LDS/Mormon View on Sanctification
In the context of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), sanctification is viewed as a continuous process that begins at baptism and continues throughout a person’s life. Sanctification is closely linked with the doctrine of exaltation, meaning that individuals must actively work on their spiritual development and align themselves with the teachings of Jesus Christ. This process involves obedience to commandments, faithful participation in church ordinances, and the striving for personal holiness. LDS theology emphasizes the necessity of both faith in Jesus Christ and works as essential components of salvation, with sanctification serving as a preparation for eventual exaltation to become like God.
Lutheran View on Sanctification
In Lutheran theology, sanctification is viewed as a result of justification, which is the act of being declared righteous before God through faith in Christ alone. Lutherans believe that sanctification is the process by which believers grow in holiness and Christ-like character, facilitated by the work of the Holy Spirit. While good works are a vital expression of faith, they are not seen as a means to earn salvation but as a natural outcome of genuine faith. Sanctification happens continually throughout a believer’s life, driven by grace rather than human effort. Lutherans emphasize the importance of the means of grace—such as Word and Sacraments—as foundational for spiritual growth.
Key Differences
The LDS perspective emphasizes an active role in sanctification, linking it with the pursuit of exaltation and a combination of faith and works, while the Lutheran view focuses on sanctification as a response to God’s grace, arising from the believer’s faith alone, without the necessity of additional works to secure salvation. The LDS understanding requires a systematic adherence to commandments and ongoing participation in church practices, whereas Lutheranism sees sanctification as a spontaneous result of faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit to foster growth in holiness.
