District Apostle Edy Isnugroho conducted a centralized divine service which is broadcasted through YouTube and audio on Sunday, June 14, 2020. He used the Bible text of 1 Peter 1: 15,16 to base his sermon, “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.”

“Holiness is a nature of God and His church.” Why is the church holy? Because the church brings us to salvation. In the church, the means for our salvation are provided. “God has called the people of Israel to holiness, and now He also calls us all to be holy,” said the District Apostle. This conduct of life should be useful in distinguishing God’s people from all other nations. However, it is not possible for us to attain holiness through the works of the law. Only through the sacrifice of Jesus can the holiness that God expects of His own be achieved. “He opens the way to holiness for mankind.”

In His prayer to His disciples, the Lord expressed that He Himself sanctified the Apostles, and those who believed in Jesus. Those who believe means having faith, not feeling better than others – being humble. “To be holy does not mean sinless, but we do not sin intentionally and ask for God’s mercy.” We want to always try to overcome evil. With faith we are baptized and sealed, thus we are placed on the path to holiness. God sanctifies us:

• in the divine service – the word makes us aware that we are not yet perfect
• through His great love – even though we are sinners, He forgives us through the forgiveness of sins

“Let us walk on the path that has been determined for us. If the Lord returns we will be sanctified, and experience our change,” the District Apostle concluded his service.

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