(1) Holiness is not something that many people aspire to, even in the Church, but it is something God desires for us: ‘be holy because I am holy’ (1Peter 1:16).
(2) Holiness is not about rules and regulations, do’s and don’ts, but about becoming more like Jesus in our thoughts, words and actions and displaying the fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
(3) Holiness is not achieved by will-power, self-discipline or legalism but by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit; it is the ‘law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus’ that sets us free from the ‘law of sin and death’ (Romans 8:2).
(4) Holiness comes from sharing the life of Jesus and abiding in him: ‘if the root is holy, so are the branches’ (Romans 11:16)
(5) Holiness is not negative, harsh, judgemental or self-righteous but is warm, attractive and approachable: ‘worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (Psalm 96:9).
(6) Holiness involves being set apart for the purpose of God, being willing to be different, to swim against the tide, even to suffer: ‘But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life (2Timothy 1:8-9).’
(7) Holiness involves living according to God’s instructions and wisdom, for instance by taking care of ourselves, having proper rest, and avoiding a workaholic lifestyle: remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy (Exodus 20:8).’
(8) Holiness means respecting and caring for your body: ‘do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God (1Corinthians 6:19)?’
(9) Holiness can be seen by others, even if they find it disturbing and perplexing: Herod heard John the Baptist gladly, and acknowledged he was ‘a righteous and holy man (Mark 6:20)’, even though he later beheaded him.
(10) Holiness is a key factor in both prayer and worship: ‘I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing (1Timothy 2:8).’
