Be Holy
Scriptures:
Deuteronomy 7:1-11
Ephesians 5:18-20
Psalms 5
John 17:13-17
Introduction: The Meaning of Holiness
Holiness is not simply a lifestyle but a reflection of God’s character. The Hebrew word for holiness is Qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ), meaning “set apart” or “sacred,” emphasizing separation from the profane and dedication to God (Leviticus 19:2).
The Greek word is Hagios (ἅγιος), also meaning “set apart” or “consecrated,” highlighting moral purity and a life devoted to God (1 Peter 1:15).
Both terms convey holiness as being distinct for God’s purpose, reflecting His character and living in obedience through the Spirit’s power. It is the act of being set apart, distinct from the world, and fully dedicated to God.
As Leviticus 20:26 states, “You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine.”
The lives of people like Joseph, Daniel, and Esther teach us that holiness is a conscious, active pursuit of God in a world full of distractions. Let’s explore three aspects of holiness: chosen, changed, and cleansed for God’s glory.
1. Chosen to Be Holy: A Call to Separation (Deuteronomy 7:1-11)
* Deuteronomy 7:6 – “The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for His treasured possession.”
God called Israel as a holy nation, asking them to separate themselves from the sinful practices of the surrounding nations. This was not about superiority but about reflecting God’s glory in a corrupt world.
* God’s call to holiness begins with recognizing our identity as His chosen people. Just as Israel was asked to remove idols, we too must examine our lives and eliminate anything that hinders our relationship with God.
* Separate yourself from sinful influences and align your heart with God’s purposes.
* Augustine of Hippo emphasized that holiness begins with God’s grace, which calls us out of darkness and sets us apart for His service. He wrote, “For it is by grace that we are made holy; without grace, we would be incapable of holiness.” Holiness starts with being chosen by God, not by our own effort.
Illustration from the Bible:
* Reflection on Daniel: Daniel’s life reminds us that holiness often requires courage and consistency. In Babylon, a land filled with idolatry, Daniel chose to stand apart. By refusing to eat the king’s food (Daniel 1:8), he showed a heart fully devoted to God. His faithfulness resulted in God granting him wisdom, favor, and influence.
* Like Daniel, we must make daily choices to honor God, trusting Him to sustain and reward our obedience.
2. Changed for Holiness: Be Filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18-20)
* Ephesians 5:18 – “Be filled with the Spirit.”
Holiness is not something we can achieve on our own—it requires the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul contrasts worldly intoxication with spiritual fullness, urging believers to live Spirit-empowered lives.
* When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, He transforms our desires, renews our minds, and equips us to live in holiness. This change manifests in worship, gratitude, and humility.
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1. Worship God daily, both in song and in your actions (v. 19).
2. Cultivate a thankful heart, recognizing God’s blessings in all circumstances (v. 20).
3. Live in humility, honoring others and submitting to God’s will (v. 21).
* John Chrysostom also noted that the transformation in believers is not of their own doing, but the result of God’s indwelling Spirit, which empowers them to live holy lives. “Holiness is the work of the Holy Spirit in us,” he said.
Illustration from the Bible: Stephen:
* Stephen was a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:5). His holiness was evident in his boldness to preach the truth and forgive those who stoned him (Acts 7:55-60). Even in the face of death, he demonstrated a Spirit-filled life, glorifying God.
* Stephen’s life challenges us to remain Spirit-led, even in adversity, reflecting Christ in every situation.
3. Cleansed for Holiness: Sanctified by Truth (John 17:13-17)
* John 17:17 – “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”
In His prayer for His disciples, Jesus emphasizes the importance of God’s Word in the process of sanctification. Holiness involves being cleansed and transformed by the truth found in Scripture.
* Holiness requires daily renewal through God’s Word. By meditating on Scripture, we gain clarity, strength, and guidance to resist the pull of the world and live according to God’s will.
* Immerse yourself in Scripture, allowing it to purify your heart and mind. Be intentional in applying biblical truths to your life.
* Cyril of Alexandria also emphasized the centrality of God’s Word in the process of sanctification, noting that the truth of Scripture purifies the believer. “It is by the Word of God that we are sanctified, and by His grace, we are made holy.”
Illustration from the Bible: Joseph
* Joseph’s life is a testament to living a holy life in an unholy environment. He resisted the temptations of Potiphar’s wife by boldly declaring, “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). His commitment to holiness led to God’s favor, even in prison.
* Joseph reminds us that holiness requires both resolve and reliance on God. When we honor Him, He will work through our circumstances for His glory.
Conclusion: The Privilege of Holiness
Holiness is not a burden but a privilege that allows us to walk closely with God. It involves being Chosen, Changed, and Cleansed for His purposes. As 1 Thessalonians 4:7 reminds us, “For God did not call us to impurity but to live in holiness.”
Psalm 5:7-8 captures the essence of this walk:
“But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence, I bow down toward your holy temple. Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.”
“Holiness is not the way to Christ; Christ is the way to holiness.” – Adrian Rogers
May we strive to live holy lives, empowered by God’s Spirit and guided by His truth, knowing that He who called us is faithful to complete His work in us (Philippians 1:6). Amen.
Rev. Ranjith Selvadurai,
CSI Madras Diocese.
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