Children of Light and the Mandate of Holiness

Apostle Allison Smith Conliff explores the biblical teachings of 1st Thessalonians 5, focusing on the necessity of spiritual vigilance and moral integrity. The Apostle emphasizes that while Jesus Christ's second coming is an inevitable certainty that will surprise unbelievers like a "thief in the night," the faithful must remain children of light who are constantly prepared. Listeners are urged to maintain a life of ceaseless prayer, holy character, and unconditional love, even when facing personal challenges or betrayal. The message warns against "stealing chances" by living a double life, instead calling for believers to put on the spiritual armor of faith and salvation. Ultimately, the message serves as an exhortation to serve God with sincerity and diligence, ensuring that one's ministry is rooted in genuine relationship rather than outward performance.Key Points:The mandate to live a holy and consecrated life prepares believers for the second coming by ensuring they remain spiritually alert, maintain a deep connection with God, and possess the character required of the "bride" of Christ. This preparation involves the following key elements:Believers are described as "children of light" and "children of the day," meaning they are not in darkness and should not be overtaken by the day of the Lord as if it were a thief. Living a consecrated life requires staying on guard and sober, rather than "sleeping" like those who are unaware of the coming return. While the second coming will be unexpected for unbelievers, appearing like "a thief in the night", believers who are looking for Him will not be surprised because they have been forewarned and foretold.Consecration involves keeping a daily communion with God to stay "in tune" with heaven. The Apostle emphasizes the instruction to "pray without ceasing," which creates a constant consciousness of God and spiritual awareness even while performing daily tasks like work. This constant communication ensures that the "earth is touching heaven," keeping the believer spiritually prepared for the established date of the Lord's return.A holy life is essential because the "bride" (the church) must be "pure... without spot and blemish" and faithful when the bridegroom returns. This preparation goes beyond mere talent or "faking" one's way through faith; it requires:Deep Roots: A believer's roots must go deep into Christ so they are not uprooted by the "contrary winds" or "cares of this life".Character over Talent: While many have talent, the mandate is to marry talent with character and the anointing, which leads to true transformation.Integrity: Believers are warned against "stealing chances", living a double-minded life or continuing in sin while in the church. True consecration means making one's "calling and election sure" and serving the Lord with diligence.Living a consecrated life includes putting on spiritual armor to handle the challenges of life and spiritual warfare. This includes:The Breastplate of Faith and Love: Protecting the heart and maintaining active, rather than passive, faith.The Helmet of Salvation: Protecting the mind against attacks of depression, purposelessness, or the enemy's attempts to "blow your brains out" spiritually.By living this set-apart life, believers fulfill the desire of God and ensure they are ready to "face the music" and receive the victory when Christ returns.Rec. Date: 2nd July, 2023