The Power of Holiness: Cleansing, Purification, and Witnessing

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Holiness
   1. Understanding the Scripture
   2. The Command for Holiness
   3. The Punishment for Unholiness
3. The Old Testament and Holiness
   1. The Standard of Perfection
   2. The Discipline of the Law
   3. The Inner Desires
4. Our Role as Witnesses
   1. Deliverance from Sin
   2. Leading a Holy Life
   3. Reflecting the Cross
5. Embracing Chastisement
   1. Accepting Discipline
   2. Purification and Growth
   3. The Shortness of Life
6. The Period of Grace
   1. Abundance of Grace
   2. Expecting Punishment
   3. Attaining Heavenly Nature
7. Conclusion

The Importance of Holiness

Holiness, in all its purity and righteousness, is a fundamental aspect of our relationship with God. As divine beings, we are called to reflect the holiness of our heavenly Father. The scripture tells us that evil lies deep within the heart of a person and can only be removed through discipline and punishment. Our creator desires for us to be holy, just as He is holy.

Understanding the Scripture

Proverbs 20:30 presents an intriguing concept that the blueness of a wound cleanses evil, and stripes purify the inward parts of the belly. Although this may seem like a physical punishment, it carries a deeper meaning. It signifies that severe discipline can cleanse and purify the heart, removing the stains of sin.

The Command for Holiness

The children of Israel, chosen by God, were commanded to be holy and reflect His nature. Sacrifices and offerings were not enough to cleanse their hearts from impurity. They needed to understand the seriousness of God's command and the impure nature that resides within them.

The Old Testament and Holiness

The Old Testament saints were not given the standard of perfection that God has set before us. They were given laws and commands that disciplined their lives, outwardly controlling their physical behaviors. These commandments taught them to be careful about their physical needs and actions but also acted as a warning to be cautious about their innermost desires.

Our Role as Witnesses

As followers of Christ, we have been delivered from the clutches of sin. We now have a divine purpose to lead a holy life that reflects the work of the cross. Just as the children of Israel were meant to be a witness to the Gentile nations, we too must show the world the holy nature of God and the deliverance that comes through Jesus Christ.

Embracing Chastisement

As children of God, we must willingly accept the discipline and chastisement of our heavenly Father. It is through these corrective measures that we are purified from our impurities and grow into the likeness of the Lord. Our father's punishments are not meant to be mocked but embraced as a means of purification.

The Period of Grace

In this period of grace, we have received an abundance of God's grace, blessings, and promises. However, this does not mean we are exempt from punishment. We must expect and willingly receive the chastisement of our heavenly Father, understanding that it is necessary for our purification and growth towards heavenly nature.

Conclusion

Holiness is not a concept to be taken lightly. It is the very essence of our relationship with God and our purpose as His children. Through discipline and chastisement, we are cleansed and purified. As we embrace this purification process, we become witnesses to the work of the cross and the holy nature of God. May we surrender ourselves at the foot of the cross and live a life that pleases the Lord.

Highlights

• Holiness is a fundamental aspect of our relationship with God.
• Severe discipline and punishment can cleanse and purify the heart.
• Sacrifices and offerings are not enough to remove the impurity within us.
• The Old Testament saints were disciplined through laws and commands.
• We are called to be witnesses of the work of the cross and the holy nature of God.
• Chastisement from our heavenly Father is necessary for our purification.
• In the period of grace, we must expect and accept punishment as part of our growth.
• Holiness is not to be taken lightly, but embraced wholeheartedly.
• Our lives should reflect the work of the cross and the holy nature of God.
• Surrendering ourselves at the foot of the cross leads to a pleasing life before the Lord.

FAQ

Q: Can sacrifices and offerings cleanse our hearts from impurity? A: No, sacrifices and offerings can only address outward actions, not the inner nature of our hearts.

Q: What is the purpose of the command for holiness? A: The command for holiness aims to make us reflect the nature of God and be a witness to His holiness.

Q: Why is chastisement necessary for our purification? A: Chastisement helps to remove impurities and mold us into the holy nature of the Lord.

Q: Are we exempt from punishment in the period of grace? A: No, despite receiving abundant grace, we must still expect and accept punishment for our growth and purification.

Q: Why is holiness important in our relationship with God? A: Holiness allows us to have a deeper and more meaningful connection with our heavenly Father.