The Foundation of a Holy Life - 1 Peter 1:13-25

by David Woods

Discussion: Describe "holiness" people.

Discussion: Define the biblical definition of "holy" and "holiness."

The lesson comments (vv. 15, 16) state:

Our lives are to be patterned after His nature. A synonym for the nature of God is holiness. Holiness is not an attribute of God; holiness is basic to His entity. He is complete in His holiness and will only be pleased when those who serve Him are a replica of His character. As He is holy by nature, so we must be in conduct…. To be holy is to be like Christ in essence and ethics. (p. 6)

Big Idea: God's plan for His people is Christlikeness.

Discussion: How do the Gospels picture Jesus' nature and conduct?
(The following list is not necessarily exhaustive:

• He obeyed (and was supremely concerned about) His Father's will.
• He was the friend of sinners.
• He brought healing/forgiveness/relief to the people's problems.
• He was jealous for God to receive the glory due Him.
• He was loving to those trapped in sin, but harsh toward those using religion to cloak their sinfulness.

Discussion: On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being most and 1 being least), how "Christlike" is the holiness movement?

Discussion: In practical ways, how does a Christian practice Christlike behavior?

In these questions, I do not mean to invalidate our concern for careful living, dress standards, etc. However, I am concerned that much of the conservative holiness movement has the wrong focus and understanding of what it means to be "holy." Holiness is not about rules. Our standard is not a set of rules; our standard is Christ.

Furthermore, holiness is, or should be, predominantly positive. We want to be holy because we love our Lord and want to please Him and want deliverance from all sin - both committed and inbred. Holiness is also active. It is not just a state of being; it is a way of living.

The writer of the "Doctrinal Discussion" states:

Holiness, in God, is the state in which we find no moral imperfection in the entire nature of God. Love is holiness in activity. Even in these actions there is total moral perfection and total objectivity in this great love. (p. 8)

Discussion: Why does God desire His people to be holy?

Discussion: How has God provided for us to be made holy?

Discussion: Is it necessary for us to be holy? Why?