The term "His Saints" refers to the people of God who are set apart for His purposes and are characterized by their faithfulness, righteousness, and devotion to Him. In the Bible, saints are often depicted as those who have been sanctified by God and are called to live holy lives in accordance with His will.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the concept of sainthood is closely tied to the idea of being chosen and set apart by God. The Hebrew word often translated as "saints" is "qadosh," meaning "holy" or "set apart." This term is used to describe the people of Israel, who were chosen by God to be a holy nation. For example, in Deuteronomy 33:3, it is written, "Surely it is You who love the people. All the holy ones are in Your hand, and at Your feet they all bow down, and from You receive instruction."

The saints in the Old Testament are those who follow God's commandments and live according to His covenant. They are often depicted as the faithful remnant who remain true to God despite the unfaithfulness of others. Psalm 30:4 exhorts, "Sing to the LORD, O you His saints, and praise His holy name."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the term "saints" is used to describe all believers in Christ. The Greek word "hagios" is used, which also means "holy" or "set apart." The Apostle Paul frequently addresses his letters to the saints in various cities, indicating that all Christians are considered saints by virtue of their faith in Jesus Christ. For instance, in Ephesians 1:1, Paul writes, "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus."

The New Testament emphasizes that sainthood is not based on personal merit but on the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ. Believers are sanctified by the Holy Spirit and called to live lives that reflect their holy status. In 1 Corinthians 1:2, Paul addresses "the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Characteristics of Saints

Saints are characterized by their devotion to God and their commitment to living according to His will. They are called to be holy, as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). This involves a life of obedience, love, and service. Saints are also called to be witnesses of Christ's love and truth in the world, as seen in Acts 9:13, where Ananias refers to the believers in Jerusalem as "Your saints."

The saints are also depicted as those who will inherit the kingdom of God. In Colossians 1:12, Paul encourages believers to "give thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light."

Role and Function

The saints have a vital role in the body of Christ, the Church. They are called to build one another up in faith, to serve one another in love, and to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Ephesians 4:12 speaks of the purpose of church leaders "to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ."

Saints are also called to intercede for others in prayer, as seen in Revelation 5:8, where the prayers of the saints are described as incense before God. They are to be examples of godly living, shining as lights in a dark world (Philippians 2:15).

Eschatological Hope

The saints have a future hope of eternal life with God. Revelation 14:12-13 highlights the perseverance and reward of the saints: "Here is a call for the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven telling me to write, 'Blessed are the dead—those who die in the Lord from this moment on.' 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'they will rest from their labors, for their deeds will follow them.'"

In summary, "His Saints" are those who are set apart by God, sanctified through faith in Christ, and called to live holy lives in service to Him. They are integral to the mission of the Church and hold the promise of eternal life with God.