HOLINESS: THE STANDARD OF THE KINGDOM

HOLINESS: THE STANDARD OF THE KINGDOM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 1:15-16

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

"But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy." – 1 Peter 1:15-16

Supporting Texts: Leviticus 11:44-45, Matthew 5:8, Romans 12:1-2, 2 Corinthians 7:1, 1 Thessalonians 4:7

INTRODUCTION
Holiness is the divine standard of the Kingdom of God. It is not merely a religious concept but a lifestyle that reflects the nature of God. The call to holiness is a call to be set apart, to live in purity, and to be dedicated to God in every aspect of life.

Many believers struggle with holiness because they see it as an unattainable standard, but God has given us His Spirit to empower us to walk in holiness. Holiness is not about legalism; it is about being transformed into the image of Christ. As Kingdom citizens, we are expected to live a life that is pleasing to God, marked by righteousness, integrity, and purity.

This teaching will explore the importance of holiness, its characteristics, hindrances to holiness, and how to maintain a holy life in an unholy world.

1. HOLINESS IS GOD’S NATURE AND REQUIREMENT
God is holy, and He commands His people to be holy as well.

a) God is the Source of Holiness
Holiness is not a human achievement but a divine attribute (Leviticus 11:44).

b) Holiness is a Requirement for Seeing God
Without holiness, no one can experience the presence of God (Hebrews 12:14).

c) Holiness Sets Us Apart for God
We are chosen to be a holy people, separate from the world (1 Peter 2:9).

d) Holiness is Not Optional
God does not suggest holiness; He commands it (1 Thessalonians 4:7).

e) Biblical Example: The Call of Isaiah
Isaiah saw the holiness of God and realised his own need for cleansing (Isaiah 6:1-7).

2. CHARACTERISTICS OF HOLINESS
A holy life is evident in how a person lives, speaks, and relates with others.

a) Purity of Heart and Mind
True holiness begins from the heart, not just outward actions (Matthew 5:8).

b) Obedience to God’s Word
Holiness is living in obedience to God’s commands (John 14:15).

c) Separation from Sin and the World
Holiness requires avoiding sinful influences (2 Corinthians 6:17).

d) Love and Righteous Living
A holy person walks in love, righteousness, and truth (Ephesians 5:1-3).

e) Biblical Example: Joseph’s Integrity
Joseph refused to sin against God, choosing holiness over compromise (Genesis 39:9).

3. HINDRANCES TO HOLINESS
There are several obstacles that can prevent a believer from living a holy life.

a) Compromise with the World
Worldly influences can weaken holiness (James 4:4).

b) Lack of Discipline and Self-Control
Without discipline, holiness becomes difficult (1 Corinthians 9:27).

c) Unrenewed Mindset
Holiness begins with renewing the mind through God’s Word (Romans 12:2).

d) Association with Ungodly Influences
Evil company corrupts good morals (1 Corinthians 15:33).

e) Biblical Example: Samson’s Downfall
Samson lost his strength because he compromised his holiness (Judges 16:20-21).

4. HOW TO WALK IN HOLINESS
Living a holy life requires intentional actions and dependence on God.

a) Commit to a Life of Prayer
Prayer strengthens holiness and keeps us aligned with God (Luke 18:1).

b) Meditate on God’s Word Daily
The Word of God purifies and transforms our lives (Psalm 119:9).

c) Be Led by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers us to walk in holiness (Galatians 5:16).

d) Confess and Repent of Sin Regularly
Holiness requires constant repentance and renewal (1 John 1:9).

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Uncompromising Faith
Daniel remained holy despite living in a corrupt society (Daniel 1:8).

5. THE REWARDS OF HOLINESS
Holiness brings divine rewards both in this life and in eternity.

a) Closer Relationship with God
Holiness allows us to experience God’s presence more deeply (Psalm 24:3-4).

b) Spiritual Authority and Power
A holy life grants us spiritual authority over the enemy (Luke 10:19).

c) Divine Protection and Favour
God shields the righteous from destruction (Psalm 91:1-2).

d) Eternal Life with God
Holiness prepares us for eternity in God’s presence (Revelation 21:27).

e) Biblical Example: Enoch’s Walk with God
Enoch lived a holy life and was taken directly to heaven (Genesis 5:24).

CONCLUSION
Holiness is not a burden but a privilege and a command. It is the lifestyle of those who belong to God’s Kingdom. The world may promote compromise, but God calls His children to be different—to be set apart, pure, and devoted to Him.

As we commit to living holy lives, we will experience greater intimacy with God, divine favour, and spiritual authority. May God give us the grace to walk in holiness daily.

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Father, help me to walk in holiness and righteousness daily.

2.  Lord, purify my heart and mind from every form of impurity.

3.  I receive grace to resist every temptation that leads to sin.

4.  Lord, separate me from every ungodly influence in my life.

5.  I declare that I am set apart for God’s glory.

6.  Holy Spirit, empower me to live a life that pleases God.

7.  Lord, renew my mind and help me to focus on things that are pure.

8.  I receive divine strength to overcome the works of the flesh.

9.  Father, let my life reflect Your holiness in all I do.

10.  Lord, prepare me for Your coming by making me holy.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1.  I declare that I am a holy vessel set apart for God’s use.

2.  I decree that sin shall have no dominion over me.

3.  I prophesy that I will walk in purity and righteousness daily.

4.  I declare that the fire of holiness is burning in my life.

5.  I decree that my life will reflect the image of Christ.

6.  I declare that every form of impurity is removed from my life.

7.  I prophesy that I will stand firm in holiness despite worldly pressures.

8.  I decree that my thoughts, words, and actions will glorify God.

9.  I declare that I am an example of holiness in my generation.

10.  I decree that I will be ready for the coming of the Lord.

May the Lord strengthen you to live a life of holiness and grant you the grace to be a light in a dark world. Amen!