The Call to Holiness
Good afternoon, everyone! Gathering together as one body is always a joy as we worship our Savior and learn from His Word. Continuing our series in 1 Thessalonians, we’ve studied Paul’s encouragement and instructions to the early church. His words are relevant not only to the Thessalonians but also deeply meaningful for us today, especially as we face many of the same challenges in our world.
So far, we’ve discussed standing firm in faith, growing in love, and encouraging one another during trials. Today, we focus on another vital theme: the call to holiness. Paul speaks with a sense of urgency, reminding us that following Christ isn’t just about belief but about how we live out that belief every day, even when the world around us promotes standards that directly oppose biblical truth.
In our passage today, Paul specifically addresses the issue of sexual purity, calling us to honor God with our bodies. This isn’t always easy. We live in a culture that constantly pushes boundaries and encourages us to compromise. But as followers of Christ, we are called to something higher—a pursuit of holiness that shapes every part of our lives. And that’s what we’re going to unpack together today.
As we look at this passage, remember this phrase: “Holiness: A Daily Pursuit, A Lifelong Commitment.” Holiness is something we strive for in the big moments and the everyday choices we make as we commit to living in obedience to God’s standards.
Let’s open our hearts to God’s Word and allow Him to challenge, change, and call us to live holy lives that reflect His character.
Let’s bow our heads in prayer.
Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts, eager to hear from Your Word. We thank You for this time to gather as a church family, seek Your presence, and learn more about what it means to follow You wholeheartedly. As we open the Scriptures, we ask for the guidance of Your Holy Spirit.
Lord, teach us what it means to live in holiness and honor You in every part of our lives, including the most challenging areas. Help us to understand Your will for us and to pursue purity and obedience with hearts fully devoted to You.
Give us the strength to apply what we learn today, to grow in our walk with You, and to embrace the calling to live as Your holy people. May our lives reflect Your goodness and bring glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Paul’s Appeal to Live in Holiness
Let’s look at verses one and two. They read:
1 Thessalonians 4:1–2 ESV
Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more.
For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 4:1 ESV
Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more.
As we turn to Paul’s appeal for holiness, we notice he begins with a significant transitional phrase: “Finally, then, brothers.” This phrase marks not just the conclusion of his thoughts but a pivotal shift towards a new theme. Paul is not merely wrapping things up; he calls the Thessalonians to a more profound commitment to their faith.
In this appeal, Paul employs a loving yet urgent tone: “We ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus.” Here, we see Paul combining a request with a strong appeal. His motivation for their obedience is deeply rooted in their relationship with Christ. He does not command them as an authoritarian figure but instead encourages them as a caring brother in Christ. This familial language reinforces the bond they share as members of the body of Christ.
Next, Paul reminds them of what they have already received: “As you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God.” This phrase underscores the importance of discipleship through example. Paul, Silas, and Timothy had modeled a life that pleases God, demonstrating how vital it is for leaders to embody the teachings they impart. The Thessalonians are not left without guidance; they have a clear example of how to walk by God’s will.
When Paul emphasizes “walk and please God,” he highlights that our daily lives should be oriented towards one central goal: pleasing God. This is not about merely adhering to a set of rules or rituals but about living in a way that reflects our love for God and our desire to honor Him. Each step we take in our lives should be motivated by a heart that longs to please our Creator.
Furthermore, Paul urges them to “do so more and more.” This phrase captures the essence of continuous growth in holiness. The call to holiness is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. We are never finished growing in our faith; there is always room for deeper intimacy with God and greater alignment with His character.
In this exhortation, Paul recognizes and commends the Thessalonians for their current faithfulness: “Just as you are doing.” He acknowledges their efforts to live according to the teachings they have received. However, he doesn’t let their current success be a stopping point; instead, he challenges them to keep striving for more. Just as the Thessalonians have received the moral instructions from Paul, so too are we called to reflect on our own lives. Are we continuously seeking to please God? Are we growing in our walk with Him?
