How can we support each other in pursuing sanctification as a community? Scripture Focus “For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality;” (1 Thessalonians 4:3) Understanding Sanctification • Sanctification is God setting us apart, shaping us into Christ’s likeness (Romans 8:29). • It is both decisive (Hebrews 10:10) and ongoing (Philippians 1:6). • God’s will is clear: holiness touches every part of life, beginning with moral purity but extending to speech, motives, work, and relationships. Why Community Matters • Believers are “one body” (1 Corinthians 12:12). Holiness is a family project, not a solo effort. • Hebrews 10:24-25 urges mutual stirring toward love and good deeds and consistent gathering. • Proverbs 27:17 paints the picture: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Ways We Support Each Other Toward Holiness 1. Immersing Ourselves in Truth – Share Scripture daily; read aloud, text verses, start conversations (John 17:17; Colossians 3:16). – Keep teaching and admonishing balanced with encouragement. 2. Practicing Transparent Accountability – Small groups or trusted pairs where sin is confessed (James 5:16). – Gentle restoration when someone stumbles (Galatians 6:1-2). – Guard confidentiality and show grace, never gossip. 3. Guarding Sexual Purity Together – Talk openly about temptations; remove secrecy. – Establish agreed-upon boundaries for media and social settings. – Older believers mentor younger ones, modelling purity (Titus 2:2-6). 4. Pursuing Holiness Side by Side – Engage in service projects, prayer meetings, and worship regularly—shared obedience strengthens resolve. – 2 Timothy 2:22: flee sin “together with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” – Celebrate victories publicly; mourn sin corporately (1 Corinthians 12:26). 5. Bearing One Another’s Burdens – Practical help: meals, child-care, financial assistance when sin’s consequences hit. – Emotional support: listen without judgment, remind each other of gospel hope (Galatians 6:2). 6. Cultivating a Culture of Encouragement – Speak life-giving words daily (Ephesians 4:29). – Highlight evidences of grace you see in others—fuel for continued growth. – Encourage perseverance as “the Day” approaches (Hebrews 10:25). Guardrails That Protect the Whole Body • Sound doctrine guarded by elders/teachers (Acts 20:28-31). • Church discipline, exercised biblically and lovingly (Matthew 18:15-17), to rescue the wandering and warn the rest. • Regular self-examination at the Lord’s Table (1 Corinthians 11:28-29). Living Out God’s Will Together Each word, glance, and decision is an opportunity to walk in the holiness God wills for us. Linked arms, eyes on Christ, the body moves forward—sharpening, guarding, and cheering one another until sanctification is complete at His appearing (1 John 3:2-3). |
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