[We are being transformed]
from one degree of glory to another.
—2 Corinthians 3:18
For the Christian, there is a change that is instantaneous and a change that is gradual.
Salvation is a change of a moment: the change from lost to saved is instantaneous: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mk 16:16).
Sanctification is a change of degrees: the change into the likeness of Christ is gradual, “from one degree of glory to another.”
Salvation is God’s work for us; sanctification is the Spirit’s work in us.
Sanctification is not a human system of self-improvement but a divine system of transformation: “As the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him” (2 Cor 3:18 TLB).
Grow, Christian, grow!