Read I Peter 1:13-25.
In all of their travels through the wilderness, the community of Israel found almost every opportunity to grumble and complain about their situation. We have talked about this many times in these articles. However, at each point, Yahweh God remained holy in all of His interactions with His people. What do we mean when we say that God is holy? God is set apart, perfect, and like no other in His creation. Because God is holy, He calls His people to be holy as well.
Peter was writing to a group of churches and believers who were facing the threat of persecution. In the face of this, the natural response may have been to complain. But, Peter told them not to conform to their previous way of living. They were to be holy. They were to “live as strangers” where they were. There is a temptation to bend to the temporary whims of the culture or “to go along just to get along.” Jesus Christ redeemed them, and us, through His sacrifice on the cross. His once-and-for-all sacrifice can allow us all to enter into a right relationship with God if we will repent of our sins and trust in Him.
Living a holy life because of our redemption by Christ has implications and consequences for the way we interact with others, especially other believers, as well. Because we have been born again, we can love others with brotherly love in obedience to the word of God.
God’s people, Israel, took just about every opportunity to grumble and complain throughout their journey after leaving Egypt. But, God demonstrated His holiness and love for them. He still calls for His people to live as holy people in response to what He has done for us through Jesus Christ. How can your actions today reflect living as a holy person?
Mark Riser - Apologist 