I am not Holiness… I am a Christian.
What Does It Really Mean to Be Holiness?
Some may be offended by this post—but truth must be spoken in love. So what is true Holiness?
When many people say, “I’m Holiness,” they often mean it in terms of how they dress. But is that what holiness is truly about?
Yes, there are a handful of New Testament verses that touch on modesty and appearance. But if you study Scripture in its full context, you’ll find far more verses that address the character of the believer and the posture of the heart.
If you’re going to quote the Law of Moses to define holiness, then as Paul warns in Galatians 5:1–5, you must apply every single aspect of the law—something no one but Christ has ever fulfilled.
Even the verses most commonly used to support appearance-based holiness actually point more to inner transformation than to outward form—if you study them honestly and in context.
Self-Righteousness Is Not True Holiness
Too often, those who emphasize outward appearance come across as self-righteous:
- “I’m glad MY pastor is STILL Holiness!”
- “I’m GLAD I’M STILL Holiness!”
These attitudes bring to mind Luke 18:9–14, where Jesus rebukes the self-righteous Pharisee who praised himself in prayer. Holiness isn’t about exalting ourselves—it’s about humbling ourselves before a holy God.
The Heart of Holiness Is Christlikeness
Many who focus on the appearance of holiness also tend to neglect Scriptures that deal with our behavior, attitudes, and treatment of others:
- Ephesians 4:31–32: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage… Be kind and compassionate.”
- Philippians 2:3–4: “In humility value others above yourselves.”
- James 2:1–9: “Show no favoritism.”
When we let man’s standards define holiness, we will always fall short. True holiness isn’t achieved by what we do—it’s the result of what Christ has done.
True Holiness Starts in the Heart
Does that mean we can live in sin? Absolutely not! Romans 6:2 says, “God forbid.”
When we are transformed by the renewing of our minds, we won’t just conform to outward standards. Our hearts will change, and that change will reflect on the outside. We will:
- Dress modestly—guided by the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
- Avoid drawing attention to ourselves—whether in flashy attire or prideful posts.
- Reflect Christ in both appearance and action.
Holiness Affects Every Area of Life
If we are truly striving for holiness, then the holiness of God will shine through us in every area:
- Our words will build up, not tear down.
- We will walk in love, humility, and grace.
- We will avoid gossip, backbiting, and all ungodly behavior.
Final Thoughts
Holiness is not a dress code. It’s a lifestyle of surrender to Christ. It starts in the heart and flows into every area of life. May we never settle for outward conformity while neglecting inner transformation.
Let the holiness of God be seen in how we live, speak, love, and serve—every single day.
👉 More devotionals from Pastor Nathan – Gruetli Church of God
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