Holiness in Mission

Romans 10:5–15 CEB

5 Moses writes about the righteousness that comes from the Law: The person who does these things will live by them. 6 But the righteousness that comes from faith talks like this: Don’t say in your heart, “Who will go up into heaven?” (that is, to bring Christ down) 7 or “Who will go down into the region below?” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). 8 But what does it say? The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart (that is, the message of faith that we preach). 9 Because if you confess with your mouth “Jesus is Lord” and in your heart you have faith that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation. 11 The scripture says, All who have faith in him won’t be put to shame. 12 There is no distinction between Jew and Greek, because the same Lord is Lord of all, who gives richly to all who call on him. 13 All who call on the Lord’s name will be saved. 14 So how can they call on someone they don’t have faith in? And how can they have faith in someone they haven’t heard of? And how can they hear without a preacher? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who announce the good news.

Holiness In Mission

Picture a master potter at his wheel, absorbed in his task. His deft hands mold the clay into something beautiful and functional. The clay responds to the motion of the wheel, changing from a blob to a functional object.

Envision the potter placing the finished vessel in the middle of a busy marketplace. When he displays it for everyone to see, he hopes it will be used as intended, not merely admired from afar. Although the potter's work stands out for its originality and quality, its ultimate value lies in the hands that hold it and the function it serves.

It's not hard to see how much we resemble the clay in the potter's hands, dear friends. God, the Master Potter, forms us with great care, making us into vessels fit for the holy use for which we were created. The goal of the potter's work extends beyond the bounds of his studio, and so do the missions to which God has called his people. Our sanctity is not something to be hoarded, but rather something to be poured out for all to see.

My prayer is that as we look at Romans 10:5-15, we will see how sanctification is linked to service. This verse prompts us to consider how our faith isn't meant to be confined to the walls of the church building, but rather to shine through all we do and say. It's about being holy in a way that makes a difference in the world.

The mission we are called to perform gives full expression to our holiness, just as the potter's vessel finds its fullness in the hands of those who use it. We are not passive observers on this path, but rather participants with God in the process of redemption and renewal.

May we be receptive to the life-altering influence of holiness in mission. God grant us the courage to accept our calling as His vessels, bringing His light into a world that so urgently needs it.

Let us now travel to Paul's words and learn how holiness sparks our mission, transforming us into instruments of God's will and vessels of hope.

When we think about the image of the potter and the clay, we come to the realization that just as the touch of the potter molds the clay, so too does our faith in Christ shape us into vessels that are holy. This gets us to the first subject we will be discussing today, which is "The Holiness of God's Standard." The Apostle Paul leads us into a deeper knowledge of God's standard of righteousness and how it forms the foundation of our purpose as vessels of holiness. This passage serves as a guide for us as we seek to fulfill our role as holy vessels.

The words of Paul serve to remind us that the journey toward holiness is not about achieving a standard through our own efforts, but rather about embracing the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. This truth is brought to mind by Paul's words. It is about coming to terms with the fact that our holiness is a mirror of the very nature of God, a character that distinguishes us from others and gives us the ability to carry out the task for which we were formed in the first place.

So, let's delve deep into these words and unearth the richness of Paul's message. We are going to establish the foundation for understanding how our faith connects with our mission and how it impacts the way that we engage with the world around us as we investigate the holiness of the standard that God has set for us.

The Holiness of God's Standard

Romans 10:5–8 CEB

5 Moses writes about the righteousness that comes from the Law: The person who does these things will live by them. 6 But the righteousness that comes from faith talks like this: Don’t say in your heart, “Who will go up into heaven?” (that is, to bring Christ down) 7 or “Who will go down into the region below?” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). 8 But what does it say? The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart (that is, the message of faith that we preach).

The Holiness of God's Standard

Paul explains the significance of God's righteousness and how it transforms us from the inside. The teachings of Paul will help us understand that the path of our faith is not simply about expressing our beliefs with our mouths but also about bringing our hearts into alignment with the divine ideal that God has set.

