Holiness

Holiness is a fundamental attribute of God and a central theme throughout the Bible. It signifies purity, separation from sin, and dedication to God's service. The Hebrew word for holiness, "qodesh," and the Greek word "hagios" both convey the idea of being set apart or consecrated. Holiness is not merely an abstract concept but is deeply rooted in the character and actions of God.

In the Old Testament, God's holiness is vividly depicted in His interactions with Israel. In Leviticus 19:2, God commands, "Speak to the whole congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.'" This call to holiness is a reflection of God's own nature and serves as a standard for His people. The holiness of God is also evident in His moral perfection and His intolerance of sin, as seen in Isaiah 6:3, where the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth."

The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing that believers are called to live holy lives. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, it is written, "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 New Testament is closely associated with the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, who sanctifies believers and empowers them to live in accordance with God's will.

Holiness is not only a personal attribute but also a communal one. The Church, as the body of Christ, is called to be holy and blameless. Ephesians 5:25-27 describes Christ's love for the Church, "to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless."

Justice

Justice is another key attribute of God, reflecting His righteousness and fairness. The Bible portrays God as the ultimate judge who administers justice with perfect equity. The Hebrew word for justice, "mishpat," and the Greek word "dikaiosyne" encompass the ideas of righteousness, fairness, and the proper ordering of society.

In the Old Testament, God's justice is evident in His laws and commandments, which are designed to promote righteousness and protect the vulnerable. Deuteronomy 32:4 declares, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He." God's justice is also demonstrated in His dealings with nations and individuals, rewarding the righteous and punishing the wicked.

The prophets frequently called Israel to uphold justice, emphasizing that true worship of God involves ethical living and social responsibility. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

In the New Testament, justice is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus embodies God's justice and provides a means for humanity to be reconciled to God. Romans 3:25-26 explains, "God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus."

Believers are called to reflect God's justice in their lives, advocating for the oppressed and living righteously. James 1:27 highlights the practical outworking of justice: "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

Holiness and justice are intertwined in the biblical narrative, both emanating from the character of God and serving as guiding principles for His people.