Redemptive Holiness: A Message from Jonathan Heppner of Hope Renews

In a special edition of Grace Church at Home, Pastor Scott introduced a heartfelt message from Jonathan Heppner, co-founder of Hope Renews. Jonathan’s message focused on the transformative power of holiness, challenging traditional assumptions and calling believers to embody God’s love in tangible, redemptive ways. Below is a reflection on his message, highlighting key insights on holiness, redemption, and how followers of Christ are called to engage with the world.

What Does Holiness Really Mean?

Jonathan opened by contrasting two seemingly opposing biblical ideas: the “beauty of holiness” (Psalm 29:2) and the description of the Messiah in Isaiah 53—where the Savior had “no beauty or majesty” to attract people. He used these contrasts to challenge the assumption that holiness is about perfection or sinlessness.

Instead, Jonathan proposed that holiness is more about Christlikeness than rule-following. Holiness is not about achieving perfection or separating oneself from others but embodying the love, kindness, and grace of Christ in all circumstances.

“What we’re striving for is not sinlessness but becoming like Jesus. In becoming like Him, we awaken to who we were made to be.”

Breaking Down Misconceptions About Holiness

Jonathan warned against two common mistakes:

Seeing holiness as sinlessness – This mindset fosters pride, creating a dangerous comparison culture. As Paul described in Philippians 3, he once lived blamelessly under the law but found true purpose and joy only in Christ.
Viewing holiness as separation from the world – Jonathan emphasized that God’s holiness draws Him toward our brokenness. Far from keeping His distance, Jesus embraced the marginalized, sinners, and the hurting.

“Jesus was not repelled by sin or darkness. He stepped into it with love and redemption.”

Holiness as an Act of Pursuit, Not Separation

Jonathan challenged the idea that holiness means isolating oneself from others. Instead, he explained that true holiness propels believers into the broken places of the world, motivated by love and the desire to bring healing. He urged listeners to reject fear-based Christianity—where faith is guarded by walls of separation—and instead live courageously among the people they are called to serve.

“Holiness presses in; it sacrifices for the sake of love. It is the energy that draws us toward the brokenness in the world—not away from it.”

A Redemptive Mission: Being Agents of Transformation

At the heart of Jonathan’s message was the idea that Christians are called to be agents of redemption, bringing love, joy, and healing into every circumstance. This mission reflects the heart of Jesus, who engaged with sinners and offered grace where others saw only condemnation. Jonathan emphasized that the power of Christ within believers is stronger than any darkness in the world (1 John 4:4).

“We are meant to live with the divine energy of God, propelling us into hidden corners of the world with gentleness, joy, and hope.”

Conclusion: Love as the Mark of Holiness

Jonathan’s message closed with a challenge: What if Christians became known primarily for their ability to love? He invited listeners to embrace a life of creative, sacrificial love, finding new ways to hold others close and let them know they are seen, valued, and loved.

“Redemption means looking at the broken things of the world and saying, ‘It’s okay, we will rebuild. We will walk with you, love you, and stand with you, no matter the cost.’”

Holiness in Practice: A Call to Action

Jonathan’s message is a powerful reminder that holiness is not about isolation but engagement. It challenges us to step beyond our comfort zones, embodying the love of Christ in real and meaningful ways. As followers of Jesus, we are called to enter into the brokenness of the world and proclaim hope through our actions, relationships, and presence.

Let this message inspire us to reflect: How can we live out redemptive holiness in our own lives? How can we engage with the world in ways that reflect the heart of Christ?

If you would like to learn more about Jonathan and Tracey’s work through Hope Renews or support their mission, connect with us at Grace Community Church or visit their website. Together, let’s continue to be the hands and feet of Christ—living out love and hope wherever we are.