God has called every Christian to a holy life. The word holy itself signifies a “separation to God, and the conduct befitting those so separated“. Scripture calls us to imitate and reflect God. To live a holy life is to live a life in conformity to God’s will and the moral precepts of the Bible, which is in direct conflict with the sinful ways of the world.
So, if holiness is supposed to be a fundamental element in the Christian life, then why is it not taught in our churches? Why don’t Christians experience it more in their daily lives? It is God’s will that we be holy, and in doing so become more like Him.
..as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:13
Living Holy Lives
Living holy lives requires real separation from the world and the flesh, and entire devoutness to God. This blog, in part, hopes to examine this mandate to a life of holiness and how we can live in obedience to God’s Word. We want to help followers of Jesus develop a genuine desire to pursue holiness in each of our lives while answering some of our most basic, and practical, questions like:
- What does holy living look like in ‘real life’?
- How do I grow in holiness?
- How do I display holiness at work or home?
- If I am already justified before God, how do I respond
There is hardly a more important topic for the believer. The Lord demands it, which in itself is enough. It also offers evidence of a saving faith while allowing us to glorify God with our lives [1]. Justification by faith alone in Christ declares us righteous before God, but the gift of the Holy Spirit sets us on a path of continued growth through sanctification. Martin Luther said, “Justification is by faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone.” Righteous people are known by their fruit, and as Dr. R.C. Sproul said, “To yield the fruit of the Spirit, we must practice the fruit of the Spirit.” It’s also why James said, “faith apart from works is dead.” (James 2:26).
Ultimately the author of Hebrews makes it clear for us just what is at stake:
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:14
[1] WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM
Q. 1. What is the chief end of man?
A. Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.