Cyclic Sanctification

The Cyclic Sanctification infographic presents four stages or “means of grace”—Change, Grow, Serve, and Mature—which, when practiced continually, lead believers toward Christlikeness. This cycle is dynamic, meaning that each stage naturally flows into the next, with no fixed starting point. Instead, these stages build upon one another to form a self-sustaining loop of sanctification that propels a Christian’s ongoing transformation. Here’s a more in-depth look at each of the four stages and how each one seamlessly connects to the others, completing the sanctification cycle.

Change
The journey can begin with Change—an alteration in one’s thinking, behavior, or habits that aligns a person more closely with biblical truths. Change reflects an essential step of surrender, where a person allows the Holy Spirit to refine their heart and redirect their path. This could involve repentance, a shift in perspective, or a renewed commitment to living out one’s faith in a tangible way. When a person changes, they open themselves to Growth, which goes beyond simply adjusting actions. Growth becomes an outcome as a person deeply considers and applies God’s Word in their life.

Grow
As a person is changing, they inevitably begin to Grow. Growth involves both learning and inward development as the individual nurtures a more profound understanding of God and themselves in relation to Him. This stage includes active learning from Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers, which encourages a more mature grasp of spiritual principles. Growth is marked by self-examination, studying God’s character, and learning to apply biblical wisdom. This growth naturally leads to a desire to Serve others, as God’s grace received inwardly is expressed outwardly. When a person grows in Christ, they start to see others from a biblical perspective, and serving becomes a natural, joyful extension of this development.

Serve
Serve represents the outward expression of an inward transformation. True growth in Christ manifests in serving, as Jesus calls believers to love and support one another. When an individual is committed to serving others, they practice humility, love, and sacrifice, reflecting Christ’s example. This service could take various forms, from supporting one’s family to ministering within the church or community. As one serves, Maturity develops. Serving provides real-life contexts to apply what has been learned, testing faith in practical situations and leading to a deeper and more resilient Christlikeness.

Mature
Through continual service, a person attains Maturity—the culmination of progressive sanctification. Maturity is characterized by steadfastness, wisdom, and discernment, marking a more stabilized and Christ-centered life. A mature believer embodies faithfulness, a deeper joy in God, and an increasing awareness of their purpose within His kingdom. Maturity is not an endpoint but a readiness for further Change; it recognizes areas still needing refinement and growth, bringing the process full circle. When a person matures, they are both more receptive to change and more intentional about it, beginning the cycle anew with a renewed vigor and purpose in Christ.

The Cyclic Process and Its Significance
Each of these steps—Change, Grow, Serve, and Mature—feeds into the next, creating a powerful sanctification loop. If a believer begins by changing, they soon grow, leading them to serve, which results in maturity. If they start by growing, they will be inclined to serve, which produces maturity, leading to further change. In any sequence, the stages act as interconnected means of grace that God uses to shape a person into the likeness of Christ. This process reinforces that sanctification is not static or linear but is continuous and ever-deepening.

Case Study: Biff Counseling Bert
In this case study, Biff, a counselor, wants to assess Bert’s commitment to the sanctification process through counseling. To determine if Bert is serious about transformation, Biff asks probing questions based on the four labels: Change, Grow, Serve, and Mature. Here’s how Biff might approach each one:

Change
Biff starts by asking Bert if he is open to change. Questions might include:

• Are there specific areas in your life where you sense God calling you to change?
• What steps are you willing to take to address those areas?
• Are you prepared to release certain thoughts or habits that may hinder your growth?

These questions help Biff gauge whether Bert is ready to move beyond mere talk and into action. Bert’s answers will reveal his willingness to change his approach, making room for God’s work in his life.

Grow
Next, Biff assesses Bert’s dedication to growth. He could ask:

• How often do you spend time reading Scripture and praying?
• Are you involved in any activities that challenge you to grow spiritually?
• What recent insights have you gained about yourself or God?

Bert’s responses will indicate his commitment to learning and self-examination. Biff will observe if Bert is actively seeking to know God better and align his life accordingly.

Serve
Biff then explores Bert’s heart for service:

• How are you currently serving others in your family, church, or community?
• Do you find joy in supporting and encouraging others?
• How does your service reflect your relationship with Christ?

These questions help Biff see if Bert’s growth leads him outward toward others, showcasing a selfless, Christ-centered life.

Mature
Finally, Biff evaluates Bert’s maturity, probing to understand if he sees sanctification as ongoing:

• In what ways do you see spiritual maturity evident in your life?
• How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your faith journey?
• Are you open to revisiting areas in your life for continual refinement?

Bert’s answers will show if he approaches his faith with humility and perseverance, indicating a willingness to remain teachable and open to further change.

Conclusion
Through these questions, Biff aims to uncover whether Bert is serious about sanctification and committed to the process. Bert’s engagement with each stage—Change, Grow, Serve, and Mature—will reveal his readiness for transformation. If Bert demonstrates openness to all four stages, it will indicate a heart that desires genuine growth in Christ.

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Peace,
Rick