But according to the One who called you is holy, also holy ones you all become in all conduct, because it is written, “Holy ones you all become, because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:15–16.
“Holy” means to be set apart. The Christian is set apart unto God in Christ. It is the same word used for saints (Romans 1:7). Those of the Church have a holy calling that is not according to works, but according to God’s own purpose and grace (2 Timothy 1:9). Christians make up a separate priesthood, according to the order of Melchizedek, and a holy race to God (1 Peter 2:5, 9).
We know what is coming and how God will melt the elements of this universe with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are done in it will be burned up (2 Peter 3:10). With this in mind, we should consider what manner of person we ought to be in our holy conduct and godliness (2 Peter 3:11).
God is holy. No other being is like Him (Isaiah 45:5). Each member of the Godhead is holy, for God has always existed in three distinct Persons (Isaiah 6:3). As One who is Holy, He is always true to Himself. We, as the holy ones belonging to God, should act in like manner. We have a unique, set-apart relationship with the Godhead. As Christians, we are part of a new creation in which Christ is the head and the Church is His body (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 1:22–23). The Holy Spirit indwells us (John 14:17; Romans 8:9), and we are the Holy of Holies (1 Corinthians 3:16). No other saints share in what the Church possesses.
Therefore, as holy, we are to put off the former conduct done in ignorance, gird up the sensitive workings of our minds and rest on the hope that will be brought to us at the coming of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:13). The one who has this hope purifies himself, for he is set apart unto God (1 John 3:3).
