How does Ezekiel 36:17 connect with the call to holiness in 1 Peter 1:16? The Texts at a Glance “Son of man, when the house of Israel lived in their own land, they defiled it by their own ways and deeds. Their conduct before Me was like a woman’s impurity.” (Ezekiel 36:17) “For it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” (1 Peter 1:16) What Ezekiel Shows Us about Unholiness • Israel’s sin was open and habitual—“their own ways and deeds.” • The defilement was so severe that God likened it to the ceremonial uncleanness of menstruation, a vivid image of separation from worship (Leviticus 15:19–24). • Because holiness and uncleanness cannot coexist, exile followed (Ezekiel 36:18–19). • God’s reputation among the nations was at stake; their sin “profaned My holy name” (Ezekiel 36:20). How Peter Echoes the Same Divine Standard • Peter quotes Leviticus 11:44–45, affirming that the call to holiness spans covenants. • Holiness is rooted in God’s own character—He is inherently holy, therefore His people must reflect Him (1 Peter 1:15). • The command is personal and present: “Be holy” is a continuing imperative for every believer, not merely a past ideal. Bridging the Two Passages • Same God, same standard: The Holy One of Israel (Ezekiel) is the Holy Father addressed by Peter. • Ezekiel highlights what happens when holiness is neglected—defilement, judgment, exile. • Peter highlights what happens when holiness is embraced—obedient children, lives that honor God, witness to the nations (1 Peter 2:11–12). • Both passages frame holiness as more than ritual; it encompasses “ways and deeds” (Ezekiel 36:17) and “conduct” (1 Peter 1:15). • God’s name and reputation are central: Israel profaned it; believers are called to display it. Practical Implications for Us Today • Examine “ways and deeds”—holiness starts with everyday choices. • Understand sin’s ripple effect: it defiles environments, testimonies, and communities. • Pursue holiness not to earn God’s favor but to reflect His nature already imparted to us (2 Peter 1:3–4). • Rely on the promised Spirit (Ezekiel 36:26–27) who empowers the obedience Peter commands. • Guard God’s reputation among unbelievers, living so “they may see your honorable deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). Supporting Scriptures • Leviticus 11:44–45 — God’s foundational call to holiness. • Hebrews 12:14 — “Pursue… holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” • 2 Corinthians 7:1 — “Let us cleanse ourselves… perfecting holiness.” • Ephesians 1:4 — Chosen “to be holy and blameless in His presence.” |
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