1 Thessalonians 4:2 ESV
For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
Paul concludes this section by reminding them, “For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.” This reminder reinforces the weight of their obligation to live according to the moral teachings imparted to them. It’s not merely a suggestion; it’s a command rooted in the authority of Christ. The teachings they received were not just wise counsel but the very directives from the Lord, highlighting the seriousness of their commitment to holiness.
As we think about Paul’s appeal today, we should consider how we can embody a life that pleases God in our actions and hearts. We should strive to walk in holiness, continually grow in our faith, and encourage one another to do the same.
The Call to Sexual Purity
Paul continues in verses three through five, and he writes:
1 Thessalonians 4:3–5 ESV
For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality;
that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor,
not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;
1 Thessalonians 4:3 ESV
For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality;
There’s no ambiguity here. God’s will is for His people to be holy. Paul begins this section with a powerful statement: “This is the will of God.” There is no room for debate or personal interpretation. God’s will is clearly revealed and focused on our sanctification. In today’s world, many people struggle with God’s will, often seeking specific guidance for life decisions—where to live, what job to take, etc. But here, Paul tells us that God’s overarching will is for our sanctification, which includes purity, especially in matters of sexual conduct. God is not silent about what pleases Him, and it’s essential to recognize that the call to purity is not a mere suggestion but central to living out His will.
Sanctification refers to the ongoing process of being made holy, becoming more and more like Christ daily. Paul focuses on this critical aspect of Christian life because the Thessalonians, like many in today’s culture, lived in a society saturated with sexual immorality. For believers, however, sexual purity is part of God’s sanctifying work in our lives. God doesn’t just save us to leave us where we are; He calls us to grow in holiness, especially in areas where we are most tempted to conform to the world. Our sanctification is a testimony to God’s transforming power and is meant to set us apart from the world’s standards, especially regarding sexual ethics.
Paul’s instruction to “abstain from sexual immorality” is as relevant today as it was for the Thessalonians. The Greek word for “sexual immorality” (porneia) encompasses any sexual activity outside of God’s design for marriage between a man and a woman. In a world that increasingly blurs the lines of sexual ethics, God’s command remains clear and unchanging. Sexual immorality includes premarital sex, adultery, pornography, and other forms of impurity. God calls His people to complete abstinence from these activities, not just moderation. It’s a direct contrast to the permissiveness of ancient and modern societies. Still, it’s part of what distinguishes us as His people.
1 Thessalonians 4:4 ESV
that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor,
The phrase “control his own body” in verse four presents a challenge and responsibility for every believer. Whether this refers to self-control regarding our physical bodies or even within the context of marriage, the emphasis is on exercising control over our desires in a way that honors God. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23), vital for holiness. Our sexual conduct must reflect our love for God and our respect for others. In a world that glorifies indulging passions, believers are called to honor their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This includes respecting the sanctity of marriage and abstaining from actions that defile ourselves and others.
1 Thessalonians 4:5 ESV
not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;
Paul draws a sharp distinction between believers and “the Gentiles who do not know God” in verse five. The Thessalonians were surrounded by a culture that normalized sexual indulgence, much like today. But as Christians, we are called to a higher standard. We are not to be driven by the “passion of lust,” which characterizes those who do not have a relationship with God. Our lives should reflect the difference that knowing Christ makes. The world may be enslaved to its desires, but we can live in holiness and honor. This is part of our witness to the world—that we belong to God and live by His standards, not the world’s.
In our current culture, sexual immorality is rampant, just as it was in ancient Thessalonica. God’s will for us remains the same: sanctification and holiness. As we grow in Christ, we are called to be distinct from the world, especially in how we manage our sexual desires. This call to purity is not outdated; it’s a critical part of our sanctification and witness to the world.
For the Christian, sexual purity is not just about saying “no” to immorality—it’s about saying “yes” to God’s best for our lives. It’s about honoring God with our bodies, relationships, and hearts. Whether single or married, we must seek to live in a way that pleases God, exercising self-control and walking in holiness.
In a world that glorifies instant gratification and moral relativism, we must remember that God’s will is clear. He has called us to be holy as He is holy, and that includes our sexuality. I pray that we honor Him in every area of our lives, trusting His way is always best.
Honoring God with Our Bodies
In this next section, a profound truth emerges: Honoring God with our bodies is a vital part of our Christian witness and communal life.
