Definition and Significance:
In the biblical context, "holy things" refer to objects, practices, or offerings that are set apart for the worship and service of God. The concept of holiness is central to the biblical narrative, emphasizing the distinctiveness and purity required in the worship of Yahweh. Holy things are consecrated and treated with reverence, reflecting God's own holiness and the call for His people to be holy.

Old Testament Context:
The Old Testament provides numerous examples of holy things, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle and the Temple. These include sacred objects such as the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, the lampstand, and the table of showbread. Exodus 30:25-29 describes the anointing oil used to consecrate these items, stating, "You are to consecrate them so that they will be most holy. Whatever touches them will be holy" .

The offerings and sacrifices presented to God are also considered holy. Leviticus 2:3 refers to the grain offering, stating, "The rest of the grain offering belongs to Aaron and his sons; it is a most holy part of the offerings made by fire to the LORD" . The priests, who were set apart to handle these holy things, had to adhere to strict purity laws to maintain their sanctity.

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, the concept of holy things extends to the Church and the sacraments. The Apostle Paul refers to the believers themselves as holy, emphasizing their role as a spiritual temple. In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple" .

The Lord's Supper, or Communion, is another example of a holy practice in the New Testament. The elements of bread and wine are treated with reverence as they symbolize the body and blood of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11:27, Paul warns, "Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord" .

Theological Implications:
The treatment of holy things underscores the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the call for His people to reflect that holiness in their lives. The reverence for holy things serves as a reminder of the sacredness of God's presence and the seriousness of worship. It also highlights the separation between the sacred and the profane, calling believers to live lives that honor God in all aspects.

Practical Application:
For contemporary believers, the concept of holy things encourages a life of reverence and dedication to God. It calls for a recognition of the sacredness of worship, the importance of purity, and the need to honor God in both personal and communal practices. The principle of holiness extends beyond physical objects to encompass attitudes, actions, and relationships, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling.