I will explore how defining holiness through love instead of sexual abstinence changes the way Christians think about God, Jesus Christ, the Church, sin, human nature, and salvation.
Defining Holiness Through Love
There are many different ways to define what it means to be holy. One common definition is that a person is holy if they have chosen to follow God's commandments and live a life of purity according to biblical standards. This includes abstaining from sexual acts outside of marriage between one man and one woman.
Another way to look at holiness is through the lens of love. The Bible teaches that God is love, and everything He does is out of love. When we understand holiness as a reflection of God's love, it changes how we see ourselves and others.
Love as Holiness
When we think of holiness as a reflection of God's love, we can view it as an active choice to pursue relationships that build up others rather than tear them down. It involves selflessness, humility, and compassion for those around us. Rather than focusing on sexual abstinence, we focus on loving people well by serving them and putting their needs above our own desires. We seek to honor God in all areas of our lives, including our sexuality, but this doesn't mean avoiding sex altogether. It means making wise choices that respect both ourselves and others.
Implications for Christian Beliefs
Defining holiness through love instead of sexual abstinence has implications for many Christian beliefs, including:
1. Our understanding of sin - If sin is seen as a lack of love, then any act that causes harm or disrespect towards others can be considered sinful, not just sexual ones.
2. Our relationship with God - A holy person is someone who seeks to emulate God's character, which is defined by love.
3. Our identity - Holiness becomes more about our heart attitude than our actions.
4. Our community - Love-based holiness creates a sense of unity and acceptance within the church.
5. Our mission - Loving others becomes central to our faith, and we work to share God's love with everyone, regardless of background or behavior.
Redefining holiness through love rather than sexual abstinence changes how Christians view themselves and others. It places an emphasis on building up relationships and serving others rather than simply avoiding certain behaviors. While the Bible does teach that sexual immorality is wrong, it also encourages us to pursue holiness by loving others well. This approach to holiness leads to healthier relationships, stronger communities, and a deeper understanding of God's love.
What theological meanings emerge when holiness is defined through love rather than sexual abstinence?
The definition of holiness can be understood as a state of being set apart from sin and devoted to God's will. When holiness is understood in terms of love rather than sexual abstinence, it invites individuals to embody Christ's selfless sacrifice for others, which includes loving them even when they are not physically intimate with one another.