Defined as the state of being holy—pure, separate, set apart, holiness is a theme that finds its way into multiple narratives within the Bible. Holiness deals with the inherent purity and goodness that come from leading a life devoted to the teachings of God. It is not merely restricted to an individual’s character but extends to their actions, influencing them to live in a way that is pleasing in the eyes of God.
What the Bible Says About Personal Holiness
The Bible reminds us that holiness is essential on an individual level, highly encouraging each believer to pursue a holy life. This does not suggest a life devoid of mistakes, but a continual effort towards righteousness. Believers are prompted to seek purity in their thoughts, actions, and words, reflecting their spiritual rebirth and commitment towards God. While it is an ambitious pursuit, it is deemed necessary for deepening one’s personal relationship with God.
Why Holiness is Key to a Relationship with God
Holiness is emphasized because it advances our relationship with God. The Bible affirms that God is holy—pure, blameless, and separate from sin. As believers, striving for holiness means striving to imitate God’s nature, drawing us closer to Him. This pursuit of holiness lets us understand God’s character more deeply and cements our relationship with Him. By earnestly desiring and pursuing holiness, we allow God’s standards to guide us and shape our behavior, expressing our love and reverence for Him.
Who is Called to Holiness?
Holiness is a call given to all who have placed their faith in God. Accepting God’s salvation initiates a life-long journey of becoming more like Him in our character, a process the Bible refers to as sanctification. Regardless of where one may stand in their spiritual journey—whether they are new believers, seasoned leaders, or somewhere in between—everyone is persuaded to aim for this standard of holiness. It is an invitation extended to every believer without distinction.
How to Live Out God’s Call to Holiness
How can one cultivate and practice holiness? The Bible enumerates various ways. Setting our hearts and minds on things above and not on earthly things is one strategy mentioned. It also champions the idea of spiritual renewal to transform the mind, thereby altering one’s actions. Forgiving as we have been forgiven, extending love to others, and exercising patience and kindness are other emphases. Holiness is not a single act but a lifestyle that believers must continually develop, weaving it into their everyday lives.
What is the Benefit of a Life Pursuing Holiness?
The pursuit of holiness, while difficult, is accompanied by numerous rewards. Bible talks of the peace and joy that come from living in accordance to God’s will. This pursuit deepens our understanding of God and His will for our lives. A tangible life change that brings positive impact to our personal life and our relationships with others. There is also a significant focus on the eternal rewards – achieving holiness in this life gains us an eternal life with God. Indeed, living a Holy life is an opportunity to reflect God’s love and light to those around us.
Where Does the Strength to Pursue Holiness Come From?
Holiness is a conscious pursuit that necessitates unwavering commitment. But where does the strength to pursue such a challenging path come from? The Bible provides assurance, reminding believers that their strength to live holy lives comes from God Himself. Even as we struggle with our human imperfections, His grace fuels our journey towards holiness. Through His Spirit, God empowers us to overcome our weaknesses, continually guiding us to live in a way that honors Him.
Below is our full list of bible verses on holiness (King James Version – KJV) provided in ranked order.
Most Popular Bible Verses About Holiness
Hebrews 12:14
“14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:”
Related Themes: Bitterness Telling The Truth Peace Arguing
2 Corinthians 7:1
“1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”
Related Themes: Impurity Reverence Repentance Discernment
1 Peter 2:9
“9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:”
Related Themes: Light Identity Self-Esteem Purpose
1 Peter 1:15-16
“15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
Related Themes: Lust Life Glorification
1 Samuel 2:2
“2 There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.”
Related Themes: Omnipotence Worship Foundation
Romans 12:1
“1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”
1 Thessalonians 4:7
“7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.”
Leviticus 19:2
“2 Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.”
Romans 6:22
“22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.”
Related Themes: Freedom Omnipotence Fruit
Isaiah 35:8
“8 And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.”
Isaiah 57:15
“15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”
Related Themes: Humility Omnipotence Omnipresence Revival
Matthew 5:48
“48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
Related Themes: Morality Morals Perfection Sin
Leviticus 20:26
“26 And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine.”
1 Peter 1:14-16
“14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
Related Themes: Lust Obedience Reputation Lust
1 Peter 1:16
“16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
Ephesians 5:3
“3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;”
Isaiah 6:3
“3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.”
Related Themes: Omnipotence
Ezekiel 38:23
“23 Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD.”
Psalm 96:9
“9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.”
Exodus 15:11
“11 Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?”
Related Themes: Omnipotence
Ephesians 1:4
“4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:”
Related Themes: Sovereignty Self Respect Foundation Glorification
2 Timothy 1:9
“9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,”
Related Themes: Grace Glorification Foundation Voting
Romans 12:1-2
“1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
Psalm 119:9
“9 BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.”
Ezekiel 36:23
“23 And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.”
Philippians 2:5
“5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:”
Amos 5:14
“14 Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken.”
Psalm 139:23-24
“23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Related Themes: Health Heart Transformation Self Examination
John 17:17
“17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
Related Themes: Telling The Truth Truth Glorification Discernment
Romans 6:19
“19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.”
Related Themes: Lust Impurity Consecration
