Jesus' call to holiness is a central theme in the teachings of the Christian faith. Holiness refers to the state of being pure and set apart from sin. In the Bible, Jesus teaches that all believers are called to be holy, just as God is holy (Leviticus 11:44-45, 1 Peter 1:15-16).
One of the most significant ways in which Jesus calls his followers to holiness is through the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount. In this famous sermon, Jesus presents a vision of righteousness that is far higher than the standard of the religious leaders of his day. He teaches that true righteousness is not just about avoiding outward acts of sin, but also about the inner state of one's heart. For example, Jesus teaches that anger is as much a sin as murder, and that lust is as much a sin as adultery. He also teaches that true righteousness involves living a life of love and compassion towards others.
Another way in which Jesus calls his followers to holiness is through his example of living a life of complete submission to the will of God. Jesus lived a life of complete obedience to God, even unto death on the cross. He teaches that his followers are also called to take up their cross and follow him (Matthew 16:24). This means that they are called to put aside their own desires and ambitions, and to fully submit to the will of God.
Jesus also teaches that holiness is not something that can be achieved through our own efforts. He teaches that we are all sinners in need of salvation, and that salvation can only come through faith in him (John 14:6). He also sends the Holy Spirit to indwell in believers, which empowers them to live a holy life (Acts 2:38).
In summary, Jesus' call to holiness is a central theme in the teachings of the Christian faith. He teaches that all believers are called to be holy, just as God is holy. He calls his followers to holiness through the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, by his example of living a life of complete submission to the will of God and by teaching that holiness is not something that can be achieved through our own efforts, but only through faith in him and being indwelled by the Holy Spirit.
It is important to note that Jesus' call to holiness is not just a list of rules to follow, but rather an invitation to enter into a deep and personal relationship with God, which will transform our hearts, minds, and lives. As we grow in holiness, we will become more and more like Jesus, and will experience the fullness of the life that God intended for us.
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