Holiness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the nature and character of God and His expectations for His people. The term "holiness" signifies being set apart, pure, and dedicated to God. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for holiness is "qodesh," which conveys the idea of separation from the common or profane and dedication to the sacred. In the New Testament, the Greek word "hagios" is used, often translated as "holy" or "saint."

The holiness of God is foundational to understanding His nature. In Isaiah 6:3, the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory." This thrice-repeated declaration emphasizes the absolute purity and otherness of God. God's holiness is also evident in His moral perfection and righteousness, as seen in Leviticus 19:2, where He commands, "Speak to the whole congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’"

Holiness is not only an attribute of God but also a requirement for His people. The call to holiness is a call to live in a manner that reflects God's character. In the New Testament, 1 Peter 1:15-16 echoes the Old Testament command: "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.'" This call to holiness involves moral and ethical living, separation from sin, and dedication to God's purposes.

The process of becoming holy, known as sanctification, is a work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Romans 6:22 states, "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life." Holiness is both a positional reality, as believers are declared holy through faith in Christ, and a progressive journey, as they grow in Christlikeness.

Honor

Honor in the biblical context refers to the respect, esteem, and reverence given to individuals, positions, or God Himself. The concept of honor is deeply rooted in the cultural and social structures of the biblical world, where it was often associated with one's reputation, social standing, and adherence to community values.

The Bible places a strong emphasis on honoring God as the ultimate source of all honor. In 1 Samuel 2:30, God declares, "Those who honor Me I will honor, but those who despise Me will be disdained." Honoring God involves worship, obedience, and living in a way that reflects His glory. Proverbs 3:9 instructs, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest," highlighting the importance of prioritizing God in all aspects of life.

Honor is also directed towards individuals in various relationships and roles. The Ten Commandments include the directive to "Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). This command underscores the importance of respecting parental authority and the family structure.

In the New Testament, honor is extended to various social and ecclesiastical relationships. Romans 13:7 instructs believers to "Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due, custom to whom custom, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor." This includes honoring governing authorities, church leaders, and fellow believers. 1 Peter 2:17 further emphasizes, "Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king."

Honor is not only a duty but also a reflection of one's character and values. Proverbs 21:21 states, "He who pursues righteousness and loving devotion finds life, righteousness, and honor." In this sense, honor is both a pursuit and a reward for those who live according to God's principles.