Encouraging Others to Pursue Holiness.

I. Introduction

A. Opening quote: "Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord." (Hebrews 12:14, ESV)

B. Purpose: To inspire and equip the congregation to encourage others in their pursuit of holiness

C. Significance: Holiness is central to the Christian life, and we have a responsibility to help one another grow in it

II. The Call to Holiness

A. Scripture: "You shall be holy, for I am holy." (1 Peter 1:16, ESV)

B. Illustration: The refining process of gold, which requires heat and pressure to remove impurities

C. Comment: God desires us to reflect His holiness in our lives, which requires a process of transformation

III. The Importance of Encouragement

A. Scripture: "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works." (Hebrews 10:24, ESV)

B. Quote: "Encouragement is the oxygen of the soul." (George M. Adams)

C. Example: Barnabas, the "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36), who supported and encouraged Paul in his ministry

IV. Practical Ways to Encourage Others in Holiness

A. Praying for one another (James 5:16)

B. Sharing testimonies of God's work in our lives (Revelation 12:11)

C. Offering guidance and counsel (Proverbs 27:17)

D. Providing accountability (Galatians 6:1-2)

V. The Role of Community in Encouragement

A. Scripture: "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." (1 Thessalonians 5:11, ESV)

B. Illustration: A flock of geese flying in a V formation, supporting and lifting one another up for a more efficient flight

C. Comment: We need one another to grow in holiness; the Christian journey is not meant to be walked alone

VI. Encouraging Others through Personal Example

A. Scripture: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16, NKJV)

B. Quote: "Preach the Gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words." (attributed to St. Francis of Assisi)

C. Example: The impact of Mother Teresa's selfless life of service on countless lives around the world

VII. Conclusion

A. Call to action: Commit to being intentional in encouraging others to pursue holiness

B. Promise: As we encourage one another, we ourselves will grow in holiness (Proverbs 11:25)

C. Closing Scripture: "Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own Salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." (Philippians 2:12-13, ESV)