Order in Creation and the Universe

The concept of divine order is foundational to the biblical narrative, beginning with the creation account in Genesis. God is depicted as a God of order, bringing structure out of chaos. Genesis 1:1-2 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." The subsequent verses describe how God systematically organizes creation over six days, culminating in a world that is "very good" (Genesis 1:31).

The orderliness of creation reflects God's nature and serves as a model for human conduct. The Psalmist declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (Psalm 19:1), indicating that the natural order is a testament to God's majesty and precision.

Order in Human Society

God's order extends to human society, where He establishes structures for governance, family, and worship. In the Old Testament, the Law given to Moses provides a framework for Israelite society, emphasizing justice, mercy, and holiness. Deuteronomy 6:1-2 instructs, "These are the commandments and statutes and ordinances that the LORD your God has instructed me to teach you to follow in the land that you are about to enter and possess, so that you and your children and grandchildren may fear the LORD your God all the days of your lives by keeping all His statutes and commandments that I give you, and so that your days may be prolonged."

The New Testament continues this theme, with the Apostle Paul urging believers to live orderly lives. In 1 Corinthians 14:40 , he writes, "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner," particularly in the context of worship and spiritual gifts.

Holiness as Separation and Purity

Holiness is a central attribute of God, signifying His absolute purity and separation from sin. The Hebrew word for holy, "qadosh," implies being set apart. Leviticus 19:2 commands, "Speak to the entire congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’" This call to holiness is a call to reflect God's character in every aspect of life.

The holiness of God is vividly portrayed in Isaiah's vision, where the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth" (Isaiah 6:3). This thrice-repeated declaration underscores the supreme holiness of God, setting Him apart from all creation.

Holiness in the Life of Believers

Believers are called to emulate God's holiness through their conduct. The Apostle Peter reiterates the call from Leviticus, writing, "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'" (1 Peter 1:15-16). This pursuit of holiness involves a transformation of character and a commitment to living according to God's standards.

The New Testament emphasizes that holiness is not merely external but involves the inner transformation of the heart. Romans 12:1-2 exhorts 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. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

The Relationship Between Order and Holiness

God's order and holiness are intrinsically linked, as His orderly creation reflects His holy nature. The divine order provides a framework within which holiness can be pursued. The Law, as an expression of God's order, guides believers in living holy lives. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 7:12 , affirms, "So then, the Law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good."

In the eschatological vision of Revelation, the ultimate fulfillment of God's order and holiness is depicted. Revelation 21:3-4 describes a new creation where God dwells with His people, and "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This vision encapsulates the perfect harmony of God's order and holiness, realized in the new heaven and new earth.