King James Version
What Does 1 Peter 1:16 Mean?
“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
Context
14
As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
15
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
16
Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
17
And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:
18
Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Be ye holy; for I am holy.**—The better reading here is, *Ye shall he holy;* it is still, however, a command, not a promise—except that all God’s commands are promises. The command comes some five or six times in the Book of Leviticus, addressed not only to the Levites, but to all the people. It would, therefore, apply twice over to the recipients of this letter by virtue of their twofold consecration, in the old and in the new Israel.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Peter. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Peter 1:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Peter 1:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge