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Read Isaiah 6/1-8.
Isaiah was confronted with and overwhelmed by a vision of God’s holiness. Had not God dealt with Isaiah’s sin, it is doubtful that the prophet would have survived that encounter. Just what is this quality or attribute we call “holiness”?
[1] “HOLY” – WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
In the Old Testament the word means ‘separation’ or ‘cutting off’. It came to mean separation for divine use. It is used of people (priests), places (burning bush Exodus 3) the Temple, special days (Sabbath)
In New Testament it means separated from evil/sin unto truth & righteousness
Other words are ‘sanctified’, ‘consecrated’ – reserved for unique and special use or purpose
To be holy is to be separated, different. How is this ‘holiness’ seen in the life of Jesus?
What is the difference between being ‘separated’ and being ‘isolated’?
[2] “GOD IS HOLY” – WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Concerning God, holiness is eternal, settled perfect state of moral excellence. It speaks of the “otherness” of God. Holiness is the ‘umbrella attribute’ of God in conditioning His love, mercy, justice, compassion etc. His holiness directly effects His dealings with the human race. Reflect again on Jesus and how He lived a holy life. Does the life of Jesus challenge your understanding of holiness? Read Luke 15/1,2. Jesus’ opponents criticised his ‘unholy’ lifestyle. Read Matthew 9/9-13
[3] ‘YOU ARE HOLY” – WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Concerning humanity, holiness is a process leading towards moral excellence. The Bible expresses repeated calls that we be a “holy people”. Check the following verses – Romans 12/1; Hebrews 12/10,14; 1Peter1/15,16; 1 Peter 2/9 2 Peter 3/11,12a. In the New Testament, Christians are often designated ‘saints’ – not used of super people or elite. Biblical holiness is a long way from self-righteousness or ‘holier-than-thou.
Holiness – wholeness of God changing us into His likeness – re-made into the image of God
