Faith is not just something we have. Faith is something that is alive in us, growing and striving to obtain
holiness in Christ. For the local church, the principles set forth in 5:12-28 are more than just practical. They
are indispensable. God has called His people to love one another genuinely and to love Christ devotedly.
God’s desire for His church is to be more than a superficial gathering of people. His desire for the church is to
be a family of believers devoted to His Word, committed to one another and steadfast in holiness.