HOLINESS IN THE CONTEMPORARY TIMES Foreword

Transcription

1 HOLINESS IN THE CONTEMPORARY TIMES Foreword There s a common saying that says: The only permanent thing in this world is change. This is definitely true; we are indeed living in a world where everything is changing. The times are actually altering the clothes we wear, the music we hear, the movies we watch, the mediums we use to communicate, the types of discussions we talk about and even the lifestyles that we live. The world is revolutionizing. It becomes more different day by day. On the other hand, changes are also happening in the spiritual realm. In fact, what s happening on earth nowadays is associated with what s happening in the world of the supernatural. Sins are multiplying. The morals are declining. These are inevitable for the Word of God itself prophesies that in the last days, perilous times shall come (2 Timothy 3:1). There s only one thing that we know that is not susceptible to change the Word of God. It is forever settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89). Heaven and earth shall pass away, but God s words shall never pass away (Matthew 24:35). Therefore, the principles and standards that are written therein are also irrevocable. The world might change its lifestyles and morals, however, we must understand that the holiness which God demands from us (1 Peter 1:16) should stand firm and undeterred. This fact brings us to this booklet to discuss some of the contemporary issues that seem to be a threat to our holiness. We understand that the Word of God is exhaustive about specific things which we are dealing today. Nevertheless, there are Biblical principles that are settled in heaven which can guide us on how to live amidst the various changes that surround us. We pray that God will convict your heart regarding these matters. - Raymart C. Lugue Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 1 of 26

2 PRINCIPLES OF HOLINESS Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14) A principle is a comprehensive, basic and fundamental truth that explains and determines, in the sense of our context, what is right and what is wrong. The principles which we will discuss are like a cornerstone the first stone that is laid as a foundation before any material is added on any works of establishment. It only means that every additional material which will be laid has a reference back to the cornerstone. The same is true with regards to the present day issues of holiness. As mentioned in our foreword, it is true that the Bible is exhaustive and we cannot find direct instructions from the Scriptures regarding contemporary issues. However, God has laid a cornerstone for us a set of basic principles which must guide our thoughts, speeches and actions on whatever time or era we are living in. Before we discuss some of these principles, let us first answer several significant questions. A. What is Holiness? Holiness is basically one of the characteristics or nature of God. Leviticus 11:45 says: For I am the LORD that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy. In reference to God, holiness is defined as absolute perfection and purity. On the other hand, in reference to persons and objects, holiness is defined as separated or set apart for God. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 2 of 26

3 In fact, the Hebrew word for holy means separation or consecration. Thus, the basic elements of holiness are (1) separation and (2) dedication. With these two elements come the need to sacrifice our desires and wills in order to become acceptable unto God (Romans 12:1-2). B. Is Holiness Essential to Salvation? This is a common issue not only for the unbelievers, but also, for the apostolic people. If we don t obey God s standards of holiness in all the aspects of our Christian life, does it mean that we will not be saved? Hebrews 12:14 clearly declares that holiness is essential to salvation. Let s put it this way: after our new birth experience, we already acquired the gift of salvation. However, keeping that salvation is another thing. Holiness is God s way for us to continuously walk as a saved men and women of God while we are still living on earth. After being born again, there s a battle between our flesh and our spirit (Galatians 5:17). We must overcome the flesh in order to be saved. On the other hand, we must be careful not to judge especially our new converts. Since holiness is a salvation issue and salvation is a personal duty, therefore, holiness is a personal thing and an individual problem. We must understand that holiness speaks so much of our personal relationship with God. Again, it is something that is personal an issue that is only between you and God. In conclusion, is holiness essential to salvation? The answer is YES. C. Why Do We Need to Become Holy? 1 Peter 1:15-16 says: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation (LIFESTYLE); Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. (emphasis, mine) Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 3 of 26

