Our spiritual growth is in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are born again with a desire for the "sincere milk" of God's word (1 Peter 2:2). This comes through Bible study and teaching. We are sanctified, which means we are set apart by the Holy Spirit, through God's truth in Christ (John 17:17).
In the New Testament, salvation includes regeneration and sanctification. "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). Through regeneration we have been born again in Christ. We are sanctified through the blood and Spirit of Christ (Heb. 10:14; 1 Cor. 6:11).
Immediately upon regeneration, believers are sanctified or set apart for Christ (1 Peter 1:2). Regeneration is an immediate act by the Holy Spirit in our hearts, whereas sanctification is an ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in us. Simply stated, regeneration is our new birth in Christ, whereas sanctification is our spiritual growth.
The Holy Spirit will guide us to grow in Christ (John 16:13). It is necessary for believers to yield to the Holy Spirit, otherwise we become carnal Christians (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). The choice is between the Spirit and the flesh. It is an ongoing battle in every believer's life (Galatians 5:16-17). Yielding to the flesh hinders our spiritual growth.
