“Commanded To Be Holy” 1 Peter 1:13-25 Sunday, November 1, 2009 A Holy People “Commanded To Be Holy” 1 Peter 1:13-25 Sunday, November 1, 2009

A Holy People Today’s Lesson – God’s requirements for holy living. Lesson Focus - Holiness is still God’s standard of righteousness for the believer. In an unholy, ungodly, hostile world environment, Christians are commanded to be holy. “Be ye holy, for I am holy!”

Fast Facts on 1st Peter Author: Peter the Apostle Purpose: To offer encouragement to suffering Christians. When: Written about AD 62-64 From: Peter was possibly in Rome Key Word: Suffering Key Theme: Proper response to Christian suffering.

Fast Facts on Peter the Man A fisherman of Galilee Called by Jesus as one of 12. Given a new name meaning ‘Rock’. Impulsive, brash, spoke without thinking first. Denied Jesus 3 times. Became one of strongest key leaders in early church.

A Holy People Holiness is expected of the people of God. What is holiness? (2 aspects of Biblical holiness) 1. Separation/ Sanctification – To be set apart. 2. Morally pure – To be clean & untainted by sin.

A Holy People The holy character of our God is mirrored in His people. The idol & pagan gods of Peter’s day & their followers were morally corrupt. God alone is absolutely “holy”.

A Holy People Get Your Mind Together!!! Gird Up!!! Be mentally alert = Think clearly. Be disciplined = Exercise self control. Stay focused = Look forward/ Keep your eyes on the prize.

10 Principles of Holy Living in Psalm 15 Lead a blameless life. Always speak the truth. Refuse to gossip. Refuse to harm your neighbor. Don’t speak evil of anyone. 6. Despise flagrant sinners. 7. Honor those who love the Lord. 8. Keep your promises. 9. Lend money without interest. 10. Don’t accept bribes.

A Holy People For A Holy God Reverently fear & trust God. Remember – You were not redeemed with silver & gold, But with the precious blood of Christ – the sinless, spotless, Lamb of God.

A Holy People For A Holy God You Can Live Holy! – You cannot become & live holy in your own strength. You must be cleansed from your sins. You must receive God’s Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will empower you to obey & overcome sin.

A Holy People For A Holy God In what specific areas do you need to make holiness a higher priority? What hindrances will you overcome to do this?

A Holy People For A Holy God What can we do to change from a mindset of “my life is mine to live as I please” to “my life belongs to God, and I live to please Him?

A Holy People For A Holy God Holiness Habits – One way I will grow closer to God this week is by . . . I will find a way to serve God in the area of . . . With God’s help I will strive to overcome the sin of . . .