Can Believers Do What the World Does? A Call to Separation and Holiness
Introduction:
In today’s world, the line between the church and the culture is becoming increasingly blurred. Many ask, “Why can’t I do what everyone else does?” But as believers who have been washed in the name of Jesus and filled with the Holy Ghost, we are held to a higher standard. We are not called to blend in—but to stand out. We are not called to live like the world—but to be set apart.
Jesus didn’t save us so we could continue in sin. He called us to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh. The Bible makes it clear that our lifestyle should reflect our transformation. This study will explore why believers can’t live like the world, what Scripture says about holiness and separation, and how we are to reflect Christ in everything we do.
1. Called to Be Set Apart
2 Corinthians 6:17 (NKJV): “Therefore ‘Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.’”
As Apostolic Pentecostal believers, we understand that God is holy, and He calls His people to be holy (1 Peter 1:16). We are in the world, but not of the world. We are to come out from ungodly influences and lifestyles that contradict the Word of God. This separation is not about isolation—it’s about distinction.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV) says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” Conformity to the world compromises our testimony. Transformation through the Spirit confirms our identity in Christ.
2. The Standard of Sobriety and Purity
The world may promote drinking, partying, smoking, and promiscuity, but the Word of God sets a higher standard for His people.
Ephesians 5:18 (NKJV): “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.”
1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV): “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
While the world glorifies being high or drunk, God commands sobriety. We are told to be alert, because spiritual warfare is real. The Holy Ghost doesn’t dwell in an unclean vessel polluted by intoxication or addiction.
When it comes to lust and sexual immorality, Jesus raised the bar even higher:
Matthew 5:28 (NKJV): “But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
Pornography, lust, and sexual sin are normalized in the world, but they are destructive to the soul. God calls His people to purity—not just in action, but in thought.
3. The Correction of a Loving Father
Hebrews 12:6 (NKJV): “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.”
When the world sins, they may seem to get away with it—but as children of God, we are corrected. Why? Because He loves us. His correction is a sign of relationship. He won’t let us drift off into sin without calling us back. His discipline is part of our sanctification.
Modern example: A young man in the world might party every weekend and face no consequences. But the moment a Spirit-filled believer compromises, conviction sets in. Things start falling apart. That’s not judgment—it’s grace. God is saying, “I’ve called you for more.”
4. Living a Life That Reflects Jesus
As Apostolic Pentecostals, we believe in holiness—inside and out. That includes our actions, appearance, conversations, and entertainment choices.
Modern examples:
The world may watch explicit shows or listen to music that glorifies sin, but we guard our eyes and ears (Psalm 101:3).
The world may dress to impress, but we dress to reflect modesty and godliness (1 Timothy 2:9–10).
The world may cuss, lie, and gossip—but we speak life and truth (Ephesians 4:29).
Holiness isn’t just legalism—it’s love. It’s about honoring God in everything.
In Closing:
Can believers do what the world does? According to the Word of God—no. We are chosen, holy, and dearly loved (Colossians 3:12). When Jesus filled us with the Holy Ghost, He gave us a new identity, a new purpose, and a new way of living. The world may enjoy sin for a season, but we are living for eternity.
So, let us rise and live like the called-out, blood-washed people of God. Let us be the salt and the light. Let us walk worthy of the calling we’ve received—holy, sober-minded, and set apart.
