Hebrews is a theologically rich book which contains deep doctrinal truths and pointed moral exhortations that encourage believers to stay faithful to Christ. It has received considerable attention from scholars who study the saving work of Christ, the relationship between the old and new covenants, and the doctrine of perseverance. Scholars have also turned to the book when expounding the doctrine of sanctification. For example, David Peterson draws out Hebrews’ depiction of Jesus as the one who sanctifies believers through his work as sacrifice and high priest and its portrayal of the relationship between cleansing, sanctification, and perfection (Possessed by God, 1995, 33-40). Marny Köstenberger also highlights Jesus’ work as the basis for sanctification and then briefly explains how, according to the author of Hebrews, progressive sanctification is advanced through enduring suffering (Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ, 2023, 96-102). These two presentations are representative of ideas frequently drawn from Hebrews on the topic of sanctification.
Additionally, David Peterson canvasses Hebrews 12’s teaching on believers’ pursuit of holiness (Possessed by God, 1995, 71-76), but more work is needed in mining the depths of the book of Hebrews for its contributions to the doctrine of sanctification, specifically the concept of progressive sanctification. This paper seeks to take a step toward constructing a comprehensive presentation of Hebrews’ teaching on sanctification by detailing its teachings on progressive sanctification. Focused attention will be given to Hebrews 3:1-4:16, 10:19-39, and 12:4-29. This study will demonstrate that in Hebrews, progressive sanctification is best approached through holding fast to an orthodox understanding of Christ’s work and its application to the believer and continually drawing near to God. Progressive sanctification is not primarily an individualistic activity, but it is to be pursued together by the local community of believers. Furthermore, this paper’s examination of Hebrews 3:1-4:16, 10:19-39, and 12:4-29 will illumine the author’s portrayal of the pursuit of progressive sanctification as the means by which believers persevere in the faith.