Topical Encyclopedia
HolinessHoliness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the nature of God and His expectations for His people. The term "holiness" signifies being set apart, pure, and dedicated to God. In the Old Testament, God is repeatedly described as holy, and His holiness is the standard for His people.
Leviticus 19:2 states, "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 ritualistic but encompasses moral and ethical purity.
The holiness of God is foundational to His character, as seen in
Isaiah 6:3 , where the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." God's holiness is both awe-inspiring and fearsome, demanding reverence and obedience from His people. The Israelites were given laws and commandments to guide them in living holy lives, distinct from the surrounding nations.
In the New Testament, holiness continues to be a vital aspect of Christian life. Believers are called to be holy through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.
1 Peter 1:15-16 exhorts, "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 call to holiness is not only a command but also a reflection of the transformative power of the Gospel in a believer's life.
ConductConduct, as it relates to holiness, involves the behavior and actions of individuals that align with God's standards. The Bible provides numerous instructions on how believers are to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of their calling.
Ephesians 4:1 urges, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received."
The conduct of believers is to be characterized by love, humility, and integrity.
Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are evidence of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit and are essential for maintaining holiness in conduct.
The New Testament also emphasizes the importance of moral purity and ethical behavior.
Romans 12:1-2 instructs 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 rejecting worldly values and embracing a lifestyle that reflects God's holiness.
Furthermore, the conduct of believers is to be a testimony to the world.
Matthew 5:16 encourages, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." The way Christians live their lives serves as a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and the holiness of God.
In summary, holiness and conduct are intricately linked in the Bible, with holiness being the divine standard and conduct being the practical outworking of that standard in the life of a believer. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christians are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness, demonstrating His love and righteousness to the world.
