Holiness

 •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 7
This word is the same as sanctification. The word “saints” is literally “holy ones.” This word is used in two ways; of our standing, and of our state. Thus at the beginning of each epistle believers are addressed, (lit.) as “holy ones by calling.” This is their standing before God, even when their state was bad, as at Corinth. The word is also used of practical holiness (which is akin to purity), in Rom. 6:2222But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (Romans 6:22); Heb. 12:1414Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: (Hebrews 12:14); 1 Peter 1:1515But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; (1 Peter 1:15), &c, Holiness is perfected (after having separated from all outward evil), by cleansing ourselves from all evil of the flesh and spirit. (2 Cor. 7:11Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 7:1).)