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The Spirit of the Lord is building a house for the glory of the Lord to occupy. Those who make up the material used in the construction of the house are called holy brethren. Participants of the eternal, heavenly calling. Heb. 3:1 The final goal of the Lord is that of having a holy temple. That which beautifies the temple or the house of the Lord is holiness. It is the most worthy adorning for those who comprise the house of the Lord. Ps. 93:5 “The beauty of holiness” assumed being and character when David appointed singers to precede the army of Israel with praise unto the Lord. Most assuredly, they won a victory that day. 2 Chron. 20:21.
The ultimate objective of the Lord is the perfect church. Those who say it cannot be, naturally, will not be motivated nor strive to fulfill the high calling of the Lord, in Christ Jesus. The declaration of the Word of the Lord is that He has called us to holiness and not to uncleanness. His desire is for a holy nation and He will have a people of holiness who populate it. 1 Thess. 4:7 The person who has been born of the Spirit will take on the character of that man who is a new creation in the Lord Jesus. He has become a work of righteousness and true holiness. Eph. 4:24 The new man in Christ is just that, he is new. The old carnal, worldly behavior will diminish as it is introduced to a brand new life in the Lord Jesus. 2 Cor. 5:17.
Paul urged the Roman Christians to apply the same zeal to seeking after the things of the new life in Christ as they did when they were without Christ. People will go long distances, expending finances, time and strength to search for and find the pleasures of this life. Serve the Lord with that same drive and determination as was exhibited in seeking after the fleeting pleasures of this world. Seek diligently after the righteousness and holiness which is to be found in Christ and the benefits will be heaped upon one who does so. Rom. 6:19.
The fulfillment of the promises of the Lord are Yea and Amen in Christ. However, there are divine requirements which must be met, particularly on the part of those who know the Word and will of the Lord. The promises of the Lord hinge on obedience to the Lord. Therefore, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of or in giving honor to the Lord. 2 Cor. 7:1 A statement such as we find here leaves us no doubt as to what the will of the Lord is. The total man is to be delivered from all that contaminates the beauty of the Lord as He desires to reveal it in His people.