Having spoken of the unity that exists between the saints and the need to safeguard it an strengthen it, Paul now calls for separation from the sinful society in which they dwell.

I. SEPARATION IN LIFESTYLE FROM THE WORLD AROUND IS A NECESSITY FOR THE CHILD OF GOD.

1. This call came with the authority of Christ behind it. Paul calls Christ forward as a witness in support of what he is saying.

2. The call was for immediate obedience. Henceforth. It was not just something that must begin immediately but it must continue. It was henceforth and hereafter. How incongruous is walking in worldliness with a profession of faith in Christ!

3. Separation in lifestyle was all the more required given the contrast between the child of God and the unregenerate sinner. Having seen something of the mind of the child of God and given the nature of the mind of the sinner as Paul now displays it, how can there be anything other than separation? 4:1 (2:10), 17. Two walks of very differing character.