Transformed By Truth: How To Be Holy In The 21st Century 1 Peter 1:15-16 Series

Transformed by Truth: How to Be Holy in the 21st Century

Introduction:

Today, we will explore a topic that is as challenging as it is essential: "How to Be Holy in the 21st Century." Our foundational Scripture comes from 1 Peter 1:15-16, where the Apostle Peter calls us to a life of holiness.

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.’"

Point 1: Understanding Holiness

Holiness, in its essence, means being set apart for God's purposes. It's about reflecting God's character in our lives. Peter's call for us to be holy echoes Leviticus 11:44, emphasizing that holiness is a command, not a suggestion.

Leviticus 11:44 (NLT): "For I am the Lord your God. You must consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy."

A.W. Tozer once said, "Holiness, as taught in the Scriptures, is not based upon knowledge on our part. Rather, it is based upon the resurrected Christ indwelling us and changing us into His likeness."

Consider the life of Daniel. Despite being in a pagan culture, he chose to live a life set apart for God. His commitment to holiness, even in the face of persecution, is a powerful example for us today.

In our contemporary world, understanding holiness means recognising that we are called to live differently from the world. It's about making choices that honour God, even when they are counter-cultural. It means prioritising God's standards over societal norms.

Point 2: Pursuing Holiness through Obedience

Peter's instruction to be holy involves active obedience to God's commands. Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but actively pursuing righteousness.

John 14:15 (NLT): "If you love me, obey my commandments."

As Oswald Chambers observed, "Holiness, not happiness, is the chief end of man."

The story of Eric Liddell, the Scottish Olympic runner, is a profound example of obedience. Despite immense pressure, he refused to run on a Sunday because of his conviction to keep the Sabbath holy. His decision to honour God over worldly acclaim is a testament to his pursuit of holiness.

In the 21st century, pursuing holiness through obedience means making daily choices that reflect our commitment to God. It involves spending time in prayer, studying Scripture, and living out our faith in practical ways. It's about saying no to what is wrong and yes to what is right, even when it's difficult.

Point 3: Reflecting God's Holiness in Our Lives

To be holy as God is holy means our lives should reflect His character. This involves exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit and living in a way that points others to God.

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT): "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!"

John Stott once said, "Holiness is not a condition into which we drift. We have to pursue it, work at it, and make it a priority."

Consider the example of modern-day missionaries who leave the comfort of their homes to serve in remote and often dangerous areas. Their lives, marked by sacrifice and service, reflect God's holiness and love to those they minister to.

Reflecting God's holiness in our lives means allowing His Spirit to transform us from the inside out. It means living with integrity, showing compassion, and being a light in our communities. Our actions and attitudes should reflect the holiness of God and draw others to Him.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, being holy in the 21st century is both a challenge and a privilege. It involves understanding what holiness means, pursuing it through obedience, and reflecting God's character in our lives. As we strive for holiness, we are transformed by the truth of God's Word and become a testimony of His grace and power.

Call to Action:

Let us commit to a life of holiness by:

Seeking to understand and embrace what it means to be holy.

Obeying God's commands and making choices that honour Him.

Reflecting God's holiness in our daily lives through our actions and attitudes.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to a life of holiness. Help us to understand Your call, to pursue holiness through obedience, and to reflect Your character in all that we do. Empower us by Your Spirit to live lives that bring glory to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.