Living in Holiness in Modern Times

By: Rev. Scott Armstrong

Key Verses: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” – 2 Peter 1:3-4 NIV.

After the Sunday morning service had ended, I overheard a conversation in the foyer of the church building. The sermon had been on holiness, a distinctive of our denomination.

“You don’t really think we can live holy lives, do you?” asked one middle-aged woman. “I mean, holiness is just for God and certain saints like Mother Theresa, right?”

“Well, maybe it was easier centuries ago before all of the current temptations of media and our culture,” her friend answered. “Nowadays I just don’t see how anyone could stay pure for more than a day or two and still function in society!”

Even if you would never admit it out loud, do you find yourself thinking the same thing? Is holiness too lofty a standard for a modern-day believer?

I could see that line of thinking if we considered the Bible as nothing more than a collection of notable ancient texts. But if we believe Scripture is inspired and applicable throughout the centuries – in other words, all the way up until present day – we must acknowledge that God’s will is for his children to be holy as he is holy (Lev. 11:44,45; 19:2; 20:7; 1 Peter 1:16).

Slowly read our key verses from 2 Peter again. God is not making a demand he cannot help us keep. His godly power has provided us every single essential thing we need to live victoriously (1:3a). How is that possible? Through knowing him more and more, growing in our relationship with him (1:3b). Even more amazingly, he wants us to “participate in the divine nature” and share with him in his very likeness (1:4b)! He guarantees that we can stand up to temptation and escape sin: yes, you! And yes, me (1:4c)!

These were not promises given only to first-century followers of Christ. This same power can be accessed today, by all of us smart phone carrying, Netflix watching disciples, too. It comes down to this: God would never call us to a standard of holiness without providing the power to live holy lives, as well. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is also living and working in you and me!

Prayer: Father, forgive me for doubting your power to make me holy. I want to live a life of holiness. Make me pure and like your Son. In Jesus’ name, amen.