodies our love for God and our neighbors. Such charity is not merely an abstract concept but a vital expression of faith that must inform and animate the believer’s actions and attitudes. It is through this agape love—characterized by selfless and unconditional love—that faith becomes transformative and effective. Moreover, love serves as an infused virtue, vital for the spiritual growth of the believer. When individuals open themselves to the influence of the Holy Spirit and divine grace, they cultivate this profound love, allowing it to guide their thoughts, actions, and interactions. Consequently, this active expression of faith, infused with charity, not only justifies believers but also enriches their souls, affirming the relationship between faith, love, and the transformative power of grace in the life of a believer.

In his pivotal letter to the Jewish Christians in Galatia, St. Paul emphasizes that it is the indwelling Holy Spirit, rather than mere compliance with the external observances mandated by the ceremonial Mosaic law, that justifies believers before God. He articulates that sanctifying grace functions as the essential mechanism through which internal justification is achieved, a process intimately linked to the merits of Christ, who stands as the ultimate source of all grace. Moreover, Paul underscores that the merits attained through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection don’t negate the enduring truth of God’s word. This truth asserts that genuine atonement for sin is realized through a heartfelt expression of love and faithfulness, a principle beautifully captured in Proverbs 16:6, which states, “Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord, evil is avoided.” Thus, Paul calls upon believers to embrace a transformative relationship with the Holy Spirit and to embody the love and faithfulness that fulfill the true intent of God’s commandments.

Human beings are uniquely created in the image of God, a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology that underscores our inherent dignity and purpose. Although we grapple with a fallen human nature, marked by sin and imperfection, the pursuit of justice in God’s sight necessitates a commitment to holiness that encompasses both our souls and our bodies. In Christian belief, God graciously provides us with the means to attain holiness and righteousness, which reflect His divine nature. However, it is essential to clarify that this bestowed grace does not imply that we achieve absolute righteousness, as that is reserved for God alone.

As adopted children of God through faith in Jesus Christ, we are called to ensure that the condition of our souls and the conduct of our lives align with the divine image in which we are created. This alignment involves a transformative journey, often supported by practices such as prayer, study of Scripture, and participation in the sacraments, which help cultivate our spiritual growth. The Greek term for “to justify” (dikaioo), frequently used by the Apostle Paul in his epistles, indicates that God perceives us as intrinsically righteous when He declares us just. This declaration of justification signifies more than a mere change in relational status; it represents a fundamental transformation in our very nature. As Paul emphasizes, through faith in Christ, we are counted as righteous, allowing us to enter into a right relationship with God.

The reality of God’s declarations about justice is as genuine and authoritative as the act of creation itself, exemplified in Genesis 1:3, where God speaks light into existence, and echoed in John 8:12, where Jesus proclaims Himself as the light of the world. It is crucial to recognize that God, through His Word and the Holy Spirit, does not merely bring forth superficial or fictional changes; rather, He effects a profound and transformative change within us. This transformation empowers us to live according to God’s will, reflect His love and righteousness in our daily lives, and participate actively in establishing His kingdom on earth.

May you be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding to live in a manner worthy of the Lord, so as to be fully pleasing, in every good work bearing fruit (merit) and growing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with every power, in accord with his glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy giving thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light. He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.
Colossians 1, 9-13

The Apostle Paul conveys a profound message to the Colossians regarding the nature of the righteousness essential for their justification before God. He emphasizes that this righteousness must be intrinsic to the believer, a transformative quality cultivated and rooted within the individual, and empowered solely by God’s grace through Jesus Christ. This internal righteousness is not simply an external attribute or a borrowed quality that one can wear like clothing. If it were so, then Paul’s exhortation for the community to “clothe themselves with love and a new self” would lack purpose and significance. Instead of urging them to embody virtues such as love, compassion, and moral integrity, he could have merely reassured them that their old, sinful garments had been replaced with Christ’s perfect purity and righteousness. This would have simplified his message and eliminated the need for personal transformation.

However, by calling upon them to actively adopt a new self that reflects Christ-like attributes, Paul highlights the critical importance of recognizing how individuals can become inherently righteous in God’s sight. This call to personal renewal and ethical living points to a deeper theological understanding that righteousness is not just a legal declaration but involves an active, dynamic relationship with God, resulting in genuine change and spiritual growth within the believer’s life.