4 It is sin that separates man from God. When Adam and Eve sinned against God, there s an immediate action to send them away from the Garden of Eden which signifies the direct presence of God (Genesis 3:23-24). Because God is holy, He cannot have fellowship with sin. What Paul quoted in 1 Peter 1:16 only means that if we want to have fellowship with God, we must become holy (separated from sin). There s no middle ground; it s either we separate ourselves from sins in order to have fellowship with God or we separate ourselves from God in order to have fellowship with sins. D. Where Does Holiness Come From? Holiness is initially imparted by the Holy Ghost. Man can only be holy through divine assistance. 1 Peter 1:2 says: Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit We must understand that holiness does not initially come from the actions we take because our own righteousness is just like filthy rags in the sight of God (Isaiah 64:6). True holiness comes only through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in us because it is only through that way that we can have a fundamental basis of holiness resident in us (Jeremiah 31:33). Without the Holy Ghost, our good works are in vain or incomplete. E. Can Holiness be Legislated? Holiness must be motivated by the Holy Ghost within us. Ministers have spiritual authority (Hebrews 13:17). However, if holiness is not in the heart, a person will not obey. The Three Holiness Teachers 1. Holy Ghost John 14:26 says: But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 4 of 26

5 things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. The Holy Ghost might give us some personal convictions regarding holiness standards (which are, of course, not contrary to the Word of God). There are times that the Spirit motivates us to have personal consecrations for ourselves. These dealings might be because of personal weaknesses in some areas of our lives and therefore, we must submit to such convictions. We must be true to our convictions and not force or condemn anyone who does not follow the pattern of our personal consecrations. 2. Holy Ghost-filled Teachers and Pastors Ephesians 4:11-12 says: And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. God has given this five-fold ministry the authority to lead the people of God in holiness and in a closer relationship with God. Therefore, standards of holiness which are set by church pastors and leaders must be followed especially because they are for the spiritual benefit of the flock. 3. Bible II Timothy 3:16-17 says: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, 5horoughly furnished unto all good works. The Bible gives us basic guidelines and principles that apply to all people of all cultures, times and situations. Holiness is Maintained by the Love for God The first of all the commandments tells us that there is only one God and we have to love Him with all of our heart, our soul, our mind and Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 5 of 26

6 our strength (Mark 12:29-30). The word first means chief or foremost. This only means that the foremost thing that God requires from us is to know Him and to love Him. Love elicits an extraordinary energy that makes us do something beyond what we can normally do (1 Corinthians 13:7-8). This is why loving God is the first of all the commandments. If we first learn how to love Him, we will keep His commandments (John 14:23). If we love Him, the rest of the commandments in the Bible would be easier to obey. The same concept is true when it comes to holiness; holiness will not be a yoke upon us if we are motivated by our love for the Lord Jesus Christ. Basic Principles of Holiness 1. Be not conformed to this world And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2 2. Abstain from all appearance of evil Abstain from all appearance of evil. I Thessalonians 5:22 3. Be temperate in all things And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I Corinthians 9:25 Take note that we will always refer back to these fundamental principles in our discussions of holiness issues and standards. The question should not be What is the least that we can do and still please God? but rather What can we do to be as close as possible to God? (David K. Bernard) Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 6 of 26

7 Social Media Defined HOLINESS AND SOCIAL MEDIA Social is of or relating to human society, the interaction of the individual and the group, or the welfare of human beings as members of the society. Media means a medium of cultivation, conveyance or expression. Therefore, social media refers to the interaction among people in which they create, share, and/or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks (Ahlqvist, 2008). Social media has been around since humans began to talk. History says that some of the earliest forms of social media were primitive and did not involve a computer, but did involve some type of technology to convey the message ( But, what we are trying to discuss here is the social media that stems from Internet usage like Facebook, Twitter, Blogs and Instragram. The Need to Communicate and to Express Since the very beginning, it is evident in the Scriptures that God has been longing for fellowship and communication. He once created angels for He knew His power would be empty without somebody who can benefit from it. When some of these angels rebelled against Him, He then desired to create a man whom He can have fellowship with. When He saw Adam alone in the Garden of Eden after the creation week, He said: "It is not good for a man to be alone." Then He gave Eve to him. We are created in the image of God. Our Creator imparted in our hearts the same longing for communication. We are created as social beings, thus, we just cannot live alone. Our spirits give us a sense of hunger to express our thoughts, our feelings and our desires which can only be satisfied through communication. The Communication Theory cites four general objectives about why do we communicate at all ( Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 7 of 26

