So, just what is the definition of the word holy? A Greek-American bible scholar and author named Spiros Zodhiates (March 13, 1922–October 10, 2009). His description of the Greek word ‘hagios’, which is translated into English as ‘holy’, is this.
Hagios = (set apart ones, separated ones, sanctified ones, holy ones) is literally a holy one and properly means ‘different’, ‘set apart’, ‘distinct’, and ‘holy’. It describes one who is set apart for or by God and can be brought near or into God’s holy presence. “Its fundamental idea is separation, consecration, devotion to the service of Deity, sharing in God’s purity and abstaining from earth’s defilement.”
So depending on the context, hagios, or holy, refers to whoever or whatever is set apart (sanctified) for a special purpose. To be holy is to be set aside, by God, for a special purpose. We are to be different and distinct from those who are not holy.
Therefore, we can say a true Christian has been called out, sanctified, separated and made holy for God’s purpose.
I believe Christians must be seen to be living by their convictions; they must set an example to others by the way they live and interact with the world. Being holy is not all about how we dress, act, or the way we speak. It is not in isolating ourselves from the rest of the world. To be holy is all about our inward nature.
We need the same nature as God. God is a God of love. He wants us to display the same attributes He has. Consider the following passages of scripture in the book of Galatians. The fruit of the Spirit is the nature of God. This is how we are to live.
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Gal 5:23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Gal 5:24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Gal 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
Gal 5:26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
This is how those who have been sanctified should live. It is never said to be easy, but this is what we must strive for. If we stumble on the way we can be certain Jesus will help us up again.
To love our fellow man regardless of his nationality, religion, or colour is the greatest thing we can do. Read the following scriptures and understand the importance of love.
Rom 13:10 Love does no harm to a neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfilment of the law.
1Co 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
1Jn 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.
Jesus Christ laid down His own life for all mankind. In 1Jn 3:16 we see that we must also be prepared to do the same thing for others.