Individuals are called to actively engage in their redemption and share in the divine life through the sanctifying grace of God. Christ dwells within believers, and through His Spirit, He operates in and through those who truly believe and hope in Him. This is achieved by exercising faith expressed through charity and grace, which fosters a life of holiness. It is important to understand that our Lord does not merely shield humanity from divine justice by redirecting attention away from wretched sinners to Himself. Instead, He embodies the grace obtained through His passion, death, and resurrection. While believers can seek to merit increased sanctification and charity, this is done in and through the redemptive merits of Christ.

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above,
where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above,
not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
Colossians 3,1-4

In his Letter to the Colossians 3:1-17, St. Paul presents a powerful message regarding the concept of putting on the new self for baptized Christians. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on spiritual matters, encouraging believers to set their minds on “things above,” where Christ resides at the right hand of God, rather than being preoccupied with earthly concerns. This transformative process involves a spiritual death to worldly desires and a new life in Christ, where believers’ identities are found in Him. Paul teaches that only by relinquishing self-centeredness can Christ’s glory be fully revealed to individuals after their earthly existence. To escape God’s justice, it is necessary to shed the old self by collaborating with the Holy Spirit and utilizing His gifts of grace. This renunciation of the old self entails rejecting sinful behaviors and eliminating worldly influences, including fornication, impurity, passion, and greed, which is described as idolatry. Paul urges believers to dismantle any idols that hinder their relationship with God by letting go of anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive language.

The concept of exchanging old habits for new virtues is emphasized in clothing oneself with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, which are significant traits associated with being part of a chosen community. Practicing mutual support and forgiveness is crucial, as is showing patience and mercy towards one another. This notion draws on the principle that, just as individuals have received forgiveness from the Lord, they, too, should extend forgiveness to others.

Love is highlighted as the most important virtue to embrace. The peace of Christ is regarded as essential for guiding interpersonal relationships. Adopting this new self involves allowing the teachings of Christ to dwell within and influence one’s actions. Ultimately, expressing gratitude and praise to God the Father for the abundant gifts of grace is crucial, as these blessings reveal one’s alignment with Christ in both spiritual and earthly existence.

Early Sacred Tradition

Origen (A.D. 230)
First Principles, I:I,3

“And since many saints participate in the Holy Spirit, He cannot, therefore, be understood to be a body, which being divided into corporeal parts, is partaken of by each one of the saints; but He is manifestly a sanctifying power, in which all are said to have a share who have deserved to be sanctified by His grace.”

St. Athanasius (A.D. 318)
Incarnation 54

“He was made man that we might be made God; and he showed himself in the body
that we might receive the idea of the unseen Father; and he endured the insolence of men
that we might inherit immortality.”

St. John Chrysostom (A.D. 403)
Homily on Hebrews, 12:3

“All indeed depends on God, but not so that our free will is hindered. ‘If then it depends on God,’ (one says), ‘why does He blame us?’ On this account, I said, ‘so that our free will is no hindered.’ It depends then on us, and on Him For we must first choose the good; and then He leads us to His own. He does not anticipate our choice, lest our free will should be outraged. But when we have chosen, then great is the assistance he brings to us…For it is ours to choose and to wish; but God’s to complete and to bring to an end. Since therefore the greater part is of Him, he says all is of Him, speaking according to the custom of men. For so we ourselves also do. I mean for instance: we see a house well built, and we say the whole is the Architect’s [doing], and yet certainly it is not all his, but the workmen’s also, and the owner’s, who supplies the materials, and many others, but nevertheless since he contributed the greatest share, we call the whole his. So then [it is] in this
case also.”

St. Augustine (A.D. 427)
On Grace and Free Will, 6:13

“Thus, it is necessary for a man that he should be not only justified when unrighteous by the grace of God, that is be changed from unholiness to righteousness, when he is requited with good for his evil; but that even after he has been justified by his faith, grace should accompany him on his way lest he fall. On this account it is written concerning the Church herself in Canticles: ‘Who is this who commeth up in white raiment, leaning upon her kinsman?’ Made white is she who alone could not be made white. And by whom has she been made white except by Him who says by the prophet, ‘Though your sins be as purple as scarlet, I will make them white as snow.’ At the time, then, that she was made white, she deserved nothing good; but now that she is made white, she walketh well; but it is only by her continuing ever to lean upon Him by whom she was made white. Wherefore, Jesus Himself, on whom she leans that was made white, said to His disciples, ‘Without me ye can do nothing.’”

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its
stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light
shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in
heaven.”
Matthew 15, 14-16

Pax vobiscum