Why is holiness essential for a believer according to 1 Thessalonians 4:7? The Call Defined “For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness.” (1 Thessalonians 4:7) What Does “Called” Mean? • Saved people are not just rescued from judgment; they are summoned into a new way of life. • God’s calling is authoritative—much like Jesus’ call to Lazarus. It commands a complete shift from the old life to the new (John 11:43–44; 2 Corinthians 5:17). Why Holiness Is Essential • It is God’s stated purpose. Anything less than holiness rejects His intention for us. • Holiness proves the reality of conversion (Hebrews 12:14). • It safeguards fellowship with God (Psalm 24:3–4). • It protects the purity of the church’s witness (Matthew 5:16). • It resists the pull of impurity that ruins lives (Romans 6:19–22). • It prepares believers for Christ’s return (1 John 3:2–3). The Contrast Paul Draws • Impurity: Moral uncleanness, especially sexual sin (see 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5). • Holiness: Separation from sin and devotion to God’s character (1 Peter 1:15–16). Paul’s “but” shows these two are mutually exclusive; choosing impurity rejects God’s call. Practical Pathways to Holiness • Renew the mind daily with Scripture (Psalm 119:9–11). • Flee tempting situations and pursue righteousness (2 Timothy 2:22). • Walk by the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16). • Submit every area—body, thoughts, habits—to God (Romans 12:1–2). • Engage in accountable fellowship (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Confess and forsake sin immediately (1 John 1:9). Encouragement from God’s Character • The God who calls supplies power to obey (1 Thessalonians 5:23–24). • Holiness is joyful, not burdensome (Psalm 16:11). • The end goal is likeness to Christ, the very picture of holiness (Romans 8:29). Summary Snapshot Holiness isn’t an optional upgrade for the advanced Christian; it is the very reason God called us. To neglect it is to contradict His clear purpose, but to embrace it is to live the life He designed, empowered by His Spirit, and marked by the beauty of Christ’s character. |
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