Introduction

Holiness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's nature and His expectations for His people. The call to holiness is a call to be set apart, to live in a manner that reflects God's character and commands. This entry explores the biblical basis for holiness, its significance, and its implications for believers.

Biblical Basis for Holiness

The concept of holiness is rooted in the very nature of God. In Leviticus 19:2, God 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 is not merely an Old Testament concept but is reiterated in the New Testament. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, believers are exhorted, "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.'"

Holiness as Separation

Holiness involves separation from sin and dedication to God. In 2 Corinthians 6:17-18, Paul writes, "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. And I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." This separation is not isolation from the world but a distinctiveness in conduct and character that reflects God's righteousness.

Holiness and the Law

The Law given to Israel was a means to teach holiness. The various commandments and statutes were designed to set Israel apart as a holy nation. In Deuteronomy 7:6, it is stated, "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." The Law served as a guide to living a life pleasing to God, highlighting the need for purity and moral integrity.

Holiness and the New Covenant

With the coming of Christ, the call to holiness is deepened and expanded. Jesus' life and teachings exemplify perfect holiness, and through His sacrifice, believers are sanctified. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." The New Covenant provides the means for believers to pursue holiness through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to live according to God's will.

Holiness and the Church

The Church is called to be a holy community, reflecting God's holiness to the world. Ephesians 5:25-27 describes Christ's relationship with the Church, "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." The Church's mission includes upholding and promoting holiness among its members.

Practical Implications of Holiness

Holiness affects every aspect of a believer's life, including thoughts, actions, and relationships. Romans 12:1-2 urges believers, "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." This transformation involves a continual process of sanctification, where believers grow in holiness through obedience to God's Word and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

The Pursuit of Holiness

The pursuit of holiness is a lifelong journey. Philippians 2:12-13 encourages believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure." This pursuit requires diligence, discipline, and a heart fully devoted to God. Holiness is not achieved through human effort alone but through God's grace and power at work within the believer.

Conclusion

The need for holiness is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, reflecting God's nature and His desire for His people to be set apart for His purposes. Through the work of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to live lives that honor God and demonstrate His holiness to the world.