8 1. We communicate to persuade: It means that we want someone to do something and this desire of ours is communicated. The mother patting the child to stop crying, the advertiser displaying a model in a new T-Shirt and the politician haranguing (urging) his audience to vote for him are all having the same objective of persuading, while communicating it differently. 2. We communicate in order to give or provide information: The science teacher demonstrating an experiment, the bank announcing a reduction in interest rates and the finance minister, presenting the budget are all communicating to provide information. 3. We communicate seeking information: A passer by asking you the way to the post-office, the student asking the teacher for some clarification or the investigating policeman making discreet enquiries are all seeking information by using this communication skill. 4. We communicate to express our emotions like courage or fear, joy or sorrow, satisfaction or disappointment with appropriate gestures and words. Some people have unlimited skill to emote, (i.e., to display excessive emotion) to suit the occasion. Our politicians are capable of emoting well, which by itself is a communication skill. The Good Side of Social Media The good side of social media is that our need to communicate and to express ourselves is satisfied. With just a click on a mouse, we can already communicate ourselves to others. This is the reason why social networking sites and applications are in a great trend today. Social Media in the Philippines According to a study released by Universal McCann, 83 percent of surveyed Filipinos are members of a social network. Web trackers also say that with over 7.9 million Filipinos using the internet, 6.9 million of them visit a social networking site. These studies actually declared the Philippines as the Social Networking Capital of the World. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 8 of 26

9 The Evils of Social Media The use of social media perse is not a sin and is inevitable especially today. However, we must identify the evils that are present in the social media which might affect our holiness. Since socialization is a part of our daily lives, we must be careful to determine whether our holiness is maintained in this type of lifestyle. The following are some of the obvious evils which are present or could be present in the world of social media: 1. It can deprive us of our time with God. BI Intelligence calculates an Engagement Index for top major social networks in the U.S. and here are their findings: Social is now the top Internet activity: Americans spend an average of 37 minutes daily on social media, a higher time-spend than any other major Internet activity, including . Social-mobile rules: 60% or so of social media time is spent not on desktop computers but on smartphones and tablets. Facebook has a monster lead in engagement: Facebook is a terrific absorber of audiences' time and attention, 114 billion minutes a month in the U.S. alone, on desktop PCs and smartphones. By comparison, Instagram commands 8 billion minutes a month, and Twitter just 5.3 billion. Our Christian lives would be very dangerous if, early in the morning, the first thing that we do is to check our Facebook notifications instead of praying to God or reading some Scriptures. It would be very alarming if the last activity that we do before we sleep each night is to post our experiences throughout the day as tweets on Twitter instead of thanking God for His grace and mercy which we just experienced. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 9 of 26

10 Mark 12:29-30 teaches us that we should always prioritize and cultivate our relationship with God above everything else. Let s ask ourselves, are we spending enough quality time with God through prayers, Biblereading and worship, or are we letting the social media to rob our time that must be spent with God? 2. It can replace God as our refuge. Generally, the people are fond of expressing their emotions through social networking sites. Some are becoming addicted to expressing even their smallest irritations over social media. Most of these people seek relief by posting their feelings on the Internet which could be caused by two things: a. Social Networking Sites are outlets of emotions b. Social Networking Sites provide an environment where people can symphatize or cheer with what others are expressing through the said media In fact, a review and commentary written by Arianna Huffington says that the Social Media is stifling the Emotional Intelligence of its users. While it is okay to express things through the social media, we must be aware about the Lordship of Jesus Christ in our lives. It is alarming that some consider the social networking sites as their personal refuge. Let s ask ourselves: what is the first thing that we do whenever we encounter problems? Do we immediately share our feelings using the social media, or do we pray to ask God for relief and peace? What is the first thing that we do whenever a good thing happens to us? Do we post our bliss on the news feed, or do we thank God before anything else? Our answers to these questions might determine the degree of the Lordship of Jesus Christ in our lives. 3. It can be a place for gossiping and tale-bearing. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 10 of 26

