The Bible talks about saints being sanctified. Paul wrote to the saints at Corinth saying, "...to them that are sanctified" (I Corinthians 1:2). The essential meaning of sanctification is to be set apart. Sanctification sets apart an individual for the Lord. The Bible calls those that are sanctified "elect" or " chosen." We find that the elect are set apart by the Lord through sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth (II Thessalonians 2:13).
This means that we must believe the truth, obey the truth, and be baptized in the Holy Ghost to be set apart. Peter says, "Elect...through sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience..." (I Peter 1:2) and "...ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit" (I Peter 1:22).
It is also interesting to note that the same Greek word translate as "elect" is also translated as "chosen" in many verses. Many are called, but few are chosen (Matthew 22:14). "But ye are a chosen generation..." (I Peter 2:9). "...And they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful..." (Revelation 17:14). These verses help us understand that when God calls someone by His Spirit, there is a definite action that shows someone is set apart - which is signified by the baptism of the Holy Ghost.
Those that the Lord has set apart by the baptism of the Holy Ghost need to rejoice and continue to live faithful lives (Revelation 17:14) so that we can be ready when he comes for us. The Bible says that Jesus will come with the sound of a great trumpet, and angels shall gather the elect together (Matthew 24:31).
We are chosen and elected for a purpose; let us continue to serve the Lord Jesus and be ready when He comes (I Peter 2:9).
