Have you ever asked yourself, “What does God want from me?” Some of us may answer, “To believe in Jesus and go to heaven.” Others may respond, “To be a good person?” I Peter tells us that it is God’s desire for His people be holy and uses the book of Leviticus to solidify this claim. The book of Leviticus, the third book of the Old Testament, goes into specific detail about the religious, moralistic, ritualistic (ceremonial) and legal requirements for God’s people. In other words, the book of Leviticus shows God’s people what it means to be holy (set apart). In fact, because the Lord God is holy, it is a logical conclusion that those who belong to him should be somehow holy as well. I believe the call to be holy is real and is for all who are “in” Jesus Christ. Yet, I have served the Church for approximately 17 years, and I am often reminded just how “unholy” I and others can be! In looking at the brokenness of God’s people (including myself), I feel the astonishment of Paul who asked, “We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer” (Romans 6:2, NIV).
A theological term that is used alongside holiness is sanctification. The doctrine(s) of sanctification is used to describe the process (the how) of becoming holy. Any doctrine of sanctification must begin with the person and work of the Spirit who dwells within those who belong to and live for Jesus. The Spirit that rose Jesus Christ from death resides in those “in Christ” and gives God’s power and perspective to live a new live. Yet, we are responsible to participate with the Spirit through spiritual disciplines that humble, grow and sustain us in the Christian journey. One such discipline is the study of Scripture. In describing the importance of Scripture in the Christian life, author John Piper stated, “Spiritual life — eternal life — just like physical life, must be fed, not by bread, but by the word of God” Thus, Scripture gives us special revelation (understanding) of God’s word concerning this world and the one to come.
Friends, I believe that this year’s Presidential election season will be highly contentious and divisive. I am concerned that things may get so intense, that there may be verbal and physical violence. I am certain that voices from both political parties will be loudly proclaiming why their respective positions are correct. Yet, there is also a voice proclaiming something much deeper and more powerful. Will you take time to listen to the Holy One? To help you to do so we will be offering small group studies.
Small Group Studies begins Tuesday, September 17, 7:00 pm, at Anne Ashley Community Church. Classes will be the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Booklets cost $10.
Women’s Study on “Faith: Depending on God.”
Open Study (Male and Female) on “The Names of God.”
May we grow in holiness together,
Pastor Keith