On obligation and ability

By what definition of "godly lives" is any amount of sin allowed? How many sins can we commit and still be holy, as God is holy? It seems to me that after just one sin we are no longer holy as God is holy. Does our inability to be holy as God is holy negate this command?

 

Something to think about - Paul told the Romans that we all died in Adam. In other words, God holds us all accountable for Adam's sin. That's going to drive some of the people on here nuts, but it's right there in the Bible.

Of course, all who are in Christ are made alive through His work on our behalf. How that works for people like your grandson and your niece is still a bit of a mystery, but God is merciful. The thing is, Paul makes it clear that if you didn't take part in Adam's sin then you can't take part in Christ's righteousness. But if by birth you do take part in Adam's sin then by second birth you may take part in Christ's righteousness. I don't have chapter and verse for you, but knowing of God's merciful nature I have to think that He works faith in people like your grandson and your niece, whether we can always see the results of that faith or not. The thing to remember is that salvation is His work, and keep asking yourself this question - is God trustworthy? If so, then keep trusting Him.

Hope that helps.

 

You're not dealing with this passage at all. Here it is:

"As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'"

Peter doesn't say "if you sin confess it". He doesn't say if you sin but then you believe then you will be made holy". He says that we are to actually be holy in all of our conduct. You doubt that I am actually holy in my conduct, and you are correct. Are you holy in all of your conduct? Do you know anyone who is?