357. Our Charge in “I Am”

1 Peter 1:13-21

Key verse:  “Just as He who called you is Holy, so be holy in all you do.”

1 Peter 1:15

Our reading for today stands as a good summary of all we have been through together in this past year. We have seen how God, who existed before the foundations of creation itself was laid, existed for all time.  He chose a people and became their Father. He called them to “Holiness,” or “set apartness,” but they either could not or would not do so.  He became guide, protector, shelter, refuge, strength and wisdom, but they couldn’t understand.  So, He became like them, taking on human form to set an example that they couldn’t deny.

Now, in Him, we have all we need, as His adopted, chosen children, if we respond to His call and obey Him.  Can we become Holy?  Can we become set apart?  Why would the command still be given if it couldn’t be achieved? Does God ask us to do the impossible without Him?

“Just as He who called you is Holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written:  “Be Holy, because I Am Holy.”  (1 Peter 1:15-16)  The command is the same as it was in Leviticus.  Then however, they only had a sketch to follow.  Moses had a personal relationship with God, but none of the other children of Israel, not even Aaron, Moses’ brother, who had been appointed the first high priest, enjoyed such a benefit.

Now, we see Jesus face to face thanks to the help of the Holy Spirit.  Now, we have at our side all of the “I Am,” living water, bread, light, shepherd, protector, truth, nourishment and life itself for our aid.  The eternal creator is beside us, within us, to guide us into His Holiness.

By His choosing we are set apart.  By His empowering, we are enabled to live a life that pleases Him.  “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.”  (1 Peter 1:18-19)  

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price.  Therefore honor God with your body.”  (1 Cor. 6:19-20) “Therefore, I urge you in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual act of worship.”  (Rom. 12:1)  Do you see how much God has invested in you? Would He have done so if He didn’t think that His plan for you could be accomplished?

You are an investment and God wants a return.  You are precious to Him and so are your friends and co-workers and family.  He paid for all, not just some!  He desires fruit, not just a branch.  The eternal creator is with you and within you.  Trust Him, obey Him and in so doing, do the impossible for Him through the guidance of His Holy Spirit.

Hymn:  “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”