In need of holiness

I wonder how holiness got such a bad reputation. The Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:15-16:

1 Peter 1:15 "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (Leviticus 11:44–45; Leviticus 19:2; Hebrews 12:14-16)

It was important enough for Peter under inspiration of the Holy Spirit to remind us. He is quoting from the Old Testament book of Leviticus and may possibly have been thinking of the New Testament book of Hebrews as well. We are urged to be something that doesn’t sit well with many people.

When you hear holiness do you think of uber-religious, dour, prudish, judgmental, mean, strict Christians that no one would ever want to be? Here’s the key to understanding this verse. Everything just described has nothing to do with holiness.

Holiness is Jesus! Jesus is our model for holiness speaking the truth in love and loving in truth. He didn’t compromise. Holiness is Jesus saying love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Holiness is Jesus breaking all the religious traditions but not Scripture to heal on the Sabbath.

Holiness is Jesus showing up at a pool to heal a man waiting thirty-eight years for a cure. Holiness is Jesus putting His hands on a leper when a word would have sufficed. Holiness is Jesus showing up at a banquet to eat with people the rest of the culture had cancelled.

Holiness Is Jesus forever sharing His reputation with those who had forever ruined their own. Holiness is Jesus praying on the cross to forgive those who had put Him there. Holiness is Jesus. Not a bad thing after all.

Bud McConnaughey serves on the staff of North Summit Church, 201 N. Division, Sandpoint. If you want to know more about Jesus Christ and His hope, contact us www.northsummit.com . We’ll be glad to help you or refer you to numerous local congregations and pastors in Bonner County.