Is the Holiness Movement Dead?

[Truthseeker]

I think the major problem is how standards are presented and the false security it can bring.

I would say MOST holiness pentecostals don't know they are even saved.

[Aquila]

I think the Holiness movement is alive, it's just struggling to adjust to a new day. We're learning that holiness is an issue of the heart not the external. Dress codes and standards only bring Christian modesty at best and legalism at worse. Nothing about the outward standards makes one "holy". Those are my thoughts. God bless.

[mfblume]

Originally Posted by freeatlast

I'd have to know if holiness means to you what it means to most OP's STANDARDS ??

That is precisely a good point.

[TRFrance]

Originally Posted by edjen01

Wikipidia....really?? thats a reliable source??

not sure I want to get my facts about a subject from public opinion.

Don't just throw it out the window because "it's Wikipedia".

Most of the contributors to Wikipedia are very knowledgeable about the topics they post on.

In the case above, their description of the Holiness Movement seems to be pretty accurate. But if you think it's not, feel free to give us your insight.

[mfblume]

Wikipedia is a good source. Anything in error on it is quickly cast out of the text. They keep a good handle on it.

[pelathais]

LOL. The editor at that site has this note:

"This article is an edited version of two articles by Keith Drury, "The Holiness Movement Is Dead," and "Hope for the Holiness Movement") -editor, Dennis Bratcher"

So, the Holiness Movement is Dead - yet there is Hope for the Holiness Movement? Both articles simultaneously from the same writer. Keith is a popular writer among Wesleyans. I read a booklet of his about suffering, "Walking With Death" (?) which I though was very good.

"Movements" come and go. Since holiness is an intrinsic element of God's nature, I think holiness itself will be around for a very long time to come.

[pelathais]

Originally Posted by edjen01

Wikipidia....really?? thats a reliable source??

not sure I want to get my facts about a subject from public opinion.

Just to add my comment to the others about Wikipedia - in order to get your contributions to stand you have to build a consensus among other contributors and prove that your facts are correct. I have made contributions in articles on Military History and had to plead my case. Never lost a battle - but I did have to go back and dig up sources for corroboration to satisfy the many critics.

And every source of information could be labeled as "public opinion," even the Encyclopedia Britannica. And I'm sure that you have found plenty to criticize in the Britannica.

[The Lemon]

"Movements" come and go. Since holiness is an intrinsic element of God's nature, I think holiness itself will be around for a very long time to come.[/QUOTE]

Originally Posted by mfblume

What does God intend us to understand by the term holiness? It simply means BELONGING TO, and in this case, belonging to God. And the way we live should reflect that. I believe in modesty, but I think it got way out of whack when standards that are not found in the bible, or are the result of misreading what the Bible does say, started to high-jack what holiness is supposed to mean.

Both of you said almost exactely what I was thinking when I read the thread! Instead of looking for a "movement" we should be seeking a move of God! Both of these were awesome responses!

[Michael The Disciple]

Yes the Weslyan style Holiness Movement is dead. But the scriptural command to be perfect even as your Father in Heaven is alive and well. Its a challenge to every would be disciple.

We are at the point where most Christians dont believe you can consistently overcome Sin by the Holy Spirit power in them.

[RandyWayne]

As long as someone thinks that they can earn their way into heaven (which is only natural since it is easier for someone to wrap their heads around it as opposed to the concept of Grace), "holiness" as defined by clothesline preaching, will NEVER die.