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Divinity for Advanced Secondary Schools

a visible reminder that God’s presence New Testament, the notion of spiritual
among them demanded physical purity. holiness is further revealed through the
These chapters outline dietary laws, work of Jesus Christ. Through Christ’s
distinguishing between clean and sacrifice, believers are set apart and
unclean animals. These laws were not made holy, not by their efforts but by
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arbitrary but reflected God’s intention God’s grace (Heb. 10:10).
for his people to maintain physical
holiness. While these regulations may Having grasped the notion of holiness
seem perplexing to modern readers, they biblically, we can ask ourselves what
convey the importance of discernment causes someone to be unholy. Sin is the
and obedience in maintaining purity. primary factor that separates individuals
God’s instructions emphasised the from God’s holiness (Rom. 3:23).
need for separation from impurity, Therefore, understanding what makes
highlighting the significance of holiness one unholy helps us recognise the gravity
in both daily living and sacred practices. of sin and the need for repentance and
restoration. As we journey in faith, we
On the other hand, spiritual holiness goes may continuously seek holiness, both
beyond outward appearance. It involves in the physical and spiritual realms, as
the condition of the heart and the inner we endeavour to live by God’s divine
transformation of a person’s character. standards.
David, the psalmist, recognised that
true holiness begins with a pure heart in The concept of Holiness– Isaiah 6:1-13
saying, “Create in me a clean heart, O The concept of holiness is the focal
God, and renew a steadfast spirit within point in Isaiah’s prophetic vision. It
me” (Ps. 51:2). This heartfelt prayer contains the seed of the entire message
reveals that spiritual holiness involves of his book. The focus is God’s holiness
an inner change where one’s desires and his majesty. Isaiah speaks of the
and motivations align with God’s will. Holy One of Israel, and the nation must
Beholding holiness inspires awe and greatly depend on Him alone (Isa. 42:1).
reverence, leading us to worship the one The main task of the Prophet was to
true God. warn and foretell God’s judgment on all
the people of Israel. He shows how God
St. Paul reminds us that as we behold the loves forgiveness for those who turn to
glory of the Lord, we are transformed him. The whole book is full of promises
into his image from glory to glory (2 Cor. about the coming of Messiah and the
2:3-18). Remaining in holiness leads to future restoration of the Holy Nation of
worship and moulds us into people who God.
reflect God’s holiness in our lives. In the

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