“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”” 1 Peter 1:15-16
“But” is a term to indicate that the way we are to be (i.e., holy) is completely different than the way we used to be.
“Called” means God calls us by the Gospel to saving faith and a living hope.
“Be holy” is a term that means set apart from the world, following God’s perfect standards.
“For it is written” means the coming of Christ did not lower or change God’s expectations of His people. During OT times, they were to be holy; during NT times, they were to be holy; and today, we also are to be holy.
“Be holy, because I am holy” … though we remain sinners, we are simultaneously saints, justified by Christ. God now empowers us to strive against the world and the devil.
Even before creation, God knew that mankind would fall into sin, reject His ways, live only for themselves, and lead lives that result in death and separation from Him. In His love, before the world was made, He determined to send His Son to be our sacrifice. Now through His Word, He calls us to life and sets us apart to His glory and for the service of our neighbor.
God’s blessings on your day…