Designed and Directed by Holy Deportment Part 3: Pursuing the Character of God
“As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16
After reminding believers not to be shaped and developed by the desires of their former life, Peter now pivots and turns our attention to the positive side of spiritual transformation. Christianity is not limited to what we stopped doing. It is also about what we start becoming. Many believers place a lot of emphasis and effort focusing on what must be eliminated from their lives. While that is certainly essential, God's purpose extends beyond subtraction. He is interested in transformation. Observe Peter's words: “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation." Peter is not just advancing the avoidance of sin. He turns us toward a Person. Because the standard is not culture, tradition and the opinions of others. The standard is the character of God Himself.
The word 'holy' carries the idea of being set apart, distinct, and different. It speaks of belonging to God and reflecting His nature in a world that often opposes Him. This holiness should not be limited to church attendance or confined to public worship. Peter says it should characterize 'all manners of conversation.' The term conversation refers to one's entire manner of life. In other words, holy deportment is not something we put on for an hour on Sunday. It is to be evident in our homes, in our attitudes, speech, relationships, priorities, decisions as well as our responses when life becomes difficult. Anyone can appear spiritual when conditions are favorable. Therefore, the true testimony of holy deportment is revealed when pressure is applied. It is often in the moments of inconvenience, disappointment, misunderstanding, and adversity that our resemblance is most clearly displayed.
For this reason, spiritual maturity is measured by more than biblical knowledge. Knowledge is important. Doctrine is essential. But God's desire is that truth would move beyond our minds and become visible in our lives. After all, it is possible to know Scripture and still struggle to showcase its fruit. That is why the Holy Spirit is committed to developing Christlikeness within every believer. He is patiently teaching us to respond as Christ would respond.
Maybe one of the most encouraging realities of sanctification is that God has not left us to accomplish this work alone. Because the One who called us is also the One who conformed us, saved and sanctified us. Remember the One who began the work (Salvation) is committed to completing it. And with each surrender, each step of obedience, and each victory over self, His likeness becomes increasingly visible in our lives. God has not called us merely to act differently. He has called us to increasingly resemble him.
Not a sermon, just some thoughts
FtGG