Sanctification is not reforming the flesh. It is renewing the mind.
A false notion about sanctification is to reform the flesh. Common
expectations placed upon new believers are to conform to traditions, prescribed
patterns, or programs that the church dictates, and growth is determined by how
well they perform and conform in these pious works of the flesh. The fruit of
this system is self-glory through achievements and admiration. It grows the
outer man, the carnal nature. There is no spiritual knowledge or understanding
imparted, and spiritual growth is stunted, producing nothing more than babes
and children who can only function under laws. The result of this carnal immaturity
is envying, and strife, and divisions.
1Co 3:1-3 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. (2) I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. (3) For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
