Galatians 5:16
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Primary
What this passage establishes
Walking in the Spirit overcomes the ruling desires of the flesh.
Why it matters in the argument
Holiness is God’s character shaping a redeemed people. It includes the heart, body, desires, relationships, worship, and visible conduct.
Apostolic connection
Apostolic holiness is Spirit-empowered consecration, not a way to earn salvation or a list detached from love, justice, mercy, and inward purity.
Common misunderstanding
Rejecting legalism does not mean rejecting holiness. The New Testament repeatedly commands a transformed life because believers belong to God.
How to use it in conversation
Begin with God’s call, move to inward transformation and the body as God’s temple, then address concrete practice.