Which passage describes the concept of progressive sanctification?

The concept of progressive sanctification refers to the ongoing process by which a believer is made more like Christ over time, involving both the work of the Holy Spirit and the believer’s personal effort in growing in holiness. The passage in Galatians 5 is particularly relevant as it emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian, describing the fruit of the Spirit and urging individuals to "walk by the Spirit." This suggests a continual movement toward spiritual maturity and Christlikeness, which aligns perfectly with the idea of progressive sanctification.

In this context, the verses from Galatians highlight how believers are to live in accordance with the Spirit, contrasting the desires of the flesh with the outcomes of spiritual living. This aligns with the theological understanding that sanctification is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of growth and transformation.

The other passages, while significant in their own right, do not capture the essence of progressive sanctification in the same way. For instance, 1 Corinthians 6:11 speaks of believers being washed and justified, which relates more to the initial act of salvation. John 9 recounts the story of Jesus healing a man born blind, illustrating miraculous transformation but not specifically addressing the gradual nature of sanctification.