Holiness Is an Intentional Choice

As long as we are here in this world, we will be subject to temptations. The Bible makes that very clear. But temptation is not sin. It is merely an invitation to sin. Our moral character will depend on whether or not we accept those invitations." — J. W. Jepson

The choice between intentional holiness and intentional sin is one we all make daily. Holiness is not merely a philosophical theory, nor is sin. Both holiness and sin are practical actions.

It’s not enough to say, “I want to abandon sin, I want to be more like Christ.” A radical decision is required—followed by a struggle against the carnal nature that leans toward sin. New birth is evidenced in everyday life, in daily practice, in the act of choosing holiness through the inclination of the spirit to do what pleases God. Holiness is rooted in loving God above all things, and because holiness involves communion, it is also grounded in loving our neighbor as ourselves.

Holiness and sin are diametrically opposed practices. According to the epistle of 1 John, they are contrary decisions and cannot coexist. It is impossible to live in holiness while sinning. It is impossible to be saved and at the same time be spiritually classified as a child of wrath. It is impossible to inherit heaven while fulfilling the works of hell.

Sin creates separation between man and God. But Jesus Christ came to destroy the works of the devil, so that sin no longer has power over the children of God—those who were bought at a high price and have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. These are the ones who no longer live according to the works of the flesh but according to the Spirit, and are no longer under condemnation, but have passed from death to life!

JESUS lived as a human being, and in human form—being 100% man—He was perfect in everything and never sinned. This human aspect does not negate the fact that He was also 100% God. But as a man, He overcame sin every day of His earthly life. He went through every stage of natural human development and remained spotless in all of them. The Gospel according to Luke reveals Jesus as the perfect man—He proved to us that it is possible to overcome sin. So let us draw near to the One who has already overcome the world and seek His help so that we too may overcome.

The Spirit of God manifests as the Holy Spirit—the Sanctifying Spirit—and this is the work He performs in us, making us more like Jesus, sanctifying us for every good work. Christ overcame the world, and this is the victory that overcomes the world: our faith!

We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us—Jesus Christ!