The Incentive of Holiness
2 Corinthians 7:1
Why pursue holiness? For many, the word sounds burdensome — a list of rules to follow, or a standard impossible to reach. But Paul frames it differently: holiness is a response to God’s promises.
“Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God” (2 Cor. 7:1).
What promises? That God will dwell with us, walk among us, be our God, and be our Father (6:16–18). Holiness is not motivated by fear of rejection, but by joy in belonging.
Notice three truths:
Motivation. We pursue holiness because we are loved children of God.
Method. “Cleanse ourselves” means active repentance. Like washing hands before a meal, we confess sin and turn from it.
Maturity. Holiness is progressive — “bringing to completion.” Day by day the Spirit shapes us more like Christ.
A bride preparing for her wedding doesn’t view it as drudgery. She delights to be ready for her groom and the marriage together. So too we prepare ourselves for Christ, our Bridegroom.
Application: Young believers, don’t see holiness as boring — it is joy in Christ. Parents, model repentance so your children see growth. Seniors, never stop pursuing holiness; until glory, there is always more of Christ to know.
Holiness is not a burden, but a blessing. It is life lived in the promises of God.