Glorification is the future completion of the believer’s salvation. This corporate event, which occurs in the resurrection at the return of Christ, is the final purpose of God’s redemption (Rom 8:30) and is the completion of God’s saving work in believers, removing all traces of sin and conforming the believer fully to the image of Christ (1 John 3:2).

This final step involves two primary aspects. First, it includes the resurrection and transformation of the physical body. The believer’s mortal body, which is subject to decay and sin, will be raised and changed into a “glorious body,” like Christ’s own resurrected body (Phil 3:20-21; 1 Cor 15:42-44). This new body will be imperishable, and free from all sickness, pain, and death (1 Cor 15:51-53; Rev 7:16-17; Rev 21:4).

Second, glorification perfects the believer’s inward nature. While sanctification is the lifelong process of struggling against indwelling sin (Rom 7:15-20), glorification marks the total eradication of that sin. The believer will be presented to God “holy and blameless,” (Eph 5:27) finally and completely freed from the desire or capacity to sin.

Glorification is the necessary completion of God’s work. Justification changes the believer’s legal standing before God. Sanctification changes the believer’s character progressively throughout life. Glorification perfects the believer’s entire being, body and soul, making them fit to dwell in the presence of a holy God (Rev 21:27).