The Call to Be Set Apart • Sunday Service

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Good morning, church. Today, we will delve into a crucial aspect of our Christian walk—the call to be set apart. This call is not just an invitation but a mandate for every believer. Being set apart means living a life that reflects God's holiness and love in a world that often opposes His ways. This can be challenging, but it is essential for our spiritual growth and witness.

1. Called to Be Holy

1 Peter 1:15-16 (NKJV) "but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy.'"

2. A Distinct People

Deuteronomy 14:2 (NKJV) "For you are a holy people to the Lord your God, and the Lord has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples who are on the face of the earth."

3. Transformed by Renewal

Romans 12:2 (NKJV) "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

4. Light in the Darkness

Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV) "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."

5. Living as Pilgrims

1 Peter 2:11-12 (NKJV) "Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation."

6. Walking in the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-17 (NKJV) "I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish."

7. Embracing Suffering for Christ

2 Timothy 3:12 (NKJV) "Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution."

8. Bearing the Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV) "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law."

Being set apart is not merely a command; it is our identity in Christ. It is challenging, often counter-cultural, and sometimes brings suffering. However, it also brings the joy of walking closely with God and witnessing His transformative power in our lives and the lives of others. Let us commit to living lives that honor God, shining as lights in this dark world, and drawing others to His marvelous light. Amen.