Verses 6-8 read:
1 Thessalonians 4:6–8 ESV
that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you.
For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness.
Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
1 Thessalonians 4:6 ESV
that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you.
Paul begins with a warning: “That no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter.” This declaration underscores the communal nature of sexual sin. It isn’t merely a private issue; it impacts relationships, families, and the church's integrity. When one engages in sexual immorality, it doesn’t only harm themselves—it also transgresses against their fellow believers, creating a ripple effect that can destroy trust and community.
In the context of Thessalonica, where sexual excesses were often tolerated, Paul’s words carried weight. The society around them may have disregarded sexual immorality, but within the church, such behavior was a direct affront to God and His commandments. Paul’s warning reveals that God is not indifferent to such actions; “The Lord is an avenger.” This phrase serves as a sobering reminder that God takes sexual sin seriously. There is a weight of judgment for those disregarding His commands in this area. It’s a call to consider not only our actions but also their consequences within the body of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 4:7 ESV
For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness.
Paul further clarifies our calling: “For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness.” This statement is crucial; it illustrates that our salvation isn’t merely a ticket to heaven but a transformative call to live in a manner that reflects God’s holiness. Our lives should actively pursue holiness in every area, including sexual conduct. We’re not simply to avoid sin; we are called to embody righteousness and purity.
1 Thessalonians 4:8 ESV
Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
To disregard this call is to ignore God Himself: “Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God.” This highlights the gravity of rejecting the moral standards laid out in Scripture. It is not merely a matter of personal choice or societal norms; it is a matter of divine authority. When we reject these teachings, we are, in essence, rejecting the authority of God, who gave us His Holy Spirit.
It’s vital to understand that the sexual ethics taught by Paul were not just rules for a well-functioning society; they were expressions of God’s will for His people. In a world where societal conventions often sway with the tide, we are reminded that God’s standards are eternal and unchanging. They reflect His character and His desire for our lives.
Paul’s warnings were not new to the Thessalonians. He had previously instructed them about the seriousness of these matters, reminding them of the consequences of sexual immorality. The teachings they received were not mere suggestions but solemn warnings grounded in the truth of God’s Word. They had been called to live a life worthy of their calling—a life marked by holiness and purity, reflecting the transformation from knowing Christ.
In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Are we honoring God with our bodies? Are we living in a way that reflects our calling to holiness? Sexual sin may seem appealing at the moment, but it carries consequences that can affect not just ourselves but our relationships with others and, ultimately, our relationship with God. We are called to a higher standard that requires us to pursue holiness and honor the Lord in every aspect of our lives.
So, as we navigate our lives in a world that often promotes a different standard, let us remember the call we have received: to pursue holiness, to honor God with our bodies, and to cherish the community of believers He has placed us in. In doing so, we fulfill our calling and bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel in a world that desperately needs it.
Pursuing Holiness
As we explore the essential theme of pursuing holiness, it’s important to remember that holiness isn’t something we can achieve through sheer willpower or human effort alone. Instead, it is a divine calling that requires us to partner with God and actively rely on the Holy Spirit for our transformation. Let’s look at some practical steps to cultivate holiness in our lives.
Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit
First and foremost, pursuing holiness begins with prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit. As we know, our sinful nature often leads us astray. Without the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can easily fall into the trap of self-reliance. In Galatians 5:16, Paul instructs us to “walk by the Spirit,” which implies a continuous reliance on Him to lead us away from the desires of the flesh.
Holiness is not achieved through our strength but is a gift of grace that flows from our relationship with God. As we seek to become more like Christ, we must pray earnestly, asking the Holy Spirit to sanctify us and transform our desires. Our prayers should reflect a sincere heart that recognizes our limitations and acknowledges our dependence on God’s power to change our lives.
Guarding Our Hearts and Minds
Next, we need to focus on guarding our hearts and minds. In Philippians 4:8, Paul provides a critical framework for what we should dwell upon:
Philippians 4:8 ESV
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
The media we consume and the entertainment we engage in can significantly influence our thoughts, feelings, and, ultimately, our actions.
