The concept of personal holiness is a central theme in the Christian faith, emphasizing the believer's call to live a life set apart for God. This call is rooted in the nature of God Himself, who is described as holy, and it is a recurring theme throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

The call to holiness is first articulated in the Old Testament, where God commands His people to be holy as He is holy. In Leviticus 11:44-45 , God declares, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy." This command is repeated in Leviticus 19:2 and 20:7, underscoring the importance of holiness as a defining characteristic of God's people. The Israelites were to reflect God's holiness through obedience to His laws, which set them apart from the surrounding nations.

Holiness in the Old Testament is closely associated with the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The covenant established at Sinai included laws and rituals designed to maintain the purity and distinctiveness of the nation. The sacrificial system, dietary laws, and moral codes were all means by which the Israelites could pursue holiness and remain in right relationship with God.

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, the call to holiness is reaffirmed and expanded through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, calls His followers to a higher standard of righteousness, one that surpasses that of the Pharisees (Matthew 5:20). He emphasizes the internal transformation of the heart, rather than mere external compliance with the law.

The apostle Peter echoes the Old Testament call to holiness in 1 Peter 1:15-16 : "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 highlights the continuity of the call to holiness from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, urging believers to live lives that reflect the character of God.

The apostle Paul also addresses the call to holiness in his epistles. In 1 Thessalonians 4:7 , he writes, "For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness." Paul frequently exhorts believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, emphasizing moral purity, love, and the fruit of the Spirit as evidence of a holy life (Galatians 5:22-23).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The New Testament introduces the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to live holy lives. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit enables Christians to overcome sin and grow in sanctification. In Romans 8:13 , Paul states, "For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." The Spirit works within believers to transform their desires and actions, conforming them to the image of Christ.

Practical Aspects of Holiness

Personal holiness involves both the avoidance of sin and the pursuit of righteousness. Believers are called to "put off" the old self, characterized by sinful behaviors, and to "put on" the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24). This process requires intentional effort, including regular prayer, study of Scripture, and participation in the life of the church.

Holiness also encompasses ethical conduct in all areas of life, including relationships, work, and community involvement. Christians are called to be salt and light in the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel through their actions and attitudes (Matthew 5:13-16).

Conclusion

The call to personal holiness is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, rooted in the character of God and the teachings of Scripture. It is a call to be set apart, to live in a manner that reflects God's holiness, and to pursue a life of righteousness through the power of the Holy Spirit.