1 Peter 1:16
The sermon emphasizes the importance of living a holy life, as it is agreeable to the nature and will of God.
John Gill emphasizes the call to holiness as stated in 1 Peter 1:16, referencing Leviticus 11:44. He explains that this command resonates deeply with the Jewish audience, who value the Scriptures, and highlights that God's nature and perfection serve as a compelling reason for believers to pursue holiness. While complete holiness like God's is unattainable for humans, striving for it is essential for those who love and obey God. Gill encourages believers to reflect on God's holiness and to live in a manner that honors His will.
Text
Ver. 16. Because it is written,....
In Le 11:44
be ye holy, for I am holy: an argument the apostle knew must have weight with these persons, who were chiefly Jews, scattered abroad among the Gentiles, and had a value for the Scriptures of truth; and therefore, as the argument for holiness of life, from the nature and perfections of God, is strong, it must receive additional strength from this being the declared will of God, even their sanctification on this account; and though holiness, equal to God, is never to be attained to by a creature, yet so far as it is capable of it, it is desirable, because agreeable both to the nature and will of God, by all such who are truly his children, who love his name, adore his perfections, give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness, fear his goodness, and obey his will.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Holiness
- The Will of God
- The Attainability of Holiness
- The Limitations of Humanity
- The Desire to be Like God
Key Quotes
“be ye holy, for I am holy” — John Gill
Application Points
- We should strive to live a life that is holy and agreeable to God's nature and will.
- Obedience to God's will is essential for living a holy life.
- Fear and reverence for God's goodness should motivate us to live a holy life.