The concept of living as saints is deeply rooted in the New Testament, where believers in Christ are frequently referred to as "saints." This term, derived from the Greek word "hagios," signifies those who are set apart, holy, and consecrated to God. The call to live as saints is a call to embody the holiness and righteousness that God imparts to His people through faith in Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses believers as saints in his epistles, emphasizing their identity in Christ. In Romans 1:7, Paul writes, "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" . This greeting underscores the dual nature of sainthood: it is both a divine calling and a present reality for those in Christ.

In 1 Corinthians 1:2, Paul further elaborates, "To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours" . Here, sainthood is linked to sanctification, the process by which believers are made holy through their union with Christ.

Characteristics of Saints

Living as saints involves a transformation of character and conduct. Ephesians 4:1-3 exhorts believers, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" . This passage highlights key virtues that characterize the life of a saint: humility, gentleness, patience, love, and unity.

Moreover, saints are called to a life of moral purity and separation from sin. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, believers are instructed, "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 reflects the nature of God Himself and serves as the standard for Christian living.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The ability to live as saints is not achieved through human effort alone but is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16-17 advises, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh" . The indwelling Spirit enables believers to overcome sinful desires and to produce the fruit of righteousness.

Community and Fellowship

Living as saints is also a communal endeavor. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of fellowship and mutual edification among believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching" . The community of saints is a source of strength, encouragement, and accountability.

Witness to the World

Finally, living as saints serves as a powerful witness to the world. Jesus taught in Matthew 5:14-16, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" . The holy conduct of believers is meant to reflect God's glory and draw others to Him.

In summary, living as saints is a comprehensive calling that encompasses personal holiness, reliance on the Holy Spirit, communal life, and a missional witness. It is the outworking of the believer's identity in Christ, marked by a life that seeks to honor God in all things.