HOLINESS: A TICKET TO SEE THE LORD

HOLINESS:  A TICKET TO SEE THE LORD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 12:14 – “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”

Supporting Texts: Matthew 5:8, 1 Peter 1:15-16, 2 Corinthians 7:1, Ephesians 5:27, Revelation 21:27

INTRODUCTION
Holiness is not just an option for the believer; it is a divine requirement. The Bible makes it clear that without holiness, no one will see the Lord. It is the spiritual passport that grants us access to God's presence, both now and in eternity. Many people desire to experience God's power, favour, and eternal life, but they fail to embrace the life of holiness that is required to access these blessings.

Holiness is not merely about following rules; it is about living a life that reflects the nature of God. As children of God, we are called to be holy just as He is holy. This means being set apart from sin, walking in righteousness, and maintaining purity in our thoughts, words, and actions.

This sermon will explore the significance of holiness as the ticket to see the Lord, both in our daily walk with Him and in eternity. We will examine why holiness is necessary, how to walk in it, and the eternal rewards it guarantees.

1. HOLINESS GRANTS US ACCESS TO GOD'S PRESENCE
Without holiness, no one can experience true intimacy with God.

a) God Is Holy and Requires Holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16)
Since God is holy, He expects His children to live holy lives as well.

b) Sin Separates Us from God (Isaiah 59:1-2)
When we live in sin, we create a barrier between ourselves and God.

c) Holiness Brings Us Closer to God (James 4:8)
When we purify our hearts, we draw near to God and experience His presence.

d) A Pure Heart Sees God (Matthew 5:8)
Only those with clean hearts can truly encounter the Lord.

e) Biblical Example: Moses saw God's glory because he walked in holiness (Exodus 33:18-23).

2. HOLINESS PREPARES US FOR THE RAPTURE
Only those who live holy lives will be ready when Jesus returns.

a) Jesus Is Coming for a Holy Church (Ephesians 5:27)
Christ is returning for a spotless bride without blemish or sin.

b) Holiness Secures Our Place in Heaven (Revelation 21:27)
No unclean person will enter the New Jerusalem; only the righteous will be there.

c) We Must Keep Our Garments White (Revelation 3:5)
Believers must remain pure to be counted worthy before God.

d) Living in Holiness Keeps Us Ready (Matthew 25:10-12)
Like the wise virgins, we must be prepared for the Bridegroom’s return.

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

3. HOLINESS BRINGS DIVINE PROTECTION AND FAVOUR
When we live holy lives, we enjoy God's divine covering and blessings.

a) The Righteous Are Shielded from Evil (Proverbs 18:10)
Holiness keeps us under God’s protection.

b) Holiness Attracts Divine Favour (Psalm 5:12)
God surrounds the righteous with favour like a shield.

c) Sin Opens the Door to Attacks (Ecclesiastes 10:8)
Unholy living gives the enemy access to destroy lives.

d) Holiness Brings Supernatural Victory (Psalm 34:7)
The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him.

e) Biblical Example: Joseph experienced divine protection and favour because of his holiness (Genesis 39:9, 21).

4. HOLINESS GIVES US SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY
A life of holiness empowers us to walk in dominion and authority.

a) Sin Weakens Spiritual Power (Judges 16:20)
When Samson compromised his holiness, he lost his strength.

b) The Righteous Are as Bold as a Lion (Proverbs 28:1)
Holiness gives confidence and boldness in spiritual matters.

c) God Answers the Prayers of the Righteous (James 5:16)
A holy life ensures that our prayers are effective and powerful.

d) Holiness Gives Us Victory Over the Enemy (Luke 10:19)
Those who walk in righteousness exercise divine authority.

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s holiness gave him dominion even in Babylon (Daniel 6:10, 22).

5. HOLINESS SECURES ETERNAL REWARDS
A life of holiness ensures a glorious destiny in eternity.

a) Without Holiness, There Is No Eternal Life (Romans 6:22-23)
The end of holiness is everlasting life with God.

b) The Holy Will Reign with Christ (2 Timothy 2:12)
Those who remain pure will reign with Jesus in His kingdom.

c) Holiness Guarantees Heavenly Crowns (2 Timothy 4:8)
There is a crown of righteousness awaiting those who live holy.

d) Holiness Prevents Eternal Condemnation (Matthew 25:46)
The unholy will face eternal punishment, while the righteous enjoy eternal joy.

e) Biblical Example: Paul finished his race in holiness and received his eternal reward (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

CONCLUSION
Holiness is not just a religious concept; it is the key to seeing the Lord both now and in eternity. Without holiness, we cannot access God’s presence, receive His favour, walk in spiritual authority, or inherit eternal life. The world may promote compromise, but believers must remain steadfast in righteousness.

Holiness is possible through the help of the Holy Spirit. It is not about human effort but about yielding to God’s grace and allowing Him to transform us. If we desire to see God move in our lives and be with Him forever, we must embrace holiness as our daily lifestyle.

Will you commit to living a holy life today?

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Lord, give me the grace to live a holy and blameless life before You.

2.  Father, purify my heart and make me a vessel fit for Your presence.

3.  Holy Spirit, empower me to overcome sin and walk in righteousness.

4.  Lord, let my life reflect Your holiness in all that I do.

5.  Father, keep me prepared for the return of Jesus through a life of holiness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1.  I declare that holiness shall be your lifestyle, and you shall see the Lord.

2.  The grace to remain pure and spotless shall rest upon you.

3.  You shall walk in divine protection and favour because of your holiness.

4.   Every power fighting against your righteousness is destroyed in Jesus’ name.

5.   Your eternal reward is secured as you continue to live in holiness.