Holiness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the nature and character of God and His expectations for His people. In the context of God's presence, holiness signifies the absolute purity, moral perfection, and separateness of God from sin and impurity. The concept of holiness is foundational to understanding the relationship between God and humanity, as well as the requirements for those who seek to draw near to Him.

The Holiness of God

The Bible consistently affirms the holiness of God, emphasizing His unique and exalted nature. In Isaiah 6:3, the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory." This threefold repetition underscores the supreme holiness of God, setting Him apart from all creation. God's holiness is intrinsic to His being, as seen in Leviticus 11:44, where He declares, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, because I am holy."

Holiness and the Tabernacle/Temple

The presence of God among His people was most vividly represented in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. These sacred spaces were designed to reflect God's holiness and required strict adherence to purity laws. Exodus 25:8-9 describes God's command to the Israelites to build a sanctuary so that He might dwell among them, with specific instructions to ensure it was a holy place. The Holy of Holies, the innermost part of the Tabernacle and Temple, was where God's presence was most concentrated, and only the high priest could enter, and only once a year, on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34).

Holiness and the Law

The Law given to Israel was a means by which the people could maintain holiness and thus remain in God's presence. The commandments and ordinances were designed to set Israel apart as a holy nation (Exodus 19:6). The sacrificial system, detailed in Leviticus, provided a way for atonement and purification, allowing the people to approach God despite their sinfulness.

Holiness and Jesus Christ

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the holiness of God. He is described as "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens" (Hebrews 7:26). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus provides the ultimate means for humanity to be reconciled to a holy God. His sacrifice on the cross fulfills the requirements of the Law and offers believers the righteousness necessary to stand in God's presence (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Holiness and the Believer

Believers are called to live holy lives as a reflection of God's holiness. 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 involves a transformation of character and conduct, enabled by the Holy Spirit. Romans 12:1-2 urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds.

Holiness and the Church

The Church, as the body of Christ, is called to be a holy community. Ephesians 5:25-27 describes Christ's love for the Church, "to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless." The Church is to reflect God's holiness in its worship, fellowship, and mission, serving as a witness to the world of God's holy nature.

Holiness and Eternal Presence

The ultimate fulfillment of holiness in God's presence is found in the eschatological hope of believers. Revelation 21:3-4 describes the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more sin, death, or suffering. In this eternal state, the holiness of God will be fully realized, and His people will enjoy perfect communion with Him forever.