Pursuing Holiness [FULL SERMON] | John Bevere |

About this Video

• Video Title: Pursuing Holiness [FULL SERMON] | John Bevere |
• Channel: John Bevere
• Speakers: John Bevere
• Duration: 00:53:27

Introduction

This sermon by John Bevere addresses the modern misunderstanding of "good" and its distinction from what is truly good according to God. Bevere emphasizes the importance of Scripture as the ultimate reference point for discerning good and evil, highlighting the deceptive nature of "good" that masks evil. He discusses the two aspects of holiness—positional and behavioral—and stresses the importance of God's empowering grace in pursuing behavioral holiness, enabling believers to live a life pleasing to God.

Key Takeaways

1. Defining "Good": The meaning of "good" is subjective and dependent on one's reference point. What might seem good to a person isn't necessarily aligned with God's standard of good. God's Word is the sole reliable reference point for determining true good.
2. The Deception of "Good": Evil can masquerade as good, leading even the elect astray. Discernment is crucial to avoid deception. The Bible warns against being deceived by appearances.
3. Two Aspects of Holiness: The sermon distinguishes between positional holiness (declared holy in Christ) and behavioral holiness (living a holy life empowered by God's grace). Both are essential, but behavioral holiness requires relying on God's grace, not one's own abilities.
4. God's Empowering Grace: True holiness is not achieved through self-effort or legalism but through God's grace, which provides the power to live a holy life. Understanding this empowering aspect of grace is crucial to avoid hypocrisy or antinomianism.
5. Intimacy with God: Pursuing holiness is not an end in itself but a pathway to intimacy with God. A lack of pursuit of holiness hinders intimacy with God.