11 While the social media is a world of words, we must become aware that words are powerful. Proverbs 18:21 says: Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Words are so powerful that it can build up a tower like Babel and destroy it likewise. Our tongue (words) has the greatest potential to cause harm to others. In fact, most of the Christians sins and weaknesses are caused by the tongue. Gossiping and tale-bearing are two of the most viscious sins of the tongue. Gossiping means telling of things of a personal, intimate or sensational nature. It includes spreading rumors which could damage someone. It is not just about lying, but also, telling of facts with a personal nature that the gossiper has no business revealing. It is evident that in the social networking sites, gossiping and talebearing are common. Let s look at what the Bible says about these things: Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. James 4:11b Speak not evil one of another, bretheren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law. Let s ask ourselves: are we using the social media to damage somebody through rumors or gossips? Let us take note that even indirect statements which we intentionally share on the internet can damage somebody and can, therefore, cause divisions and quarrels even amongst the body of Christ. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 11 of 26

12 4. Materials (words, photos and videos) that are shared can elicit pride, envy or lust. Pride is a very dangerous spirit. Proverbs 18:12 says that before destruction, the heart of a man is haughty. This haughtiness, which begins in the mind of an individual, is naturally expressed through words and actions. Sharing things or materials like words, photos and videos on social networking sites can be a way wherein pride could creep onto. So, before sharing things on the internet, we, Christians, must be careful about our intentions. We must also evaluate the things we share because we might have proper intentions, but for others, these things may seem haughty. We must do so not because we want to please them, but because we want to protect the name of Jesus Christ which we are bearing as the people of God. Envy can also be caused by the materials shared through social media. It can be in two forms: (1) the audience gets envy because of the materials posted on the internet and (2) the one who is posting on the sites causes envy to the audience. Both cases are in a spiritual danger. James 3:16 tells us that envy and strife are capable of producing any and every kind of evil. It consists of a grudging of possessions or accomplishments. They often include spite, covetousness, and suspicion. The Bible is clear that envying and jealousy will keep us out of heaven: Galatians 5:21 Envyings and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. James 4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 12 of 26

13 Lust is involved in two of our three weakest points as mentioned in 1 John 2:16. Its Greek word used in the New Testament describes it as a longing especially for what is forbidden. Materials that may stimulate the spirit of lust to the viewers are not only shared and posted on the pornographic sites, but also, on the social media like Facebook. These are inevitable to the extent that those materials just pop up on our screens through our news feeds though we don t even like it. David, knowing that his eyes are a gate to his soul, commanded himself and made a covenant with his eyes Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity (Psalm 119:37). (See lesson on Holiness in Eyes) Therefore, we must always guard our eyes and our spirits whenever we are using the Social Media. Tips on how to use the Social Media in a rightful way (some from Lori Deschene) 1. Know your intentions. Doug Firebaugh of SocialMediaBlogster.com has identified seven psychological needs we may be looking to meet when we log on: acknowledgment, attention, approval, appreciation, acclaim, assurance, and inclusion. Before you post, ask yourself: Am I looking to be seen or validated? Is there a wrong spirit or motivation that compels me to post something on the internet? Remember, if when there s nothing wrong about what we re posting, if our intentions are not right in the sight of God, we are still wrong. 2. If you propose to post something, always ask yourself: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? Sometimes we post thoughts without considering how they might impact our entire audience. It s easy to forget how many friends are reading. Two hundred people make a crowd in person, but online Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 13 of 26

14 that number can seem insignificant. Before you share, ask yourself: is there anyone this might harm? 3. Be active, not reactive. Many people set alarms for notifications whenever there are activities happening on their social media accounts. Throughout the day, there are a lot of things happening on the internet which require us to decide whether we ll either react to them or ignore them. Always remember to become not so reactive especially when negative issues are involved. 4. Respond with your full attention. People often share links without actually reading them, or comment on posts after only scanning them. If the greatest gift we can give someone is our attention, then social media allows us to be endlessly generous. We may not be able to reply to everyone, but responding thoughtfully when we can makes a difference. 5. Use mobile social media sparingly. In 2009, Pew Research found that 43 percent of cell phone users access the Web on their devices several times a day. It s what former Microsoft employee Linda Stone refers to as continuous partial attention when you frequently sign on to be sure you don t miss out anything. If you choose to limit your cell phone access, you may miss out online, but you won t miss what s in front of you. 6. Utilize the social media to share the Word of God. On the other side of the evil things present on the social media, we must also notice that it is a great harvest field. Imagine how many users can read your tweets, posts and blogs whenever you share them. So, why not use them to evangelize? We can always be a blessing to others even through the internet. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 14 of 26

