Provoked to Grow in Holiness

Those who spend time with Jesus can’t get enough of him! Their hearts continually cry out to know the Master better, to draw closer to him, to grow in the knowledge of his ways.

Paul states, “God has dealt to each one a measure of faith” (Romans 12:3). The “measure” Paul speaks of means a limited amount; in other words, we’ve all received a certain amount of the saving knowledge of Christ.

Some believers are completely satisfied with their initial “measure.” It’s just enough to escape judgment, to feel forgiven, to keep a good reputation. Such people are in “maintenance mode” and they give Jesus the bare requirements: church attendance, a muttered daily prayer, perhaps a quick glance at Scripture. In short, they avoid getting too close to Jesus. They know that if they read much of his Word or spend time praying, the Holy Spirit will make demands on their lives.

Paul desired so much for every believer: “He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints … till we all … grow up in all things into Him who is the head — Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13, 15).

Paul was saying, in essence, “God has given these spiritual gifts so you may be filled up with Christ’s Spirit. This is crucial, because deceivers are coming to rob you of your faith. If you’re rooted in Christ and maturing in him, no deceptive doctrine will ever sway you. Yet the only way to grow to such maturity is by seeking more of Jesus.”

Many believers prefer a gospel that speaks only of grace, love and forgiveness — marvelous biblical truths, to be sure — but according to Paul, this is not the meat that a mature life requires. You will not grow to full stature in Christ if you refuse to hear a gospel that provokes you to seek the Lord and walk in his holiness.  

The more someone is with Jesus, the more that person becomes like him — in purity, holiness and love. In turn, his pure walk produces in him a great boldness for God.