Holiness refers to
the state of being set apart,
pure, and morally perfect.
It is the attribute of God
that most clearly distinguishes Him
from all creation.
To be holy means
to be separated from sin
and dedicated to what is right and pure.
Holiness is one of the most important themes in the Bible. God repeatedly declares, “Be holy, for I am holy.” Holiness is not merely an optional quality for believers — it is central to God’s nature and to the Christian life.
In the Old Testament, holiness was often associated with things being set apart for God’s use (such as the temple, the priests, and the Sabbath). In the New Testament, holiness takes on a deeper personal meaning as believers are called to live lives that reflect the character of God.
God is perfectly holy. He is completely separate from sin and evil. His holiness means that He is pure, righteous, and morally perfect in every way. Because God is holy, He cannot tolerate sin, and His wrath is aroused against all unrighteousness.
God’s holiness is the reason we need a Savior. It is also the reason the cross is so significant — only through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus could sinful people be brought into relationship with a holy God.
Believers are called to holiness because we belong to a holy God. This involves both:
Holiness is not achieved by our own effort alone. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in us as we cooperate with Him through obedience and faith.
Understanding holiness has important implications for the believer:
Holiness is not about following a list of rules. It is about becoming more like the holy God who saved us. As we grow in holiness, we reflect His character and bring glory to Him.