What does it mean to be holy?
Holy doesn't mean perfect or weird. Discover what being set apart for God really looks like.
20 Bible studies address this question
What the Bible Says
These Bible studies explore Scripture passages that speak to this question. Each study will give you insight and practical application.
Be Holy Because I Am Holy
Leviticus 19 is often called the "heart of Leviticus," containing wide-ranging ethical commands touching every aspect of life. The repeated refrain "I am the LORD" grounds all behavior in God's charac...
The Consecration of the Priests
God provides detailed instructions for the ordination of Aaron and his sons. This elaborate seven-day ceremony would set them apart for sacred service through washing, clothing, anointing, and sacrifi...
The Ordination of Aaron and His Sons
Leviticus 8 records the solemn ordination ceremony of Aaron and his sons as priests. Through washing, clothing, anointing, and sacrifice, God consecrated His servants for sacred ministry—a process t...
The Death of Nadab and Abihu
Leviticus 10 presents a sobering contrast to chapter 9's triumph. Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu offered unauthorized fire before the LORD and were consumed by divine fire. This tragic chapter emphasize...
Punishments for Sin
Leviticus 20 specifies penalties for violations of the laws in chapters 18-19, particularly regarding Molek worship and sexual sins. The severe punishments reflect how seriously God views these violat...
The Nazirite Vow and the Priestly Blessing
Numbers 6 presents two significant topics: the Nazirite vow of special consecration and the famous Aaronic blessing. The chapter shows how individuals could dedicate themselves to God and how God spok...
A Holy People Set Apart
Deuteronomy 7 commands complete separation from Canaanite nations, explains why Israel must destroy idolatrous peoples, and assures them of God's faithful love and power to drive out enemies.
Who May Dwell in God's Presence?
David asks who may dwell with God and answers with a profile of integrity—speaking truth, avoiding slander, honoring the faithful, and keeping promises even when costly.
The Lord Reigns, Let the Nations Tremble
Celebrating God as holy King enthroned between the cherubim. The refrain "He is holy" punctuates praise for a God who is both exalted in justice and forgiving in mercy.
Put On the New Self
Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above. Put to death earthly vices and put on compassion, kindness, and above all, love. Let Christ's peace rule.
At Mount Sinai
Exodus 19 brings Israel to Mount Sinai where God proposes a covenant, the people prepare to meet Him, and the mountain shakes with divine presence—setting the stage for the giving of the Law.
The Burnt Offering
Leviticus opens with detailed instructions for the burnt offering, a sacrifice of complete dedication to God. This chapter reveals the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, and the path to communio...
Purity in the Camp
Numbers 5 addresses maintaining purity in Israel's camp through three regulations: removing the unclean, requiring restitution for wrongs, and testing suspected unfaithfulness. God's presence in the c...
I Will Walk in My House with a Blameless Heart
David's personal commitment to integrity in leadership. This psalm outlines standards for his household, his associates, and his kingdom—a royal ethic of faithfulness and justice.
Walking in Light and Love
Paul calls believers to imitate God as beloved children, walking in love and light while avoiding the darkness of immorality, and gives instructions for Spirit-filled relationships.
A Living Hope
Peter writes to scattered believers about their living hope through Christ's resurrection, the tested genuineness of their faith, and their call to holy living as redeemed people purchased by Christ's...
Making Your Calling Sure
Peter's second letter opens by reminding believers of the divine power that has given them everything needed for godly living. He urges them to add virtue to faith progressively and confirms that apos...
The Priestly Garments
God gives detailed instructions for the sacred garments of Aaron and his sons. These beautiful vestments would mark the priests as set apart for holy service and would carry deep symbolic meaning.
The Day of the Lord
Peter addresses scoffers who mock Christ's return, explaining that God's patience allows time for repentance. The day of the Lord will come suddenly, bringing cosmic transformation. Believers should l...
The Altar of Incense and Other Instructions
God provides instructions for the altar of incense, the bronze basin, the anointing oil, and the incense. These final elements of tabernacle worship reveal the beauty and fragrance of approaching God.
Still Have Questions?
The Bible has answers for every aspect of life. Keep exploring, or reach out to our pastoral team for personal guidance.