Holiness Is Essential for Christian Living

By Dave JenkinsHoliness is not a way for Christians to earn God’s acceptance. It is the fruit of belonging to Christ and being transformed by His grace.In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why holiness is essential for Christian living, what it means to be set apart for God, and why the pursuit of holiness flows from salvation rather than leading to salvation.Many Christians hear the word holiness and immediately think about rules, restrictions, or a list of things they should avoid. Scripture presents holiness much differently. God calls His people to reflect His character, grow in Christlikeness, and pursue faithful obedience through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.

Listen or Watch

 

Holiness Flows From Salvation

First Peter 1:15–16 says:

“But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’”

Peter does not tell Christians to pursue holiness so that God will accept them. Instead, believers pursue holiness because God has already called and saved them. Christians are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, but the same grace that saves also transforms.Holiness is therefore not the basis of salvation. It is the fruit of genuine conversion and part of God’s work of conforming His people to the image of His Son.

What Biblical Holiness Means

At its heart, holiness means being set apart for God. God Himself is perfectly holy, completely separate from sin, and morally perfect in every way. Because Christians belong to Him, they are called to live lives that increasingly reflect His character.This does not mean Christians attain sinless perfection in this life. Rather, holiness describes the direction of the Christian life as believers grow in obedience, repentance, and likeness to Christ.

Holiness Is Not Legalism

Biblical holiness and legalism are not the same thing. Legalism attempts to earn God’s favor through human effort. Biblical holiness flows from God’s favor already given through Jesus Christ.Grace does not remove the need for holiness. Grace produces holiness. The gospel not only forgives sinners but also transforms them.Hebrews 12:14 calls Christians to “strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” Romans 12:1–2 calls believers to present themselves as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. Second Corinthians 7:1 likewise urges Christians to pursue holiness in the fear of God.

How Christians Pursue Holiness

Christians pursue holiness by remaining rooted in the gospel and dependent upon the grace of God.

• Begin with the gospel. No one can grow in true holiness apart from Jesus Christ.
• Spend consistent time in the Word of God. The Holy Spirit uses Scripture to shape, renew, and transform believers.
• Practice daily repentance. Growth in holiness does not mean never sinning. It means continually turning away from sin and toward Christ.
• Pursue faithful obedience. God uses ordinary, ongoing obedience as an important means of sanctification.

Holiness Is Rooted in Union With Christ

Ultimately, holiness is rooted in the believer’s union with Jesus Christ. Jesus lived the perfectly holy life sinners could never live, died for their sins, and rose again to secure their salvation.Those who are united to Christ by faith are not only forgiven. They are also being transformed. The same Savior who justifies His people is also sanctifying them.Holiness is not the way Christians earn God’s acceptance. It is evidence that they belong to Him.

---

Listen to More Anchored in the Word

Anchored in the Word is a weekly segment of the Servants of Grace podcast devoted to helping Christians stay rooted in Scripture, grow in sound doctrine, and live faithfully before Christ.

Explore Anchored in the Word

Listen to More Episodes