15 HOLINESS IN EYES The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. (Matthew 6:22) A. The Eye: Gate of the Soul In Psalm 119:37, David commanded himself and made a covenant with his eyes Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity Here, vanity refers to anything that is worthless, foolish, empty and destitute of reality. Why does David set such a great emphasis on keeping his eye from seeing vain things? It is because our eyes are the gates of our soul. Our soul comprises our will, mind and consciousness. Our eyes can easily store information from the outside world into our memories (mind, which is a part of our soul) just for a short period of time. Also, our eyes are the principal organ of our bodies which can easily stimulate our emotions (also a part of our soul). Illustration: Think of the difference between seeing a horrible accident and by just merely hearing it. Psychologists say that 90% of our thought is stimulated by what we see. Experiments also prove that 65% of the stimulus we receive through the eyes and ears are stored in our long-term memory. If our eyes will be constantly filled with evil and vain sights, we will have no doubts that our hearts (soul) will also be filled with wicked things. Indeed, what a person sees has a powerful influence on his/her thoughts. B. It Defines our Identity Proverbs 23:7 says For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he This verse plainly says that the condition of our hearts, which emanated from the condition of our eyes, is the condition of the body as a whole. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 15 of 26

16 Jesus Christ also emphasized this truth in Matthew 6:22-23 and Luke 11:34 where He said The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! What the eyes indulges in and enjoy is what the body will indulge in and enjoy. It is difficult, if not impossible, to claim that our inner self hates what our eyes love. C. Lust of the Eyes In James 1:14-15, the Bible says: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Sins do not just go out from nowhere. A sin is likened to a baby which is first conceived, then delivered as it brings something into the real world. Temptations trigger conception of sins (it is the first step). Our sins are usually conceived on our minds for a long or short period of time. And when this conception of sin is constantly nurtured, there will be a powerful force that will drive us to sin. I John 2:16 affirms that our eyes are one of the three major areas of worldliness and temptation. Most of the sins are caused by temptations presented through the eyes. D. Biblical Related Stories 1. Eve (Genesis 3:6) tempted to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil because of her visit to the said forbidden tree 2. Achan (Joshua 7:21) tempted to covet Babylonian spoils when he saw the riches Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 16 of 26

17 3. David (II Samuel 11:2) from the roof, David saw Bathsheba which in turn drove him to lie with her 4. Jesus (Matthew 4:8) In the wilderness, Satan tempted Christ by letting Him see the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them E. Satan s Knowledge about Human Eyes Satan is an intelligent antagonist. He knows that the mind is most easily reached through the eye. For this reason, his main strategy is to: - Bring new suggestions to our minds through our eyes - Embed sights in our memory and tempt us when we are weak - Constantly expose our eyes to certain sights and associated ideas, making us accustomed to them F. Bible s Admonition Though it is inevitable to avoid seeing wickedness in our time, God wants us to discipline our eyes and minds. We should guard our eyes from temptations. G. Important Scriptures and Principles 1. Matthew 15:20 things that defile a man 2. Isaiah 33:15-16 shutteth his eyes from seeing evil 3. I Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil 4. Romans 1:32 have pleasure in them that do them H. Church Standards and Belief We cannot expect the Bible to directly mention prohibitions of modern day materials that violate the holiness of our eyes. It is obviously because, the Bible is written thousands of years ago, in those times, there were no televisions, computers, magazines and theaters. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 17 of 26

