Dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV)

 

Many churches suffer from casual Christianity.

Casualness in this context does not imply being open, natural, or informal. Instead, it describes the lack of substance and superficiality of faith. According to studies, many churchgoers do not have a personal relationship with God or engage in meaningful interactions with others about God. This casualness comes from wanting a “convenient” faith that meets our needs and priorities, rather than a “convicting” faith that prioritises intimacy with God over a self-focused lifestyle.

One casualty of casual Christianity is a lack of holiness in our lives.

We have grown so causal in our relationship with God that we have forgotten the meaning and significance of the word "holiness." In short, holiness means walking in step with the Holy Spirit so that we can live a God-pleasing life (cf. Galatians 5:16-26).

Some believe that God no longer requires holiness. They would state that we are "under grace and not under law." A life filled with holiness, however, is about following the leading of the Spirit rather than the law. In this sense, holiness is a fruit, not a root, of salvation. If our life with God is not characterized by this understanding of holiness, the Christian life becomes one of perfectionism and spiritual performance.

We do not have to reinvent holiness; we just need to revive it.

Eagerly pursue holiness through a relationship of authentic love and intimacy in the grace of God. As we walk in the reality of the presence of God, His power produces holiness in us, maturing us to become more like Him.