INTRODUCTION
For many people the word _holiness_ conjures up images of a self-righetous person who is totally removed from the problems of the world, talks only about “spiritual things” and is serious and even sullen in appearance. Yet the New Testament word _holy_ is uswd to describe God’s people in general and not a select few.
GROUP DISCUSSION
People often view pastors, priests, missionaries and full-time Christian workers as more holy than other Christians. Why do you think this is so?
PERSONAL REFLECTION
How do you feel about studying holiness?
Holiness is the goal of the Christian’s life and is fundamental to our witness and service in the world. Robert Murray McCheyne has rightly written that a holy person is “an awesome weapon in the hand of God.” In this light, we need to recapture the biblical call to holy living. _Read Ephesians 4:17-5:7_.
In verses 17-19 Paul describes how the Gentiles live. How does he characterise their minds, hearts and practices?
How does this description compare with the world you experience everyday? Explain. In contrast to the non-Christians described in verses 17-19, how were the Ephesians taught to live as Christians (vv. 20-24)?
Putting off our old self and putting on the new is a way of describing what happens when we become Christians. How does this description shed light on the nature of conversion? If you are to become like God in true righteousness and holiness (v. 24), why is it essential for you to “be made new in the attitude of your mind” (v. 23)?
In practical terms, what can we do to renew our minds? Because of our new identity in Christ, what things must be put away, and what things ought to take their place (vv. 25-32)?
With each command in verses 25-32, explain the reason Paul calls us to live differently. How can we imitate God and Christ in our relationships with others (5:1-2)?
Why is it “improper” and “out of place” for God’s holy people to do the things mentioned in verses 3-4?
Which of these do you have the greatest avoiding? Explain.
Looking back over this passage, what different areas of our life are to be affected by holiness?
What type of behaviour do you most need to put off and put on, and what steps can you take to change this area of your life?
_Pray that the Holy Spirit would give you an increasing desire to be like Christ._
“`Now or Later“`
Read Isaiah 6 noting how Isaiah responds to the holiness of God.