The Apostle Paul confronts us with the truth of an impossible standard—the righteousness defined by the law—in Romans 10:5-8. He refers to Moses' teachings, reminding us that the law's demands are strict and unyielding.

The Israelites were given a precise standard of righteousness in the Mosaic law. It was a divine law designed to direct their lives and demonstrate God's righteousness. However, as Paul points out, the standards of the law were harsh, requiring perfect obedience to every commandment. Paul says in Romans 10:5 (NIV), "Moses writes this about the righteousness that is by the law: 'The person who does these things will live by them.'" (Exodus 18:5)

Human nature, however, is characterized by imperfection, and no amount of effort could result in perfect compliance with the law. To demonstrate the impossibility of reaching this righteousness, Paul quotes Deuteronomy 30:12-14: "Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend into heaven?' (that is, to bring Christ down) or 'Who will descend into the deep?' (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead)." The inability to reach heaven or descend to the depths emphasizes the futility of human attempt to accomplish this standard.

Paul lays the framework for a great revelation in these words. He is preparing us to understand that righteousness is not something we can achieve on our own. Instead, faith in Christ makes righteousness possible. This justice is not far away, hidden, or unattainable; it is close at hand. "But the righteousness that is by faith says: 'Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend into heaven?' (that is, to bring Christ down) or 'Who will descend into the deep?' (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead)," Paul writes in Romans 10:6-7 (NIV).

Stuart Briscoe wrote: Faith is, first of all, heart belief in the reality of Christ’s Resurrection. [1]

Transition: As we comprehend the significance of this righteousness through faith, we begin to see the changes it brings to our lives. This metamorphosis is crucial to our mission as vessels of holiness. Let us go deeper into the verse and see how our confession of Jesus as Lord intersects with this righteousness, propelling us into a mission with tremendous meaning and impact.

To highlight the lesson of faith, Paul quotes from Deuteronomy and the Psalms. To reclaim this righteousness, he contrasts the impossibility of climbing to heaven or plunging to the depths. Instead, Jesus shows that the righteousness of faith is close at hand, within our hearts and on our lips. It is righteousness that acknowledges Christ's completion of the law as well as our response to God's grace.

Accepting this holiness transforms us from the inside out. Once burdened by the weight of unreachable norms, our souls are now filled with the transformative force of Christ's righteousness. With this righteousness in our hearts, our lips find purpose in acknowledging Jesus as Lord—the foundation of our faith and mission.

Understanding the holy character of God's standard empowers us to begin on a mission that goes beyond mere proclamation. Our mission becomes an outpouring of the righteousness we obtained through faith. Just as the potter's vessel finds completion in its intended use, our lives find fulfillment in a mission that reflects God's character—a mission that carries Christ's light into the world's darkness.

As we reflect on the holiness of God's standard, let us ask ourselves: Are we striving for righteousness through our own efforts, or are we surrendering to the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ? Are our hearts in tune with His transformative power, which is transforming us into vessels of His holiness? And, as we go out on mission, are we letting the righteousness in our hearts guide our words and deeds, declaring Christ as Lord?

As we grasp the significance of God's standard, let's journey deeper into Romans 10:9-13 and explore how our confession of Jesus as Lord intertwines with our mission of holiness. Let us uncover the link between our faith declaration and the revolutionary work we are called to do together.

Romans 10:9–13 CEB

9 Because if you confess with your mouth “Jesus is Lord” and in your heart you have faith that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 Trusting with the heart leads to righteousness, and confessing with the mouth leads to salvation. 11 The scripture says, All who have faith in him won’t be put to shame. 12 There is no distinction between Jew and Greek, because the same Lord is Lord of all, who gives richly to all who call on him. 13 All who call on the Lord’s name will be saved.

The Holiness of Mission

The Apostle Paul bridges the gap between our confession of Jesus as Lord and the mission that arises from that confession in Romans 10:9-13. This passage underlines that our faith isn't supposed to stay in our hearts; rather, it's a motivating force for action—a call to live holiness in the context of our mission.

