1 Peter 1:16-17
since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile,
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This verse isn't just a call to be good; it's an echo of God's very nature. The startling point is that our holiness isn't an arbitrary rule, but a reflection of the One we're meant to be like. It means our character should mirror His, a truly awesome and challenging thought!
Peter is reminding believers that their calling isn't just about escaping judgment, but about actively living a life set apart, mirroring God's own perfect holiness. This call to holiness is the foundation for the practical advice he's about to give them on how to live faithfully amidst suffering and persecution in the world.
Why does God command us to be holy? It's not an arbitrary rule. This verse connects our calling directly to His very nature.
God's Character as the Standard
The command to 'be holy' isn't just about following a set of rules. Peter is drawing from the Old Testament, specifically Leviticus 11:44-45 and 19:2, where God Himself declares His holiness and then calls His people to be like Him.
It's About Relationship
Holiness, in this context, means to be set apart, distinct, and pure – reflecting the character of God. It's His unchanging, perfect nature that serves as the ultimate model. Because God is holy, His people are called to be holy, not to earn His favor, but because they belong to Him.
In a world that often blurs the lines, what does it truly mean to be 'set apart' for God?
Living Differently on Purpose
The word for 'holy' carries the idea of separation. For ancient Israel, it meant being distinct from the surrounding nations in their practices and worship. For us, as followers of Christ, it means being distinct from the world's values and behaviors because we belong to a different kingdom.
Reflecting God's Kingdom
This isn't about self-righteousness or looking down on others. It's about allowing God's character to transform us from the inside out, making our lives a visible testimony to His presence and His ways. When we live holy lives, we are, in essence, living out the reality of God's reign in our midst.
Understand the original words
hagios · Greek Adjective
The state of being set apart for God, characterized by moral purity and dedication to His purposes. It reflects God's own character and is the standard for His people.
aprosōpolēmptōs · Greek Adverb
Refers to the objective and just evaluation of human actions by God, devoid of bias, favoritism, or personal preference. God’s judgment is based strictly on truth and the standard of His holiness.
phobos · Greek Noun
A reverent awe or profound respect for God that shapes one’s lifestyle. It is a holy caution motivated by the realization of God’s sovereignty, holiness, and role as Judge.
paroikia · Greek Noun
The state of living away from one's true home; in Christian theology, it refers to the believer’s status as a temporary resident on earth whose true citizenship is in heaven.
This is the direct Old Testament source passage quoted by Peter, showing the ancient command for God's people to be set apart because God Himself is set apart.
Matthew 5:48Jesus echoes this command in the Sermon on the Mount, linking holiness to God's perfect nature and challenging His followers to live at a higher standard.
1 Thessalonians 4:7Paul emphasizes that God has called us not for impurity but for holiness, reinforcing the idea that God's call is to a life that reflects His own set-apart character.
Hebrews 12:14This passage urges believers to pursue peace with everyone and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord, highlighting that holiness is essential for a relationship with God.
This verse isn't just a call to be good; it's an echo of God's very nature. The startling point is that our holiness isn't an arbitrary rule, but a reflection of the One we're meant to be like. It means our character should mirror His, a truly awesome and challenging thought!
Peter is reminding believers that their calling isn't just about escaping judgment, but about actively living a life set apart, mirroring God's own perfect holiness. This call to holiness is the foundation for the practical advice he's about to give them on how to live faithfully amidst suffering and persecution in the world.
Peter is reminding believers that their calling isn't just about escaping judgment, but about actively living a life set apart, mirroring God's own perfect holiness. This call to holiness is the foundation for the practical advice he's about to give them on how to live faithfully amidst suffering and persecution in the world.
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"since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile," — This verse isn't just a call to be good; it's an echo of God's very nature. The startling point is that our holiness isn't an arbitrary rule, but a reflection of the One we're meant to be like. It me…
