Topical Encyclopedia
Holiness of GodThe holiness of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His absolute purity, moral perfection, and separation from sin. The Hebrew word for holy, "qadosh," signifies being set apart, distinct, and sacred. God's holiness is foundational to His nature and character, influencing His actions and interactions with humanity.
In the Old Testament, God's holiness is vividly portrayed in His encounters with individuals and nations. In
Isaiah 6:3, the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory." This threefold repetition emphasizes the superlative nature of God's holiness, underscoring its significance. God's holiness is also evident in His laws and commandments, which reflect His moral standards and call His people to be holy as He is holy (
Leviticus 19:2).
The holiness of God is further demonstrated in His judgment against sin. In
Habakkuk 1:13, it is declared, "Your eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and You cannot tolerate wrongdoing." God's holiness demands justice and righteousness, leading to His righteous indignation against sin and His provision of atonement through the sacrificial system in the Old Testament.
In the New Testament, the holiness of God is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ, who is described as "the Holy One of God" (
Mark 1:24). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus provides the means for humanity to be reconciled to a holy God. Believers are called to live holy lives, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as a reflection of God's holiness (
1 Peter 1:15-16).
Majesty of GodThe majesty of God refers to His sovereign power, authority, and grandeur. It encompasses His kingly rule over creation and His exalted position above all things. The majesty of God is a testament to His greatness and the awe-inspiring nature of His being.
Scripture frequently highlights God's majesty in creation and His sovereign rule.
Psalm 93:1 declares, "The LORD reigns, He is robed in majesty; the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength." This imagery conveys God's supreme authority and the splendor of His reign. The heavens and the earth testify to His majestic power, as seen in
Psalm 19:1: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands."
God's majesty is also evident in His acts of deliverance and salvation. In
Exodus 15:11, following the crossing of the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites sing, "Who among the gods is like You, O LORD? Who is like You—majestic in holiness, revered with praises, performing wonders?" This acknowledgment of God's majestic deeds underscores His unparalleled greatness and the reverence due to Him.
In the New Testament, the majesty of God is revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 1:3 describes Jesus as "the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word." Through Christ, the majesty of God is made manifest, and believers are invited to approach His throne with confidence (
Hebrews 4:16).
The holiness and majesty of God are inseparable attributes that inspire worship, reverence, and awe. They call believers to a life of holiness and submission to His sovereign will, recognizing His unparalleled greatness and the privilege of being in relationship with Him.