Many may not know the answer to this question. Does being holy actually matter? Surprisingly enough, you may hear that it doesn’t matter because the Christian is forgiven of his sin. In the lives and hearts of countless individuals, you will find a willingness to accept the forgiveness of God but a shunning of what God calls the Christian toward. It is easy to say, “I have faith,” and thus embrace the forgiveness of God. But the challenges arise when the light of God’s Word shines into the dark recesses of the heart and exposes the sin that dwells within.
God desires holiness in the life of His children. Scripture says, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Heb. 12:14). Here the author of Hebrews states in simple terms that if holiness is not a mark of someone’s life, he will not see the Lord. It is important to remember that in the Bible, no Scripture stands alone as an isolated doctrine. Rather, Scripture interprets Scripture. Therefore, while holiness must be present in the life of a believer, it is also true that what is ultimately at stake is not perfection but direction.
What’s meant by “holy” in 1 Peter 1:15-16? The word translated “holy” means sacred, morally blameless, consecrated, saint (see Strong’s G40 for more). God is looking for some people who are consecrated or set apart for His use. And He knows who those holy ones should be because He chose us (Ephesians 1:4) and called us to be holy for His purpose (2 Timothy 1:9).
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.” (Ephesians 1:4).
“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” (2 Timothy 1:9).
The King James Version of 1 Peter 1:15 uses the word “conversation.” The word translated “conversation” means behavior. The verse is saying our manner of life or behavior, should reflect holiness because God is holy.
Christians should stick out and stand out. Our lifestyles should be distinguishable from unbelievers and match our profession of faith. But it’s not easy, is it? In a day and age in which any and everything goes, Christians are constantly facing temptations to live in a manner which isn’t pleasing to God. Although ungodly living is encouraged, embraced, and expected in the world today, God’s Word stands as a beacon of hope, life, and instruction to Christians the world over.
