The term "The Holy People" is a designation used in the Bible to refer to those who are set apart by God for His purposes. This concept is deeply rooted in the narrative of the Israelites, God's chosen people, and extends into the New Testament with the Church, the body of believers in Jesus Christ.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Israelites are often referred to as a holy nation. This holiness is not due to their own merit but because of their covenant relationship with God. In Deuteronomy 7:6 , it is written, "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth." This verse underscores the idea that holiness is a status conferred by God, who chose Israel to be distinct from other nations.

The holiness of the Israelites was to be reflected in their obedience to God's laws and commandments. Leviticus 19:2 commands, "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 was both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring the Israelites to live in a manner that reflected God's character and standards.

Prophetic Literature

The prophets often spoke of a remnant of Israel that would remain faithful to God and be preserved as His holy people. Isaiah 62:12 proclaims, "And they will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD; and you will be called Sought Out, A City Not Forsaken." This prophetic vision points to a future restoration and redemption of God's people, emphasizing their identity as holy and set apart.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the concept of "The Holy People" is expanded to include all who are in Christ, both Jew and Gentile. The Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:9 , "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." Here, the Church is described using language that echoes the Old Testament descriptions of Israel, highlighting the continuity of God's plan for a holy people.

The holiness of believers is rooted in their union with Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus sanctifies and purifies His followers. Ephesians 5:25-27 states, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, 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."

Practical Implications

The call to be a holy people has practical implications for the lives of believers. It involves a commitment to live according to God's standards, to pursue righteousness, and to be distinct from the world. Romans 12:1-2 exhorts, "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. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Eschatological Hope

The concept of "The Holy People" also carries an eschatological dimension. In the book of Revelation, the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan for His holy people is depicted. Revelation 21:3 declares, "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This vision of the new heaven and new earth reveals the consummation of God's purpose for a holy people who will dwell with Him eternally.