Holiness is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the nature of God and His expectations for His people. The concept of holiness is rooted in the Hebrew word "qadosh," meaning "set apart" or "sacred." In the New Testament, the Greek word "hagios" carries a similar meaning. Holiness is not merely an abstract attribute of God but a practical call to His followers to live in a manner that reflects His character.

God's Holiness

The holiness of God is foundational to understanding the importance of holiness in the life of a believer. 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 emphasizes the absolute purity and separateness of God from sin. God's holiness is also highlighted in Leviticus 11:44, where He commands, "For I am the LORD your God; consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, because I am holy."

Holiness in the Life of Believers

Believers are called to emulate God's holiness in their own lives. This call is not optional but a fundamental aspect of the Christian walk. 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.'" This passage underscores the expectation that believers live lives that are distinct from the world, reflecting God's purity and righteousness.

Sanctification

The process of becoming holy, known as sanctification, is a work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. It involves a continual transformation into the likeness of Christ. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Paul writes, "For it is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You should avoid sexual immorality." Sanctification is both a positional reality, as believers are declared holy through faith in Christ, and a progressive journey, as they grow in holiness through obedience and spiritual discipline.

Holiness and Worship

Holiness is intrinsically linked to worship. True worship requires a heart that is set apart for God. In John 4:24, Jesus states, "God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." Worship that is pleasing to God flows from a life that is consecrated and devoted to Him. The psalmist declares in Psalm 29:2, "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness."

Holiness and Community

The call to holiness extends beyond individual believers to the community of faith. The church is described as the "body of Christ" and is called to be holy and blameless. Ephesians 5:25-27 speaks of 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 glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless."

Holiness and Moral Conduct

Holiness is reflected in moral conduct and ethical living. Believers are called to live lives that are above reproach, demonstrating integrity and righteousness. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges, "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." This call to holiness encompasses every aspect of life, including thoughts, words, and actions.

Holiness and the World

The pursuit of holiness sets believers apart from the world. In 2 Corinthians 6:17, Paul exhorts, "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you." This separation is not about physical withdrawal but about living according to God's standards rather than the world's values.

Holiness and Eternal Life

Holiness is also linked to the promise of eternal life. Hebrews 12:14 states, "Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." This verse highlights the necessity of holiness as a prerequisite for entering into the presence of God. The pursuit of holiness is a lifelong journey that culminates in the believer's ultimate glorification in the presence of God.