Paul says, "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." This confession is extremely important. It's more than just a statement; it's a declaration that Jesus is not only our Savior but also the Lord of our lives. This confession initiates a transformation—a transformation that extends beyond brain recognition and into our emotions, affecting our wants, goals, and actions.

As vessels of this transformation, our mission takes on new significance. Our lives are no longer defined primarily by worldly pursuits, but rather by the pursuit of God's will. This transformed heart manifests itself in a mission that reflects the very nature of the One we confess as Lord.

Paul does not limit this invitation to a chosen few. He affirms in Romans 10:11-12, "Anyone who believes in him will never be ashamed... for there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all." This all-inclusive invitation reminds us that the purpose of living out holiness is not restricted by cultural background, socioeconomic standing, or faults made in the past. It is an open invitation to everyone who believe.

Embracing holiness in mission entails more than simply words. It is a commitment to live out Christ's teachings and values in all aspects of our lives. It is showing grace, compassion, forgiveness, and communicating the transformative gospel of salvation. Our deeds mirror our declaration of Jesus as Lord, connecting with the very core of holiness.

Picture yourself standing on the rocks of the coast, surrounded by the huge ocean. As night falls, you see a far-off glow on the horizon. It's a steady line of light that cuts through the darkness. It's the light from a lighthouse, which gives ships in dangerous seas a sign of hope and safety.

A lighthouse is more than just a pretty building. Its clear purpose is to lead ships away from danger and into harbor. But let's say that the lightkeeper works hard to keep the lamp in the lighthouse lit, but forgets to turn on the lantern that shines the guided light. Even though it has an internal light, it hasn't done what it was supposed to do.

In the same way, our faith is like the light inside the beacon. It changes us from the inside out. When we say that Jesus is Lord and believe in our hearts, that light inside of us comes on. It is a light of salvation, kindness, and holiness. But our job, like the lighthouse lantern, is to shine that light outward and lead others to the safe haven of God's love.

Our confession isn't just something we say to ourselves and keep to ourselves; it's a call to action. Just as a lighthouse's job is done when its light cuts through the darkness to guide ships, our mission is done when our changed lives, powered by our confession of Jesus as Lord, lead those around us to the hope and safety found in Christ.

As holy vessels, we become living lighthouses that shine the light of Christ's change and invite others to take shelter in His kindness. Our words, actions, and relationships become rays of hope that pull people out of life's storms and into God's love.

 As we carry out this transformational mission, we become holiness ambassadors—representatives of Christ's redeeming work. Our lives are revolutionized when we confess Jesus as Lord, and we become living witnesses to His grace and love. We carry His light into a world in search of truth, hope, and meaning.

Think about how your transformed life, which comes from confessing that Jesus is Lord, can be a light for those around you. How can how you treat your family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers show that you are holy? Just like a lighthouse helps keep ships safe by pointing them in the right direction, your job is to point people to the saving grace of Christ by being holy.

The beauty of our transformed lives isn't confined to our own experience; it's designed to draw others into the same transformative encounter with Christ. Our confession of Jesus as Lord propels us to engage in a mission that brings the message of salvation to those who are yet to hear it.

Romans 10:14–15 CEB

14 So how can they call on someone they don’t have faith in? And how can they have faith in someone they haven’t heard of? And how can they hear without a preacher? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who announce the good news.

The Beautiful Feet of Messengers

In Romans 10:14-15, the Apostle Paul talks about "beautiful feet" that bring good news. This is a powerful picture. These verses show how important it is for messengers to spread the news of salvation, which can change people's lives.

Picture a faraway, dark place where the sounds of sadness can be heard. In this landscape, a light starts to shine, a light that is held by those who are eager to walk through the rough terrain. With a word that can change people's lives on their feet, these messengers walk through valleys and climb mountains without giving up. Their feet are "beautiful" not because of how they look, but because of the powerful message of hope, forgiveness, and redemption they carry.

