Holiness Defined: Transformed by Truth 1 Peter 1:15-16
Introduction:
Today, we delve into the transformative power of truth as we explore the words of the Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 1:15-16 (NLT). In these verses, Peter calls us to a life of holiness, pointing to the transformative impact of aligning our lives with the truth of God's Word.
Point 1: The Call to Holiness
1 Peter 1:15 (NLT) "But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy."
Peter begins with a clear call to holiness—a life set apart for God's purposes. The term "holy" denotes being consecrated, pure, and morally blameless. Peter emphasizes that our holiness should permeate every aspect of our lives, mirroring the holiness of God Himself.
Jerry Bridges highlights the significance of holiness, stating, "Holiness is nothing less than conformity to the character of God."
Leviticus 11:44 (NLT) - "For I am the Lord your God. You must consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy."
Point 2: The Model of God's Holiness
1 Peter 1:16 (NLT) "For the Scriptures say, 'You must be holy because I am holy.'"
Peter reinforces the call to holiness by quoting from the Scriptures, specifically Leviticus 11:44. God's holiness serves as the model for our own, and the Scriptures provide the foundation and standard for our pursuit of holiness. It is a transformative journey guided by the truth of God's Word.
A.W. Tozer reflects on the transformative nature of beholding God's holiness, saying, "The most revealing thing about the Church is her idea of God, just as her most significant message is what she says about Him or leaves unsaid, for her silence is often more eloquent than her speech."
Psalm 99:9 (NLT) - "Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain in Jerusalem, for the Lord our God is holy!"
Point 3: Living Out the Transformed Life
1 Peter 1:15-16 (NLT) "But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, 'You must be holy because I am holy.'"
Peter reinforces the call to holiness by repeating the command from Leviticus. The transformative power of truth is fully realized when holiness becomes the guiding principle in every aspect of our lives. It is a continuous process of aligning ourselves with God's standards, allowing His truth to shape our character and actions.
Charles Spurgeon emphasises the practicality of holiness in our daily lives, stating, "Holiness is not a luxury of the few; it is a simple duty, for you and for me."
1 Thessalonians 4:7 (NLT) - "God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives."
Conclusion:
In the light of 1 Peter 1:15-16, we are confronted with the call to holiness—a call that transforms every dimension of our existence. As we align ourselves with the truth of God's Word, may holiness become the defining characteristic of our lives.
May our pursuit of holiness reflect the transformative power of truth, and may we be vessels through which God's holiness shines in a world in need of His light.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ empower us on this transformative journey. Amen.
