The concept of distinguishing the holy from the common is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and maintaining the sanctity of what God has set apart. This distinction is foundational to understanding the nature of holiness and the call to live a life that honors God.

Old Testament Foundations

The distinction between the holy and the common is first introduced in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the Levitical laws. In Leviticus 10:10, God commands Aaron and his sons, "You must distinguish between the holy and the common, between the clean and the unclean." This directive underscores the priestly duty to discern and teach the Israelites about the sacredness of God's commandments and the proper way to approach Him.

The tabernacle and later the temple served as physical representations of this separation. The Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, was the most sacred space, accessible only to the high priest once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34). This separation illustrated the holiness of God and the need for purity when approaching Him.

The Role of the Priests

The priests were tasked with maintaining the distinction between the holy and the common. They were responsible for offering sacrifices, teaching the law, and ensuring that the Israelites adhered to God's standards. Ezekiel 44:23 reiterates this role: "They are to teach My people the difference between the holy and the common, and show them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean."

The failure to uphold this distinction had severe consequences, as seen in the case of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and were consumed by fire as a result (Leviticus 10:1-2). This incident highlights the seriousness with which God views the observance of His holiness.

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, the concept of holiness is expanded beyond ritual purity to encompass moral and ethical living. Believers are called to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16), reflecting His character in their conduct. The apostle Paul emphasizes this in 2 Corinthians 6:17-18, urging believers to "come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you."

Jesus Christ, through His sacrificial death and resurrection, fulfills the Old Testament requirements for holiness, making it possible for believers to be sanctified through faith in Him. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

Practical Implications for Believers

For Christians, distinguishing the holy from the common involves living a life set apart for God, characterized by obedience, purity, and devotion. Romans 12:1-2 exhorts believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds.

The church, as the body of Christ, is called to uphold this distinction by teaching sound doctrine, practicing church discipline, and living out the values of the Kingdom of God. The sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper serve as reminders of the believer's call to holiness and the grace provided through Christ.

In summary, distinguishing the holy from the common is a biblical mandate that underscores the nature of God and the call for His people to live in a manner that reflects His holiness. This principle, rooted in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament through Christ, remains a vital aspect of Christian faith and practice.