Sanctification through Authenticity
Sanctification is an important process of spiritual growth that leads to holiness. It involves transforming one's character and behaviour according to God's will and becoming more like Christ. In this article, I will explore how authenticity can replace conformity as the path to holiness through sanctification.
Authenticity refers to being true to oneself, expressing genuine thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviours without fear or pretense. Conformity, on the other hand, means following societal norms, conventions, and expectations without questioning them. While conformity may be necessary for social acceptance, it often limits individual expression and personal growth.
As Christians, we are called to be holy, set apart from the world and its ways.
Too often, we prioritize conformity over authenticity, living lives that look good on the outside but do not reflect our inner selves. This approach is unsustainable and ultimately harmful because it can lead to inauthenticity, hypocrisy, and disillusionment.
To embrace sanctification through authenticity requires us to let go of societal pressures and expectations. We need to examine ourselves honestly and seek God's guidance to discover who we truly are. We must also understand our strengths and weaknesses, values and passions, motivations and desires, and make choices accordingly.
Some people might feel pressure to hide their sexual orientation, gender identity, or relationship status due to societal norms. Instead of conforming to these expectations, they can choose to live authentically by embracing their true selves and sharing them with others. They can find support and community within the Church or online communities that affirm their identities and provide resources for holiness.
Women can reject sexist attitudes and cultural norms that limit their roles and responsibilities at home and work. They can advocate for equal pay, leadership opportunities, and decision-making power. Men can challenge traditional masculinity stereotypes that promote aggression, domination, and control. They can explore healthier expressions of manhood that value emotional vulnerability, caregiving, and cooperation.
Sanctification through authenticity also involves addressing personal struggles and challenges openly. It means acknowledging flaws and seeking healing rather than hiding or suppressing them. This may involve therapy, accountability partners, or spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, fasting, and Scripture study. By exploring our inner lives and cultivating self-awareness, we can gain insight into our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, leading to more meaningful relationships with God and others.
Sanctification through authenticity requires us to let go of societal pressures and expectations and embrace who we truly are. We must examine ourselves honestly, seek God's guidance, and cultivate self-awareness to grow in holiness. By doing so, we can be free from conformity, hypocrisy, and disillusionment, living lives that reflect our true selves and glorify Christ.
What does sanctification look like when authenticity replaces conformity as the path to holiness?
Sanctification is a process of being made holy by the power of God's grace, which can be achieved through authenticity instead of conformity. Authenticity involves living life with honesty and integrity, pursuing one's true self rather than fitting into cultural norms. This approach may involve challenging traditional religious beliefs and practices that don't align with personal values, but it ultimately leads to a deeper connection with God and others.