Zac Poonen emphasizes that merely being associated with godly individuals or a reputable church does not guarantee one's own holiness or salvation. He warns against the Pharisaical attitude of relying on connections to claim righteousness, highlighting that true godliness must come from within and not from external affiliations. Poonen stresses the danger of unrepented sin and the false security it brings, urging believers to examine their hearts and lives rather than resting on the laurels of their church membership or associations. Ultimately, he calls for a personal relationship with God that transcends mere association with the righteous.

Andrew Murray emphasizes that true holiness is inseparable from humility, warning against the dangers of pride that can masquerade as holiness. He illustrates that the essence of holiness is reflected in the humility of Christ, and that genuine seekers of holiness must be vigilant against the subtle pride that can arise in their spiritual journey. Murray points out that the lack of humility is the chief mark of counterfeit holiness, and he urges believers to cultivate a spirit of lowliness and service towards others. He concludes that true humility before God is essential for authentic relationships with fellow believers, and that the presence of God in our lives leads to a selfless love that honors others. Ultimately, Murray calls for a deep reliance on Jesus to embody the humility that is the hallmark of true holiness.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the danger of being outwardly holy while lacking true inner holiness, comparing such individuals to Halifax nuts, which are all shell and no kernel. He warns that many present a glorious facade to the world but are abominable in God's sight, highlighting the hypocrisy of those who appear righteous externally but are filled with wickedness internally. Brooks draws parallels to the Scribes and Pharisees, who were outwardly religious yet inwardly corrupt, and cautions that God despises those who masquerade their sins with a guise of holiness. The sermon serves as a stark reminder that true holiness must come from within, lest one face severe consequences in the afterlife.

John Wesley preaches on 'The Circumcision of the Heart,' emphasizing that true circumcision is a spiritual transformation rather than mere outward rituals. He argues that genuine faith, humility, and love are essential for a heart that pleases God, contrasting the spiritual life with worldly values. Wesley warns that many may reject these truths as strange, yet they are fundamental to living a life wholly devoted to God. He encourages believers to seek God's approval rather than the world's, highlighting that true holiness involves a deep awareness of one's sinfulness and reliance on God's grace. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a heart that loves God above all else, aligning every thought and action with His glory.

John Wesley emphasizes the significance of having a 'single eye' focused solely on God, arguing that simplicity and purity in intention lead to a life filled with divine light. He warns that an evil eye, which seeks worldly pleasures and desires, results in spiritual darkness and ignorance of true holiness. Wesley challenges his listeners to prioritize their spiritual well-being over earthly gains, urging them to reflect on their choices in life, especially regarding relationships and vocations. He concludes with a call to repentance, encouraging believers to align their intentions with God's will to experience true happiness and fulfillment.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the stark contrast between the fervor displayed in pious duties and the coldness that often follows when individuals step away from these practices. He points out that many appear vibrant and spiritual while engaged in religious activities, yet become lifeless and worldly outside of them. This inconsistency suggests a lack of true holiness or only a minimal attainment of it. Brooks calls for a deeper, more genuine spirituality that transcends mere duty and reflects a true relationship with God.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the danger of self-deception in his sermon 'Wallowed in Sin Like Swine in the Mire,' warning that many people consider themselves pure while being deeply entrenched in sin. He cites Proverbs 30:12 to illustrate that those who are filthy in heart and actions often maintain a facade of holiness, believing in their own goodness despite their moral decay. Brooks argues that true holiness is essential for a genuine relationship with God, and that those who live in contradiction to their claims of righteousness will ultimately face shame. The sermon serves as a call to self-examination and repentance, urging believers to seek true purity rather than a false sense of righteousness.

Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of formalism in faith, emphasizing that many possess only a superficial appearance of godliness while lacking its true power and substance. He illustrates that formalists may appear devout through their words and actions, yet their hearts are devoid of genuine holiness, making them spiritually barren. Brooks compares them to a well-drawn picture that lacks life, highlighting that while the form of godliness is common, its true power is rare and transformative. He cautions that such individuals, despite their outward appearances, are ultimately unfruitful and face dire consequences if they do not seek true spiritual life.

Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of hypocrisy in the pursuit of holiness, using the Scribes and Pharisees as prime examples of those who outwardly appear righteous but are inwardly corrupt. He emphasizes that pretended holiness leads to greater damnation, as those who profess godliness without true piety are ultimately the most miserable. Brooks illustrates that artificial sanctity is a severe iniquity, and he urges listeners not to deceive themselves with a false sense of righteousness. He concludes with a stark reminder that Christ will eventually reveal the true nature of those who wear masks of holiness, leading to eternal shame.

Zac Poonen addresses the hypocrisy of the Pharisees who emphasized fasting and asceticism as a means to holiness, contrasting it with Jesus' approach, who fasted out of His holiness rather than to appear holy. He highlights that true spirituality is not about external disciplines but about internal control, particularly over one's speech and thoughts. Poonen points out that Jesus enjoyed life, demonstrated by His first miracle of turning water into wine, which challenged the legalistic mindset of the Pharisees. He warns against boasting about fasting or any spiritual discipline, emphasizing that such acts should be voluntary and not for show. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of holiness that transcends mere external practices.