How does maintaining holiness impact our witness in the world today? Setting the Scene: Holiness in Leviticus 21:6 “ ‘They are to be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God, for they present the offerings made by fire to the LORD, the food of their God. So they must be holy.’ ” (Leviticus 21:6) From Ancient Priests to Modern Believers • Priests carried God’s reputation before the watching nations; their personal holiness kept His name untarnished. • Under the new covenant, every follower of Christ is part of “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). • We now “present [our] bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). • The call to holiness did not lessen with time; it became even more personal. Why Holiness Shapes Our Witness • Shows God’s character: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). • Guards His name from ridicule: a pure life removes excuses for mocking faith (Titus 2:7-8). • Demonstrates the power of grace to transform (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Produces visible light in a dark world: “Let your light shine before men” (Matthew 5:16). • Creates credibility when we speak the gospel (1 Thessalonians 2:10). Practical Ways Holiness Speaks Loudly • Integrity at work: refuse shady shortcuts (Colossians 3:23-24). • Purity in relationships: honor marriage, avoid sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). • Distinct speech: truth-telling, no coarse joking (Ephesians 4:29). • Compassion in action: meet needs without fanfare (James 1:27). • Content entertainment choices: “set no worthless thing before my eyes” (Psalm 101:3). • Sabbath rhythms: regular worship and rest declare God’s worth (Hebrews 10:25). Countering Common Obstacles • Cultural pressure—remember “Do not be conformed to this world” (Romans 12:2). • Hidden sin—confess quickly; “He is faithful and just to forgive” (1 John 1:9). • Isolation—seek fellowship; “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). • Fatigue—draw strength from the Spirit; “those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). Encouragement to Keep Walking in Holiness • Holiness is not legalism; it is love responding to grace (John 14:15). • God supplies the power: “It is God who works in you to will and to act” (Philippians 2:13). • A holy life turns ordinary moments into offerings that honor His name and naturally point others to Christ. |
    |