Justified, Sanctified, Glorified: The Full Picture of Salvation

What defines you? For many, identity is tied to achievements, background, or social connections. But Scripture paints a different picture—one where identity is transformed not by effort, but by the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The book of Romans opens with a powerful declaration: “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God” (Romans 1:1). This isn’t just an introduction—it’s a glimpse into the heart of someone whose life was radically changed by the truth of the gospel. That same transformation is offered to every believer. The gospel isn’t merely a set of truths to believe—it’s a life to be lived, a righteousness to be received, and an identity to be embraced.

At its core, the gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ—the Son of God and descendant of David—lived a sinless life, died for our sins, and rose again in power. This message was promised in the Old Testament and fulfilled perfectly in Jesus, who is both fully human and fully divine (Romans 1:2-4). That dual nature makes Him uniquely qualified to offer salvation—He became like us to redeem us, and He remained sinless so He could satisfy the holiness of God.

Salvation isn’t just about going to heaven one day. It’s about being transformed today. Paul writes that “the gospel… is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). That salvation touches every part of life: it justifies us (saving us from the penalty of sin), sanctifies us (freeing us from the power of sin), and one day, it will glorify us (removing us from the presence of sin).

When the gospel changes your identity, you don’t just carry a new title—you carry a new purpose. Believers are described as “ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us” (2 Corinthians 5:20). That’s more than a label. It’s a mission.

Rather than treating faith like a weekend hobby, believers are called to live in such a way that their faith becomes their defining characteristic. A follower of Christ is not part-time. Every interaction, every decision, every relationship becomes an opportunity to reflect the righteousness of God.

This starts with an obedient faith—a belief that responds with action. As Romans 1:5 explains, we have received grace “to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the Gentiles.” The kind of faith that saves also compels us to live differently.

At every stage of life, especially in transitions like graduation, believers are called to live “on purpose.” Faith must move from something inherited to something owned. That means making Christlike decisions, growing in biblical understanding, engaging in the life of the church, and living out truth with both conviction and compassion.

Defending the faith (apologetics) matters, but it must be done in love. Living a holy life matters, but it must flow from knowing Christ. And taking ownership of one’s spiritual growth matters, because no one else can follow Jesus for you.

Whether you're stepping into a new chapter of life or simply recommitting to spiritual growth, consider these practical next steps:

• Own your faith: Spend time daily in God’s Word and prayer, not out of obligation but desire.
• Join a community: Surround yourself with believers who challenge and encourage you to grow.
• Live boldly: Don’t be ashamed of the gospel. Let your actions and words reflect Christ.
• Pursue holiness: Recognize the difference between striving for perfection and living in grace-filled obedience.
• Keep eternity in view: Remember, your salvation began with justification, continues through sanctification, and ends with glorification.

Romans 1:17 sums it up: “The righteous will live by faith.” From start to finish, the Christian life is one of faith—believing in Jesus, not just once, but every day. That faith empowers us to stand firm, live boldly, and reflect the righteousness of God in a world desperate for hope.

So ask yourself: Is the gospel just something you believe—or is it the power you live by?

This blog is based on a message preached by Lead Pastor Dr. Brian Stone on Sunday, May 4, as part of the Romans: The Righteousness of God series. You can watch the full message here.