19th May, 2024
Speaker: Mr. Markus Bitrus (Auditor, COCIN PCC Bauchi)
Topic: Holiness and Fruitfulness
Text: I Peter 1:14-16
Introduction
In I Peter 1:14-16, we are called to a life of holiness: "As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
The Gap of Ignorance
Between us and holiness, there often lies a gap called ignorance. This ignorance stems from a lack of knowledge and understanding of God’s ways and His call for us to live holy lives. The scripture above in verse 14 urges us not to continue in this ignorance but to seek knowledge and wisdom through God’s word, thereby closing the gap and moving towards holiness.
Holiness as a Fruit
Holiness is described not as a seed or root, but as a fruit. The seed is God’s presence within us, planted through faith and the Holy Spirit. Holiness is the fruit that grows from this divine seed. It is the visible manifestation of a life transformed by God’s grace, reflecting His nature in our actions and character.
Holiness vs. Righteousness
Holiness and righteousness are distinct yet interconnected. Righteousness is a state of being right with God, often seen as a legal standing before Him, granted through faith in Jesus Christ. Holiness, on the other hand, is the practical outworking of this righteousness in our daily lives. It is the evidence of our righteous standing, expressed through our conduct and choices.
Bearing Fruit in Holiness
Our holiness must bear fruit. This means that a holy life will produce tangible outcomes that reflect God’s character. These fruits include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-self-control, as detailed in Galatians 5:22-23. A life of holiness is one that actively influences others positively and glorifies God.
Isaiah 32:15
Isaiah 32:15 speaks of a transformation that occurs when the Spirit is poured out: "Till the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest." This transformation signifies the fruitful and abundant life that comes from the Holy Spirit’s work within us, leading to holiness and fruitfulness.
Galatians 5:16
Galatians 5:16 encourages us to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." This walking by the Spirit is essential for living a holy life. It is through the Spirit’s guidance and power that we can overcome sinful desires and produce the fruits of holiness.
Conclusion
In summary, holiness is the fruit of a life rooted in God. By closing the gap of ignorance, understanding the distinction between righteousness and holiness, and allowing the Spirit to work in us, we can live lives that bear fruit in holiness, reflecting God’s character and impacting the world around us.
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Sermon Briefing: MAM
Pictures: MAM
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