To be holy means to be set apart for God, distinct from the world, and dedicated to His purposes. Holiness is not merely moral uprightness but separation unto the Lord in thought, conduct, and devotion.
God is the standard of holiness:
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” (Isaiah 6:3)
He commands His people to reflect His character:
“You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” (Leviticus 19:2)
This command is repeated in the New Testament:
“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.'” (1 Peter 1:15–16)
Holiness is not self-achieved. It begins with salvation through Christ, who sanctifies us:
“And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins…” (Ephesians 2:1)
“But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” (1 Corinthians 1:30)
Yet believers are also commanded to pursue holiness practically:
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)
“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1)
Holiness involves turning away from sin and conforming to the image of Christ. It affects every area of life:
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1)
Holiness is the will of God for every believer and the fruit of a life yielded to the Holy Spirit. It does not lead to pride but to worship and obedience. True holiness is visible in humility, love, purity, and reverence for God.
“He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.” (Colossians 1:13)