18 Despite of this reason, we cannot argue with the principles of God written in His Word which are forever established in heaven. From these principles, the church s ministers, who are next in teaching holiness, established strong stand against some areas of worldliness today. The church strongly discourages the saints to have, read or view: 1. Comic Books - Reasons: Have no informative or educational value, Some are unfit for children to read (extreme emphasis on violence are portrayed for some) 2. Books and Magazines - with Soap Opera type novels which go in detail about sex, love triangles, adultery - Book filled with vulgar words, witchcraft and occult - Magazines w/ pornographic details, intimate confessions and scandal 3. Televisions and Movies (at home or in theaters) - Reasons: >Many types of sin are portrayed on the screen >Not conducive to Christian living (because of its evil and it is a waste of time >Romans 1:32 teaches that people who take pleasure in watching others sin are just guilty as the doers >Danger on children 4. Pornographic Materials on the Internet - There are a lot of photos and videos that can be easily accessed with just a click on a mouse. We must refrain from these materials because it will impart a spirit of lust in us, enslave us and bring us to hell. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 18 of 26

19 Conclusions: 1. How can we love the things on televisions, movies and other printed materials and hate sin or evil? 2. It is difficult, if not impossible, to remain spiritual in a worldly environment 3. If we let our eyes behold things that are vain, we put our spirituality in danger 4. Pleasure while seeing evil displayed is a sin 5. To him that knows to do good, and does it not, to him it is a sin (James 4:17) Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 19 of 26

20 HOLINESS AND FASHION The Word of God was written thousands of years ago. The apparel and adornment of today might not be the same with what is of yesterday; however, God s principles are still for our time. Modesty (I Timothy 2:9) Definition: to be decent or chaste especially in outward dress and deportment Chasteness is a very important lifestyle for Christians. 1 Peter 3:2 says that by the chaste conversation of the wives, they can win their unsaved husbands even without a word. The necessity of modesty goes back to the sin of Adam and Eve. Originally, they were created and clothed with the shekinah glory of God (Psalm 8:5). But, when they sinned, they loosed the glory, and so, God Himself clothed them in a clothing which He designed instead of the clothing they made (Genesis 3:21). Since then, God wanted people to be in modest apparel. Also, immodest apparel indicates the presence of a lustful spirit. Luke 8:27 says: And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs. But, when this man from Gadara was delivered, verse 25 says: Then they went out to see what was done; and came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. Immodesty is a strong temptation and enticement especially for men who are more visually oriented. Example: David (II Samuel 11:2) Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 20 of 26

21 What does modest apparel mean? - To be clothed in such a way as not to indecently expose the body to the opposite sex - Things to consider: sleeves, necklines, dress lengths, tight clothes and thin clothes Vanity (I Timothy 2:9, 1 Peter 3:3-4) Shamefacedness means reverence, self-restraint, modesty and bashfulness. Sobriety means discretion, temperance and self-control. With these definitions, Paul means that styles that are primarily designed to feed the ego are not in God s will. Moderation in Cost Philippians 4:5 says: Let your moderation be known unto all men. This is one of the primary reasons why we are not to adorn ourselves with gold, pearls and costly array. Ask yourself; does it present a good stewardship of money? Will it arouse envy? Distinction Between Sexes Distinction between sexes is a very important concept for God. Distinction is not only biological, but also, mental and emotional differences. God established social methods to maintain this distinction, namely: (1) dress and (2) hair length. Notice in Deuteronomy 22:5, to wear things that pertain to the opposite sex is an abomination to God, and, no abomination shall inherit the Kingdom of God (Revelation 21:8, 27). To question if God abolished this law from the Old Testament is not right. What is abomination unto God remains an abomination unto God. Notice that some part of the law which was abolished in the New Testament is only abomination or unclean for men, however, the things Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 21 of 26

22 that are abomination for God never changed. God s basic characters change not (Malachi 3:6). Distinction between sexes is evident in the New Testament. Examples: 1 Corinthians 11 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 Sex Distinction in Dress When we apply this principle in the modern society, we see that men should not wear dresses, skirts and blouses and women should not wear pants. Pants pertain to men. Pertain means to belong to as a part, feature or function. Historically, it was considered wrong for women to wear pants until World War II. During this world war, women took place in the factory works as men went to war. Separation from the World Romans 12:2 says: And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. To be separate includes outward manifestations of separation so that the world can readily identify the true Christians. This concept of separation made the Jews as the only ancient race to maintain their complete cultural and religious heritage. This is because they followed the standards of the Word of God. Similarly, Christians, as a chosen people of God, must have points of separation both internal and external. Holiness standards in the Scripture primarily serve to maintain the separation of Christians from the world. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 22 of 26