As messengers of holiness, we are at the top of our journey from confession to mission. How well we can tell others about the Gospel depends on how much we want to live holy lives. When our words and deeds reflect how our lives have changed, they feel more real. Paul writes in Romans 10:15, "And how can anyone teach if they are not sent? "As it says in the Bible, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'"

Transformational communication is when the way we talk becomes a way for change to happen. It's not just how well we speak that touches people's hearts, but also how much our lives have changed. The same way that saying Jesus is Lord is a proclamation, so is our word to the world, which is an invitation to experience the same change we have.

As messengers, our job isn't just to pass on information; it's also to invite people to be saved. When God changes us, our changed lives become living proof of God's grace and invite others to experience the same grace. By being holy in our words and deeds, we create an environment where the message of Christ can be heard clearly.

Putting it into practice

Putting what Romans 10:5–15 says into practice can have a huge effect on how we live out holiness. If holiness is not put into practice, they what is the point? Here are some ways to put the ideas Paul wrote about into practice:

Make it a habit to say, "Jesus is Lord," both in your prayers and in your everyday conversations. Know that this confession is a promise to follow His teachings and ideals in your life.

Make sure that what you say and do match what you say you believe. Let your transformed life be a sign that Christ has the power to change people.

 Look for chances to share the good news of saving on purpose. Look for opportunities to have deep talks about faith and encourage people who need it.

Show compassion, understanding, and kindness to the people you meet. Let your deeds show that you love Christ and have a good effect on the people around you.

Ask for direction through prayer on how to best share the Gospel. Ask for wisdom to know when and how to share the good news of saving.

Make real connections with the people around you. Your transformed life will naturally make them want to know where your joy and meaning come from.

Make places where people feel safe talking about spiritual things. Talk to people about your faith in a respectful way that lets you share your story and thoughts.

If someone says they are interested in accepting Christ, help them get started on their own faith journey by giving them advice and moral support. As a guide, you can make a big difference.

Let your life show how faith in Christ can change people's lives. People will be able to tell how real you are just by looking at you.

Invite friends, family, and other people you know to church meetings or events. You can expose them to the message of salvation in a non-threatening way by having them attend a worship service.

Remember that living out holiness in mission is a continuous process of growth and refinement. Each step you take towards aligning your life with the teachings of Romans 10:5-15 brings you closer to embodying the transformative message of salvation and being a beacon of hope to others.

We are vessels of holiness, molded by the hands of the Master Potter, and entrusted with a mission that is as diverse as it is divine. Our confession of Jesus as Lord initiates a journey that propels us into action—a mission that invites us to be carriers of hope, bearers of truth, and agents of transformation in a world that hungers for meaning and purpose.

Remember that you are not only a vessel of holiness but also a messenger of transformation. Your words carry weight, your actions leave impressions, and your life becomes a narrative that others read. As messengers of holiness, we are entrusted with the most beautiful message the world can ever receive—the message of God's love and grace.

Dear friends, the world around us desperately needs the authenticity of lives lived in pursuit of holiness. Let's commit ourselves to living out holiness daily—not for our own accolades, but for the glory of the One who transforms us. Let's embrace our mission with zeal, knowing that through our transformed lives, we can point others to the source of eternal hope.

As we step out into the world, may our lives be living testimonies of holiness in action. Let's be the embodiment of Christ's love, grace, and transformation. Let's live out holiness daily, and in doing so, make our mission a symphony of God's glory resonating in every corner of our lives.

Remember, living out holiness daily is not just a choice; it's a divine calling—a calling that beckons you to be a vessel of transformation, an ambassador of holiness, and a beacon of light. May you go forth from here, embracing your mission with open hearts and hands, and living out the holiness that reflects the very heart of God.

[1] Briscoe, D. S., & Ogilvie, L. J. (1982). Romans (Vol. 29, p. 196). Thomas Nelson Inc.