Whereas eschatological (end times) scepticism leads to immorality, eschatological expectation should result in holy conduct marked by devotion in duty to God.1 To be holy is to live in a way that is different from the world, to live as a citizen of heaven amongst pagans (see 1 Peter 2:12). The Greek word translated as godliness (see also 1 Timothy 2:2; 1 Timothy 4:7; 1 Timothy 6:3; 2 Timothy 3:5; Titus 1:1) concerns a proper response to the things of God. This response in turn results in obedience and growth in character. As he walked this earth, Jesus was the embodiment of godliness. His life was dedicated to the glory of the Father, and he always did what pleased him (John 8:29). As Christians then we pursue godliness when we follow the example of Jesus, pursuing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–26), seeking to glorify God with every action and decision we make (1 Corinthians 10:31).
11 Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness,