How can we encourage others to pursue holiness in their lives? The Foundation: God’s Own Holiness “For it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’ ” (1 Peter 1:16) • God is not merely holy; He is the definition of holiness (Isaiah 6:3). • Because believers are children of the Father (1 Peter 1:14), His character becomes our standard, not a suggestion. • Encouragement toward holiness begins with reminding others who God is and who they are in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Why Pursue Holiness Together? • Holiness is essential for fellowship with God (Psalm 24:3-4). • It safeguards our witness (Matthew 5:16). • “Without holiness no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). Knowing these truths fuels earnest, loving exhortation. Encouraging One Another Toward Holiness 1. Celebrate Growth You See • Point out specific evidences of grace (Philemon 1:4-7). • Gratitude multiplies resolve and joy. 2. Share God’s Word Regularly • “Sanctify them by the truth” (John 17:17). • Text a verse, discuss a passage over coffee, memorize together. 3. Model Repentance, Not Perfectionism • James 5:16—confession creates an atmosphere where pursuing holiness feels attainable. • Admit failures quickly; demonstrate how the gospel restores. 4. Speak Life-Giving Correction • Galatians 6:1—restore “in a spirit of gentleness.” • Use Scripture, not personal opinion, as the plumb line (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 5. Pray Specifically for One Another’s Holiness • Colossians 1:9-12 offers a pattern: pray for knowledge, wisdom, endurance, and purity. • Follow up to share how God answers. Practical Ways to Model Holiness • Guard Media Intake – Psalm 101:3: “I will set no worthless thing before my eyes.” – Invite friends to join a media fast or accountability group. • Practice Generous Obedience – Luke 6:38—give time, resources, and forgiveness freely. – Let others see joyful sacrifice, not reluctant compliance. • Cultivate Distinct Speech – Ephesians 4:29—words that build up, not tear down. – Encourage others by refusing gossip and celebrating integrity. • Establish Rhythms of Rest and Worship – Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2:27—honor the Lord’s Day. – Invite others into family worship, hymn-singing, or Scripture reading. Speaking the Truth in Love Ephesians 4:15 links maturity to “speaking the truth in love.” • Truth without love wounds. • Love without truth weakens. Balance comes from staying close to Christ, “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). Relying on the Spirit’s Power • Romans 8:13—“By the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body.” • Encouragement fails if it rests on mere willpower; success is Spirit-empowered transformation. • Keep pointing friends to the Helper who indwells, convicts, and enables (John 14:26). End Result: A Community That Reflects God’s Beauty When believers spur one another on to holiness (Hebrews 10:24-25), the church becomes a living display of God’s character, inviting the watching world to behold His glory and grace. |
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