Topical Encyclopedia Holiness, a fundamental attribute of God, is a central theme throughout the Bible, calling believers to a life set apart from sin and dedicated to God. The concept of holiness encompasses purity, moral integrity, and a distinct separation from the profane or wicked. This separation is not merely physical but spiritual and ethical, reflecting a life aligned with God's will and character.Biblical Foundation of Holiness The call to holiness is rooted in the nature of God Himself. Leviticus 19:2 declares, "Speak to the entire congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’" This command establishes holiness as an imitation of God's own nature, setting a standard for His people to follow. In the New Testament, the call to holiness is reiterated. 1 Peter 1:15-16 states, "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 passage underscores the continuity of the call to holiness from the Old Testament to the New Testament, emphasizing its importance for believers. Holiness and Separation from the Wicked The pursuit of holiness inherently involves a separation from wickedness and sin. This separation is not an isolation from the world but a distinctiveness in conduct and values. 2 Corinthians 6:17 instructs, "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you." This verse highlights the necessity of distancing oneself from practices and influences that are contrary to God's holiness. The separation is further illustrated in Psalm 1:1 , which states, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers." Here, the psalmist describes the blessedness of avoiding the influence and companionship of the wicked, suggesting that true holiness involves a conscious choice to reject sinful associations. Practical Implications of Holiness Holiness manifests in the believer's life through a commitment to righteousness and a rejection of sin. Romans 12:2 exhorts, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation involves a deliberate departure from worldly patterns and a renewal that aligns with God's will. Moreover, holiness is not merely an individual pursuit but a communal one. The church, as the body of Christ, is called to be a holy community. Ephesians 5:25-27 describes Christ's purpose 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." Challenges and Encouragements While the call to holiness and separation from the wicked is clear, believers often face challenges in living out this calling. The world presents numerous temptations and pressures to conform. However, Scripture provides encouragement and assurance. 1 Thessalonians 4:7 reminds believers, "For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness." This calling is accompanied by the promise of God's presence and empowerment through the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to live holy lives. In summary, holiness is a divine mandate that requires believers to separate themselves from wickedness and align their lives with God's holy character. This separation is both a personal and communal endeavor, reflecting the transformative power of God's grace in the life of the believer. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 16:21,26Separate yourselves from among this congregation, that I may consume them in a moment. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 6:17,18 Library Letter ix. Meditation. Note C. The Holiness of God. The Relation of the Will of God to Sanctification The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... The Structure of the Lord's Prayer Our Lord's Prayer for his People's Sanctification The Last Interview of Paul with the Elders of Ephesus. Letter cxlv. (AD 412 or 413. ) False Teachings of the Apostasy. The Covenant Promise of the Spirit Resources Summary of the Book of Leviticus - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Nazarene Church, and what do Nazarenes believe? | GotQuestions.org How should a believer respond to the characteristics of God? | GotQuestions.org Holiness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Holiness is the Result of God's Keeping Holiness is the Result of Subjection to God Holiness is the Result of The Manifestation of God's Grace Holiness is the Result of Union With Christ Holiness: Becoming to the Church Holiness: Behaviour of Aged Women should be As Becomes Holiness: Chastisements are Intended to Produce, in Saints Holiness: Christ: An Example of Holiness: Christ: Desires for his People Holiness: Christ: Effects, in his People Holiness: General Scriptures Concerning Holiness: Ministers should Avoid Everything Inconsistent With Holiness: Ministers should be Examples of Holiness: Ministers should Exhort To Holiness: Ministers should Possess Holiness: Motives to The Dissolution of all Things Holiness: Motives to The Glory of God Holiness: Motives to The Love of Christ Holiness: Motives to The Mercies of God Holiness: Necessary to God's Worship Holiness: None Shall See God Without Holiness: Promise to Women Who Continue In Holiness: Promised to the Church Holiness: Saints: Have Their Fruit To Holiness: Saints: New Created In Holiness: Saints: Shall be Presented to God In Holiness: Saints: Shall Continue In, for Ever Holiness: Saints: should Continue In Holiness: Saints: should Follow After Holiness: Saints: should Have Their Conversation In Holiness: Saints: should Present Their Bodies to God In Holiness: Saints: should Seek Perfection In Holiness: Saints: should Serve God In Holiness: Saints: should Yield Their Members As Instruments of Holiness: should Lead to Separation from the Wicked Holiness: The Character of Christ, the Standard of Holiness: The Character of God, the Standard of Holiness: The Church is the Beauty of Holiness: The Gospel the Way of Holiness: The Wicked are Without Holiness: The Word of God the Means of Producing The Holiness of God is Incomparable The Holiness of God is Pledged for the Fulfilment of His Judgments The Holiness of God is Pledged for the Fulfilment of His Promises The Holiness of God: Exhibited in His: Character The Holiness of God: Exhibited in His: Kingdom The Holiness of God: Exhibited in His: Name The Holiness of God: Exhibited in His: Words The Holiness of God: Exhibited in His: Works The Holiness of God: Heavenly Hosts Adore The Holiness of God: Requires Holy Service The Holiness of God: Saints are Commanded to Imitate The Holiness of God: Saints should Praise The Holiness of God: should be Magnified The Holiness of God: should Produce Reverential Fear Related Terms Sanctification (13 Occurrences) Notwithstanding (37 Occurrences) |
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