Holiness: optional for Christians?

Holiness is not optional because:

It is given through Christ

• II Timothy 1:8-10 – This was the plan from the very beginning.
• Hebrews 10:10-14, 19-26 – By Christ’s one perfect sacrifice, we can be made holy.

It is required for fellowship with God

• Who will see the Lord?
  • Hebrews 12:14
  • Psalms 15:1-5 – Who shall sojourn in your tent?
    • Psalms 15:2
      • He who walks uprightly
      • He who works righteousness
      • He who speaks truth in His heart
    • Psalms 15:3
      • Does not slander with his tongue
      • Does not do evil with his neighbor
      • Does not take up reproach from his friend
    • Psalms 15:4
      • Despises vile people and honors God-fearing people
      • Who keeps an oath even when it hurts
    • Psalms 15:5
      • Who is fair and honest in financial matters

It is required for effective service to God

• II Timothy 2:19-21 – Do you have “china” (place settings) in your house?
  • II Timothy 2:21 – Gives a description of the honorable vessel. “Set apart as holy” and therefore “useful to the master.”