Perfecting Holiness

by Hugh DeLong

“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (II Corinthians 7:1).

Holiness

Absolute holiness is seen in the very character of God. He will not do wrong. He is not tempted by sin. Justice and Righteousness are the foundation of His throne.

We have been called unto holiness, to be separated from sin. Reread II Corinthians 6:14-18. We, as God’s people, are to be separate from the world and ungodliness. Here, we are to complete (perfect) holiness. ‘Perfect’ means complete. We began our holiness at conversion when we were set apart unto God. We entered into this relationship with God. Now, as God’s people, we must complete that demand.

Hebrews says that God, as our father, “…disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.” Then, Hebrews 12:14 instructs us: “Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.”

This is a growing prospect. In awe of God and His holiness, we are to be becoming more and more holy. We are striving to be holy as He is holy. Peter wrote: “But like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy'" (I Peter 1:15-16).

Are you pursuing and perfecting holiness in your life?