23 Fashion According to the definition given by the Merriam-Webster s Dictionary, the word fashion means (1) a popular way of dressing during a particular time or among a particular group of people or (2) clothes that are popular. The essence of the definition itself indicates that fashion is strongly associated with worldliness. This is a common setback for Pentecostals and other people who seek to observe the holiness standards of the Bible because God demands separation from the world. Since the trends have so much power to dictate what beauty is all about in the eyes of the world, and since there is a fleshly need for the people to look good (self-consciouness), therefore, people are easily conforming to the world. An intriguing question which confronts us today is that whether the act of conforming to fashion trends is a sin or not. The answer to this is dependent on the following factors: 1. Whether the dresses are against the basic standards of the Bible or not 2. Whether or not the dresses (or the type of dressing) are saying or indicating things, values or messages such as rebellion and movements. 3. Whether or not the dresses are wore with proper intentions and in a right spirit. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 23 of 26

24 References: Bernard, David K. (1981) In Search of Holiness. Hazelwood, MO: World Aflame Press Bernard, David K. (1985) Practical Holiness: A Second Look. Hazelwood, MO: World Aflame Press Woodward, Raymond (2000) Because We are His. Fredericton, New Brunswick: Ahlqvist, Toni; Bäck, A., Halonen, M., Heinonen, S (2008). "Social media road maps exploring the futures triggered by social media". VTT Tiedotteita Valtion Teknillinen Tutkimuskeskus(2454): 13. Retrieved March 5, Adler, Emily (2014) Social Media Engagement: The Surprising Facts About How Much Time People Spend On The Major Social Networks Retrieved from: 12#ixzz2v8yQsKXG Deschene, Lori (2011) Ten Mindful Ways to Use Social Media. Retrieved from: Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 24 of 26

25 OTHER AVAILABLE MATERIALS OMSIFY TEAM This is a compilation of program guides and manuals which discusses different evangelistic programs such as Discipleship (Apostolic Twelve Ministry), OMSIFY Crusades, OMSIFY Children s Church and Church Planting. A-12 Ministry Modules These are booklets which are ideally used in the conduction of discipleship program(s). There are three modules available: (1) Convert Level, (2) Worker Level and (3) Leader Level. Each module is consisting of twenty four concised lessons. Munaklat ng mga Pangunahing Doktrina This is a booklet consiting of lists of verses categorized according to each basic doctrine of the Bible such as Oneness of God, New Birth, Christian Living and others. This material is usually used during Mass Indoctrinations. Ang Siguradong Pundasyon This is a 3-lesson series compiled in a booklet which discusses the basic doctrines about Christian Living. This material is usually used during Welcome Services of the local church where new converts are gathered for their orientation. Compilation of Lesson Plans and Lesson Materials The church s compilations of lesson series with lesson plans, lesson guides and various activities are also available. These materials are intended for Sunday School, Children s Church and Teens Service. ***For inquiries, please contact us through the given contact details on the cover. Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 25 of 26

26 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS Republic Act No. 8293, also known as Philippine Copyright Law protects all forms of intellectual properties such as books, booklets, pamphlets, public speaking works (lectures, speeches and sermons) and others. Under the Philippine Copyright Law, even unpublished works qualify as fair use. The government expressly gives copyright ownership to the copyright holder automatically for works fit in the categories of intellectual properties. In accordance to such law, and in respect to the author of this material, please do not photocopy any part of this booklet. If you wish to do so for reasonable causes, please reserve permission from the author through the contact details given on the cover. Violation to copyrights is a form of stealing. Thou shalt not steal. (Exodus 20:15) Thank you very much. God bless you in Jesus name! - The United Pentecostal Church of Tondo Holiness in the Contemporary Times Page 26 of 26