Sainthood

In His Name Devotionals
SAINTHOOD

“...to all the saints in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:1)

When the word “saint” is mentioned, what do you think of? Many people think of saints as men and women who are or were especially holy or who have been canonized by an official religious body. Usually only those who have been long dead and have extraordinary religious accomplishments to their credit qualify.

God, however, has a different perspective on sainthood. Paul called the Corinthian believers “saints” (1 Corinthians 1:2), then went on for many chapters correcting their sinful practices. He called the Roman, Ephesian, and Colossian believers “saints,” too, but they were not perfect either.

What, then, qualifies someone as a saint? Paul gives us the answer, “to all the saints in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:1). That is the criterion. Sainthood is not reserved for the spiritually elite. It belongs to every Christian because every believer is “in Christ Jesus.”

If you love Christ, and to the best of your ability seek to obey Him, you are a saint. That might come as a surprise to those who know you best, but it’s true nevertheless.

The hallmark of sainthood is holiness. In fact, the Greek word translated “saints” in Philippians 1:1 literally means “holy ones.” It is used throughout the New Testament to speak of anyone or anything that represents God’s holiness: Christ as the Holy One of God, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Father, Holy Scriptures, holy angels, holy brethren, and so on.

To God, you are “holy and beloved” in Christ (Colossians 3:12). You have received a saintly calling (1 Corinthians 1:2) and a saintly inheritance (Colossians 1:12). You have “redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14) and every other spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3).

With that privilege comes the responsibility of living a holy life. That is why Holy Scripture admonishes you to present your body as a living and holy sacrifice (Romans 12:1) and to live in a manner worthy of your saintly status (Ephesians 5:3).

The power for godly living is the Holy Spirit, who indwells you. As you yield to Him through prayer and as best you can, obedience to God’s Word, the characteristics of a true saint become increasingly evident in your life. Make that your commitment today.