Introduction

The concept of holiness is central to the Christian faith, representing the moral and spiritual purity that is characteristic of God Himself. True holiness is not merely an external adherence to religious rituals or moral codes but is a profound transformation that originates from God. This entry explores the biblical understanding of holiness, emphasizing its divine source and its implications for believers.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently presents God as the ultimate standard of holiness. 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 rooted in the nature of God Himself, who is described as "holy, holy, holy" in Isaiah 6:3, underscoring His absolute purity and separateness from sin.

Holiness as a Divine Attribute

Holiness is an intrinsic attribute of God, reflecting His perfect righteousness and moral excellence. 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.'" This passage highlights the divine origin of holiness and the call for believers to emulate God's character.

The Role of Jesus Christ

The New Testament reveals that true holiness is made accessible to humanity through Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 1:4, Paul writes, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence." Through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection, believers are sanctified and set apart for God's purposes. Hebrews 10:10 affirms, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in imparting holiness to believers. In 2 Thessalonians 2:13, Paul states, "But we should always thank God for you, brothers who are loved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning to be saved by the sanctification of the Spirit and by faith in the truth." The Spirit works within believers to transform their hearts and minds, enabling them to live in accordance with God's will.

Holiness in the Life of Believers

True holiness manifests in the lives of believers as they grow in their relationship with God. Romans 12:1-2 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. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation is a continuous process, marked by a departure from sin and a pursuit of righteousness.

Practical Implications

The pursuit of holiness involves both divine enablement and human responsibility. Believers are called to actively participate in their sanctification by obeying God's commands and seeking His presence. In Philippians 2:12-13, Paul encourages, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue 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."

Conclusion

True holiness is a gift from God, rooted in His character and made possible through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit. As believers yield to God's transformative work, they reflect His holiness in their lives, fulfilling their calling to be set apart for His glory.