1 Peter 1:15-16 ESV[15] but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, [16] since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
Understanding the holiness of God is central to our faith, as it defines His pure and perfect nature, setting Him apart from all creation. The Bible consistently emphasizes God’s holiness, which shapes His actions and His relationship with humanity. Here’s an exploration of how God’s holiness is a primary attribute, supported by both Old and New Testament scriptures.
1. God’s Holiness in His Nature
The Bible frequently emphasizes that God’s very essence is holy, which means He is completely separate from sin and utterly pure.
- Exodus 15:11: “Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, Fearful in praises, doing wonders?”
- 1 Samuel 2:2: “No one is holy like the Lord, For there is none besides You, Nor is there any rock like our God.”
These verses highlight the uniqueness and unparalleled holiness of God, underscoring His supreme purity and moral perfection.
2. God’s Holiness in His Dealings with Humanity
God’s interactions with humanity are marked by His holiness, which demands reverence and purity from those who approach Him.
- Isaiah 57:15: “For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.'”
- Habakkuk 1:13: “You are of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on wickedness.”
God’s holiness not only separates Him from sin but also calls for a response of humility and repentance from humanity.
3. God’s Holiness in His Dwelling Place
The places where God’s presence dwells are considered holy, emphasizing the sanctity of His presence.
- Exodus 3:5: “Then He said, ‘Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.'”
- Psalm 99:5: “Exalt the Lord our God, And worship at His footstool—He is holy.”
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
These scriptures show that God’s presence sanctifies places, making them holy and worthy of reverence.
4. God’s Call to Holiness for His People
God calls His people to be holy, reflecting His own holiness in their lives and actions.
- Leviticus 20:26: “And you shall be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy, and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be Mine.”
- 1 Peter 1:15-16: “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.'”
God’s command for His people to be holy underscores their calling to live distinct and pure lives, set apart for His purposes. Not only are we to be holy by becoming holy by recieving his holiness, but we are to behave holy. Holiness is imparted to us by His Holy Spirit indwelling believers.
5. God’s Ultimate Plan for Holiness
God’s ultimate plan involves the restoration of holiness throughout creation, culminating in a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells.
- Revelation 21:2-4: “Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.'”
- 2 Peter 3:13: “Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”
These passages highlight the culmination of God’s plan, where holiness and righteousness are fully restored in His creation.
God’s holiness is a primary attribute, evident in His nature, His dealings with humanity, His dwelling places, His call to His people, and His ultimate plan for creation. By understanding and embracing God’s holiness, we are called to reflect His pure and perfect nature in our daily lives, aligning ourselves with His will and purposes. B