To pursue holiness, we must proactively fill our minds with what is pure and holy. This means intentionally choosing media, literature, and conversations that uplift and align with God’s truth rather than those that diminish or distort it. We should ask ourselves: “Does this bring me closer to Christ or pull me away from Him?” By being vigilant in what we allow into our lives, we can protect our hearts and cultivate an environment conducive to spiritual growth.
Continual Growth in Holiness
Finally, we must understand that holiness is not a one-time decision but a daily pursuit. It requires a continual, conscious effort to surrender ourselves to God’s will and to grow in our faith. The journey of holiness is marked by ongoing growth and transformation, much like the process of sanctification itself.
In Romans 12:1-2, Paul urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by renewing our minds. This renewing process is ongoing; it’s about making daily choices that align with God’s desires for our lives. Holiness is a journey where we learn to submit our will to God and allow Him to mold us into the image of Christ. Each day presents an opportunity to seek more profound communion with God and greater alignment with His purposes.
As we take these practical steps toward holiness, remember that we are not alone. The Holy Spirit empowers, guides, and transforms us as we seek to grow in our faith. Let us commit to this journey together, encouraging one another to pursue holiness and trusting in God’s faithfulness to complete the work He has begun in us.
So What?
As we conclude today’s message, we must answer the question: “So what difference does this sermon make in my life?” The theme of “Holiness: A Daily Pursuit, A Lifelong Commitment” resonates deeply as we consider what it truly means to live as set-apart people in a world that often celebrates compromise.
Holiness is not merely an abstract concept or a lofty ideal; it is a vital calling that Paul emphasizes throughout his letters. He challenges us to live set apart in every area of our lives, particularly in our bodies and sexuality. This call to holiness is not about rigid rules but about reflecting the character of God in a way that honors Him and reveals His glory to the world. When we embrace holiness, we demonstrate to ourselves and those around us that we are distinct, chosen, and beloved children of God, striving to reflect His image in everything we do.
Moreover, we must remember that holiness isn’t just a personal matter—it’s a community project. We are called to support one another in this journey as a church. When one of us struggles, we all feel the impact. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate an environment where we can openly discuss our challenges, hold each other accountable, and encourage one another toward Christlikeness. Let us be a community that lifts each other up, providing grace and support as we strive for holiness.
As we move forward from this sermon, I want to challenge you to commit to walking in purity and honoring God with your bodies. Take some time to reflect on your life—are there areas where you need to make specific, practical changes? Perhaps it’s re-evaluating the media you consume, adjusting your social circles, or even reassessing your thought patterns. Whatever it may be, let’s be intentional about pursuing holiness in our daily lives.
Let’s commit today to encouraging one another in this lifelong pursuit of holiness, not just as individuals but as a church family. Together, let us strive to honor God in every aspect of our lives, recognizing that our efforts reflect our love for Him and our desire to live by His will.
Amen!
Let us pray.
The Call to Holiness
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today with grateful hearts, thanking You for the truth of Your Word and the challenge it presents to us as we pursue holiness. We acknowledge that Your standards are high, but we find comfort and strength in knowing that You empower us through Your Spirit to live according to Your will.
Lord, we pray for our congregation as a whole. May each of us grow in holiness and develop a deeper understanding of what it means to be set apart for You. Grant us the strength to resist the temptations of this world, which seek to draw us away from Your ways. Help us to be vigilant in our thoughts, words, and actions, reflecting Your character in every area of our lives.
We ask for the continual guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Fill us daily with Your presence, leading us to make choices that honor You. Help us to rely on You in moments of weakness, knowing that it is not by our own strength that we pursue holiness but by the transformative power of Your grace.
Thank You, Lord, for the hope and promise of living a life that glorifies You. May our commitment to holiness impact our lives, families, and community for Your glory.
May the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. As you go forth, may you pursue holiness in every aspect of your life, empowered by the Holy Spirit to walk in purity and truth.
May the love of Christ guide you, the strength of God uphold you, and the joy of the Holy Spirit fill you as you seek to honor Him in all you do. Go in peace, and may your lives reflect the light of His holiness to a world in need.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
