Introduction
In this sermon, we explore the period between Easter and Pentecost, reflecting on how Jesus revealed Himself to His disciples after His resurrection. This time was significant as He provided them with hope, as their lives were transformed through belief in Him. Upon rising, the disciples were eager to understand the restoration of God's kingdom, but Jesus indicated that they would need to wait. He took time to teach them, opening up the Scriptures to explain how their new life in Him would manifest, resulting in a call for believers to embody this transformation in their lives. This series focuses on what it means to live as born-again believers, fulfilling our responsibility to pursue holiness as a fundamental characteristic of this new life.
Main Points
As We Delve Into Holiness We
As we delve into holiness, we must first confront misconceptions surrounding the term. Common societal views suggest that holiness equates to emotional absence, perpetual seriousness, constant religious activity, or even a judgmental stance towards others.
- However, these definitions do not truly reflect the essence of holiness as outlined in Scripture.
- Holiness is not merely about abstaining from worldly pleasures or appearing stern; rather, it is about embodying the nature of God in our conduct.
- The call to holiness is an invitation to fully engage with the world as we reflect God’s character in our daily lives.
- As Peter reminds us, believers are called to be holy because God is holy, and that call flows naturally from our new identity in Christ.
The Pursuit Of Holiness Requires A
The pursuit of holiness requires a transformation, marking a departure from our old nature to embrace a new one. We are reminded that the believer does not abandon their struggles overnight; this transformation is a process that takes time.
- Lewis famously illustrated, we are like homes that God is reconstructing.
- At times, the changes may feel painful and confusing, but He is reforming us into something much more beautiful than we could envision.
- To navigate this unfolding process, we rest in the grace of God, understanding that it is He who empowers us to live a holy life.
It Is Not Our Efforts That
It is not our efforts that lead to holiness, but rather relying on God’s Spirit dwelling within us. Living out the holiness to which we are called has implications for how we interact with the world around us. Many Christians mistakenly withdraw from society, believing holiness means retreating from unclean environments. However, we are called to engage with the world just as Jesus did: meeting people where they are and demonstrating God’s love to those who desperately need it. Holiness is not an exclusive trait but a power that God instills in us to shine brightly within dark spaces. We are sent into the world, empowered by God’s Spirit, to reflect His holiness even in challenging situations, encountering individuals who society often overlooks.
- **One Concise Takeaway ** Pursuing
- One concise takeaway: Pursuing holiness means embracing our new identity in Christ and reflecting God’s character. - One concise practical response: Engage actively with your community, demonstrating God’s love and holiness in your daily interactions. The pursuit of holiness is inexorably tied to our understanding of grace. It is a journey that lasts a lifetime, where we continually seek renewal through God’s grace. Recognizing that we cannot achieve holiness in our own strength invites us to lean wholly into the grace provided through faith in Jesus. This understanding leads us to express our gratitude not just in words but in action, living out the reality of our transformation.
It S Important To Realize That
It's important to realize that our life as believers should be characterized by a joyful pursuit of holiness birthed out of a profound recognition of the grace we have received. We make a home for grace in our hearts as we seek to embody it in our lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the call to holiness is an essential aspect of the born-again life that each believer is invited to embrace. As we navigate our journey, let us not view holiness as a burdensome obligation but as a beautiful opportunity to reflect God's nature. Armed with the understanding of the transformative power of God's grace, we excitedly engage with the world around us, demonstrating His love and holiness in our daily lives. Remember, we are not on retreat; we are sent to represent the unique character of God in unholy places, showcasing the miracle of transformation that God can accomplish in us and through us.