The concept of holiness is central to the Christian faith, representing a call to live a life set apart for God, characterized by moral purity and spiritual dedication. The call to holiness is rooted in the nature of God Himself, who is described as holy in Scripture. This call is both an invitation and a command for believers to reflect God's holiness in their lives.

Biblical Foundation

The call to holiness is grounded in the character of God. Leviticus 11:44-45 states, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy." This command is reiterated in the New Testament, where 1 Peter 1:15-16 echoes, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

Holiness in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, holiness is often associated with separation and consecration. The Israelites were called to be a holy nation, distinct from other peoples, as seen in Exodus 19:6 : "And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." The Law given to Moses provided guidelines for living a holy life, emphasizing purity in worship, conduct, and community life.

Holiness in the New Testament

The New Testament expands the understanding of holiness through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to holiness through their relationship with Christ, who embodies perfect holiness. Romans 12:1 urges believers, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the call to holiness in his epistles. In 1 Thessalonians 4:7 , he writes, "For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness." This call is not merely about external behavior but involves a transformation of the heart and mind, as seen in Ephesians 4:22-24 : "to put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Practical Implications

The call to holiness has practical implications for daily living. It involves a commitment to ethical behavior, love, and service. Holiness is reflected in the believer's conduct, speech, and relationships. Hebrews 12:14 exhorts, "Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord."

Holiness also involves a separation from sin and the influences of the world. James 1:27 describes pure religion as "to keep oneself unstained by the world." This separation is not isolation but a distinctiveness that influences the world positively.

Empowerment for Holiness

The pursuit of holiness is not achieved through human effort alone but is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 encourages believers to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Spirit works within believers to produce the fruit of holiness, transforming them into the likeness of Christ.

Conclusion

The call to holiness is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, rooted in the nature of God and the redemptive work of Christ. It is a call to live a life that reflects God's character, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and manifested in love, purity, and service.