07/22/2025
EXHORTATION ON "HOLINESS"
By Bishop John Auta Pena
North Georgia Conference
Global Methodist Church
Holiness, at its core, means being set apart for God, reflecting His character in our lives. It's not just about outward actions, but an inward transformation fueled by a relationship with Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice, we are made holy, and by His Spirit, we are empowered to pursue a life of increasing purity, obedience, and love, reflecting God's own holiness in our daily walk.
What is Holiness?
Separation:- Holiness involves being separated from sin and the world's corrupting influences, and set apart for God's purposes.
Purity:- It means striving for moral and spiritual purity, seeking to align our thoughts, words, and actions with God's will.
Reflection of God:- Holiness reflects God's own character – His love, righteousness, and justice.
How Do We Pursue Holiness?
Relationship with Christ:- Our journey towards holiness begins with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who lived a perfectly holy life and offers forgiveness and new life through His sacrifice.
Obedience to God's Word:- God's Word, the Bible, provides guidance on how to live a holy life, revealing His will and standards.
Empowered by the Spirit:- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live holy lives, giving them the strength and desire to resist temptation and grow in righteousness.
Fleeing Temptation:- We must actively resist temptation and turn away from sin, recognizing its destructive nature.
Seeking God's Presence:- Spending time in prayer and worship allows us to draw closer to God and be transformed by His presence.
Living in Love:- Love for God and others is a key component of holiness, demonstrating God's character in our relationships.
Why Pursue Holiness?
God Commands it:
Scripture commands believers to pursue holiness, making it a non-negotiable aspect of Christian living.
Necessary for Seeing God:- Hebrews 12:14 states, "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord".
Reflects God's Glory:- A holy life brings glory to God and allows others to see His transformative power.
Brings Blessings:- Holiness leads to greater joy, peace, and intimacy with God, as well as a greater impact on the world.
In Conclusion:
Holiness is not a destination, but a journey, a lifelong pursuit empowered by God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit. It is a call to be set apart, to reflect God's character, and to live a life that honors Him in all things.