The Holy Life

Lent is a time of preparation for Easter. In the early church, this season was used as catechesis for new Christians to be ready for baptism on Easter morning. It is marked with sacrifice, focused prayer, and scripture reading. Typically, people will give up something during Lent to mark more devotion to Christ as they approach the cross.

John Wesley emphasized the importance of both works of piety and works of mercy as essential to the holy life. Works of piety refer to spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, reading scripture, receiving the sacraments, and worship. These practices nurture an individual’s relationship with God. On the other hand, works of mercy involve acts of love and service to others, such as feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, caring for the poor, and seeking justice. Wesley believed that faith must be expressed through both devotion to God and compassionate action toward others.

By combining Lenten practices with Wesley’s teachings on works of piety and mercy, believers can cultivate a deeper faith and a more profound commitment to holiness, embodying Christ’s love in both worship and service.

Living a holy life is not just about external acts of righteousness but about having a heart fully devoted to God. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6 that true holiness is not for human approval but for God’s glory. Paul, in 2 Corinthians, urges us to be ambassadors of Christ, living as examples of God’s grace. This sermon will explore three essential aspects of the holy life.

1. The Holy Life is a Life of Sincere Devotion (Matthew 6:1-6)

Matthew 6:1 ESV

1 “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.

Jesus warns against performing acts of righteousness—giving, praying, and fasting—just for human approval.

True holiness is not about appearances but about a sincere heart before God.

Our devotion must be private before God before it can be public before others.

Application: Do we seek recognition, or do we seek intimacy with God? Let our prayers, fasting, and acts of kindness be done with a pure heart.

2. The Holy Life is a Life of Eternal Investment (Matthew 6:16-21)

Matthew 6:20 ESV

20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.

Jesus reminds us that worldly wealth and recognition are temporary.

A holy life seeks to store up treasures in heaven through acts of love, generosity, and faithfulness.

What we value most reveals the condition of our heart.

Application: Are we investing in temporary things or in eternal riches? Let us focus on what lasts forever—God’s kingdom and His righteousness.

3. The Holy Life is a Life of Sacrificial Service (2 Corinthians 5:20-6:10)

2 Corinthians 5:20 ESV

20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Paul describes the hardships and sacrifices of a life devoted to Christ.

Holiness is not just about personal purity but also about selfless service.

Even in suffering, Paul found joy, purpose, and strength in Christ.

Application: Are we willing to endure hardships for the sake of the Gospel? A holy life is a life poured out for others in love and mission

The holy life is a life of sincere devotion, eternal investment, and sacrificial service. Jesus calls us to live for God's approval, invest in heavenly treasures, and serve as His ambassadors. Let us seek holiness not as a religious duty but as a deep response to God’s love and grace.

Call to Action:

Examine your heart—Are you living for God’s approval or people’s praise?

Evaluate your priorities—Are you investing in things that last forever?

Embrace your mission—Are you living as Christ’s ambassador, even through trials?

May we pursue the holy life with sincere hearts, heavenly vision, and sacrificial love. Amen.