ByGraceAlone,
I would like to address one of your statements from your post. You will see that I do not agree with what you believe that once we are saved, we are always saved. But I would like to address your comment that
" eternal life as promised by faith in Jesus' work on the cross does not hinge upon this sanctification and holiness. " The process of getting to heaven is all about sanctification and holiness. God will accept NO LESS than holiness! God despises sin!
(Col 1:22) In the body of his (Jesus) flesh through death ( sacrifice on cross), to present you HOLY AND UNBLAMEABLE and unreproveable in his sight:
(Eph 5:25) Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT ( death on cross);
(Eph 5:26) That he might sanctify (to be made Holy) and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
(Eph 5:27) That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be HOLY AND WIHOUT BLEMISH.
If you would care to talk on this topic further, please let me know. Thank you