THE CALL TO HOLINESS

Title: THE CALL TO HOLINESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Peter 1:15-16
"But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 12:14; Romans 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Leviticus 19:2; Ephesians 4:22-24

INTRODUCTION:
Holiness is a fundamental attribute of God, and as His children, we are called to reflect His character. The call to holiness is a call to be set apart, to live a life that honours God in thought, word, and deed. This Bible study explores the meaning, necessity, and practical steps for living a holy life.

1. WHAT IS HOLINESS?
Holiness means being separated from sin and dedicated to God. It involves moral purity, spiritual maturity, and complete devotion to God’s will.

a) Holiness Reflects God’s Character
God’s nature is holy, and His children are called to mirror His holiness (Leviticus 19:2).

b) Holiness Means Separation from Sin
Holiness requires turning away from worldly ways and living a life pleasing to God (2 Corinthians 6:17).

c) Holiness Involves Spiritual Renewal
It is not just outward actions but a transformation of the heart and mind (Romans 12:1-2).

d) Holiness is Progressive
It is a journey of growing closer to God and becoming more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18).

e) Biblical Example:
Daniel lived a holy life by refusing to defile himself with the king’s food (Daniel 1:8).

2. WHY IS HOLINESS IMPORTANT?
Holiness is not optional for a believer; it is essential for a thriving relationship with God.

a) Holiness Brings Fellowship with God
Without holiness, no one can see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).

b) Holiness is a Command from God
God explicitly calls His children to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).

c) Holiness Protects Us from Sin’s Consequences
A holy life guards us against the destruction caused by sin (Proverbs 4:23).

d) Holiness Attracts God’s Blessings
Those who walk in holiness enjoy divine favour and peace (Psalm 84:11).

e) Biblical Example:
Enoch walked in holiness and was taken by God (Genesis 5:24).

3. HOW TO LIVE A HOLY LIFE
Living a holy life requires intentional effort and reliance on God’s grace.

a) Surrender to God
Present yourself as a living sacrifice, wholly dedicated to Him (Romans 12:1).

b) Meditate on God’s Word
His Word is a guide and shield against sin (Psalm 119:11).

c) Be Led by the Holy Spirit
The Spirit empowers us to live a life that pleases God (Galatians 5:16).

d) Flee from Temptation
Avoid situations and influences that lead to sin (2 Timothy 2:22).

e) Biblical Example:
Joseph maintained his holiness by fleeing from Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:7-12).

4. SIGNS OF A HOLY LIFE
A holy life produces visible evidence in the believer’s character and behaviour.

a) A Love for Righteousness
Holiness cultivates a desire for godly living (Matthew 5:6).

b) Consistency in Prayer and Worship
Holiness draws us closer to God in intimate fellowship (John 4:24).

c) Victory Over Sin
A holy life reflects triumph over sinful habits (1 John 3:9).

d) A Christlike Character
Holiness transforms our attitudes and actions to resemble Christ (Colossians 3:12-14).

e) Biblical Example:
Paul’s transformed life after meeting Christ was a testimony of holiness (Galatians 2:20).

5. THE REWARDS OF HOLINESS
God honours those who pursue holiness with blessings both now and in eternity.

a) Intimacy with God
Holiness opens the door for a deeper relationship with Him (Psalm 24:3-4).

b) A Life of Peace and Joy
Holiness brings inner contentment and assurance (Isaiah 26:3).

c) Eternal Rewards
A holy life prepares us for heaven and eternal fellowship with God (Matthew 5:8).

d) Powerful Witness to Others
A holy life draws others to Christ (1 Peter 2:12).

e) Biblical Example:
Elijah’s holy life led to his being taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:11).

CONCLUSION:
The call to holiness is a high calling, but it is attainable through God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit. It requires a daily decision to turn away from sin and live in obedience to God. When we respond to this call, we experience the joy, peace, and fulfilment that come from walking in step with our Creator.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to live a life that reflects Your holiness.

2. Father, purify my heart and mind from all unrighteousness.

3. Holy Spirit, empower me to overcome every temptation.

4. Lord, teach me to hunger and thirst for righteousness.

5. Father, grant me the grace to remain faithful in my walk with You.

6. Lord, help me to meditate on Your Word daily.

7. Father, set me apart as a vessel of honour for Your glory.

8. Holy Spirit, convict me of anything that displeases God.

9. Lord, help me to flee from every appearance of evil.

10. Father, keep me blameless until the day of Christ.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that you will walk in holiness and honour before God.

2. May the Holy Spirit empower you to overcome every temptation.

3. I decree that your life will reflect the purity and love of Christ.

4. May you enjoy deeper intimacy with God as you pursue holiness.

5. The grace to live above sin is released upon you.

6. You will be a shining light and a godly example to others.

7. Every hindrance to your holiness is removed in Jesus’ name.

8. I declare that you will grow in spiritual maturity and righteousness.

9. May your life attract God’s favour and blessings.

10. You will stand blameless before the throne of grace.