As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 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.” (NIV) 1 Peter 1:14-16
1 Peter was written to encourage Christians. In typical Peter fashion, he is clear and specific with his instructions to his readers. Ok, are you ready for this? He writes, “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.” (1 Peter 1:15-16). Wow! “In all you do”. . .not most of the time. . .not just when others are watching. . .not just in church. . .in all things, at all times!
God is first described as the One who “called” you. It is the One who chose you before the foundations of the earth who is described as “holy”. Those called to be God’s children are to be like him! The basic idea of holiness in the Bible is that of separation from all that is profane. Holiness embraces purity and moral integrity. For a Christian the essence of holiness is a dynamic expression of divine being lived out within the normal processes of daily life. It is as God’s obedient children, living by his will, that we fulfill the call to holiness.
What comes to your mind when you think about holiness? How would you define holiness? Or what does holiness look like in a Christian? Do you know anyone who strives to live a holy life. . . and does a good job at it? Share some of your thoughts with us.
