The terms "Holy" and "True" are significant attributes of God and are frequently used throughout the Bible to describe His nature and character. These attributes are foundational to understanding the divine nature and are often used in conjunction to emphasize God's purity, righteousness, and faithfulness.

Holy

The concept of holiness is central to the biblical understanding of God. The Hebrew word for holy, "qadosh," and the Greek word "hagios" both convey the idea of being set apart, sacred, and pure. Holiness is an essential attribute of God, signifying His absolute moral perfection and separation from sin. In Isaiah 6:3, the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This thrice-repeated declaration underscores the supreme holiness of God, setting Him apart from all creation.

God's holiness is also reflected in His commandments and laws, which call His people to be holy as He is holy. Leviticus 19:2 states, "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 reiterated in the New Testament, where believers are urged to live lives that reflect God's holy nature (1 Peter 1:15-16).

True

The attribute of truth is equally significant in the biblical portrayal of God. The Hebrew word "emet" and the Greek word "alēthinos" convey the idea of faithfulness, reliability, and reality. God is described as the ultimate source of truth, and His words and actions are always consistent with His nature. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This statement affirms that truth is not merely a concept but is personified in the person of Jesus Christ.

God's truthfulness is a guarantee of His promises and covenants. Numbers 23:19 affirms, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" This assurance of God's truthfulness provides a foundation for faith and trust in His word.

Holy and True in Revelation

The combination of "Holy" and "True" is notably used in the book of Revelation to describe Jesus Christ. In Revelation 3:7, the message to the church in Philadelphia begins, "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of the One who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What He opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open." Here, Jesus is depicted as the one who embodies both holiness and truth, possessing authority and sovereignty over all things.

In Revelation 6:10, the martyrs cry out, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You avenge our blood and judge those who dwell upon the earth?" This plea highlights the expectation that the Holy and True God will act justly and righteously in response to injustice and suffering.

Implications for Believers

The attributes of holiness and truth have profound implications for believers. As followers of Christ, Christians are called to reflect these attributes in their own lives. Ephesians 4:24 encourages believers to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This transformation is made possible through the work of the Holy Spirit, who sanctifies and guides believers into all truth (John 16:13).

In summary, the attributes of "Holy" and "True" are integral to the biblical understanding of God's nature. They reveal His moral perfection, faithfulness, and reliability, and they call believers to a life of holiness and truthfulness in imitation of their Creator.