1 Peter 1:14-16 ESV: A Call to Holiness
As Obedient Children
1 Peter 1:14-16 ESV
"As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" (1 Peter 1:14-16 ESV)
In this passage, the apostle Peter emphasizes the importance of living a holy life as followers of Jesus Christ. Peter's exhortation is built upon the foundation of God's sovereign call in our lives, emphasizing the need for believers to be obedient children of God.
The Contrast Between Old and New
Peter contrasts the believers' former life of ignorance with their newfound understanding of God's holiness. The phrase "former ignorance" refers to the period before coming to faith in Jesus Christ, when they were driven by their sinful passions and desires. However, as believers, they have been called to a new life, one that is characterized by obedience to God's will.
The Call to Holiness
The central message of this passage is the call to holiness. Peter echoes the words of Leviticus 11:44-45, where God commands Israel to be holy because He is holy. This call to holiness is not limited to a select few, but applies to all believers. As God's people, we are called to reflect His character in our daily lives, demonstrating His holiness in all our conduct.
The Imperative of Obedience
The phrase "as obedient children" sets the tone for the entire passage. Obedience is not optional, but rather a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. Believers are called to imitate God's holiness, which requires a conscious effort to conform to His standards rather than the patterns of the world. This obedience is not based on feelings or emotions, but rather on the recognition of God's sovereignty and our new identity in Christ.
Conclusion
The passage highlights the importance of living a holy life as children of God. As believers, we are called to recognize our new identity in Christ and to reflect God's character in our daily lives. By embracing this call to holiness, we demonstrate our obedience to God and our desire to glorify Him in all aspects of our lives.
