What is a Saint in the Bible?

The term "saint" is widely recognized in Christian tradition, often associated with holiness and reverence. However, its biblical meaning goes beyond the current use, encompassing various aspects of faith, community, and divine calling. Understanding what a saint is according to the Bible provides deeper insight into the identity of believers and the call to live a life set apart for God. This blog post delves into the biblical definition of a saint, the significance of sainthood in both the Old and New Testaments, and its implications for contemporary believers.

The Biblical Definition of a Saint

The word "saint" derives from the Latin term "sanctus," meaning "holy." In the Bible, the term "saint" (or “saints” in plural) is used to refer to those who are set apart for God and have a dedicated relationship with Him. The New Testament writers frequently employ the term to describe believers—those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. In passages such as Ephesians 1:1, Paul addresses his letter “to the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus.” Here, "saints" designates the members of the church, emphasizing their belonging to the body of Christ and their active faith.

The Old Testament also presents the concept of holiness in relation to God’s people. For instance, in Exodus 19:6, God tells the Israelites, “You shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” This call to holiness defines their identity as a people set apart for God’s purpose. Throughout scripture, holiness signifies both identity and lifestyle, marking saints as those committed to living under God's sovereignty.

Saints in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, the term "saint" is not explicitly used as it is in the New Testament; however, the foundational concepts of holiness and being set apart pervade the narrative. Key figures such as Moses, David, and the prophets exemplified lives dedicated to God, often regarded as saints due to their faithful service and covenant relationship. Their roles were characterized by obedience, righteousness, and a commitment to God’s commands, reflecting the ideal of holiness that God desired from His people.

Moreover, the nation of Israel is often viewed as a collective saintly entity called to represent God's holiness in the world. Their observance of the law and participation in rituals indicated their commitment to living in accordance with God’s will, establishing a relationship wherein they were seen as His chosen people. The psalms frequently celebrate the righteousness of the saints, highlighting their reliance on God and their pursuit of justice.

Saints in the New Testament

In contrast to the Old Testament, where holiness was closely tied to a nation and its leaders, the New Testament expands the definition of what it means to be a saint. With the advent of Christ, sainthood is no longer confined to a select group but embraces all who believe in Him—Jew and Gentile alike. This radical shift is particularly emphasized in Paul’s letters, where he articulates the concept of the church as the body of Christ, in which every believer has a significant role.

The concept of sainthood is intertwined with the notion of justification and sanctification in the New Testament. Through faith in Christ, believers are declared righteous before God, as expressed in Romans 5:1: “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This justification marks the beginning of a new identity as saints—a role characterized by a call to live according to the Spirit rather than the flesh (Romans 8:1-2).

Additionally, the teachings of Jesus emphasize the moral and ethical dimensions of being a saint. In the Beatitudes, for example, Christ outlines qualities such as humility, mercy, and purity of heart, which embody the character of a saint. These virtues reflect the transformative work of the Holy Spirit within believers, empowering them to live lives that honor God and serve others.

The Significance of Saints in the Church

The role of saints within the broader Christian community is both vital and multifaceted. Saints are not only called to personal holiness but are also instruments through which God works to bless others. The body of Christ—as described in 1 Corinthians 12—consists of many members, each with unique gifts and functions, all contributing to the church’s mission. This community aspect underscores that sainthood is not an individualistic pursuit but a collective calling.

Moreover, saints serve as examples of faith and perseverance. The hall of faith in Hebrews 11 recounts the stories of various saints who exemplified steadfastness in pursuing God’s promises despite adversity. These testimonies encourage contemporary believers to remain faithful in their journey, recognizing that they stand in a long line of individuals who have committed their lives to God’s purpose.

The idea of communion of saints—a theological concept within Christian tradition—further extends this significance. It suggests that believers, both living and deceased, are part of a spiritual family united in Christ. This communion fosters a sense of belonging and continuity among believers, encouraging them to support one another through prayer and fellowship.

Sainthood and Responsibility

While sainthood in the Bible confers grace and identity, it also carries a profound responsibility. Believers are called to reflect Christ’s love and holiness in their daily lives, serving God and others with humility and dedication. Ephesians 2:10 states, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” This verse indicates that being a saint entails active participation in doing good works, showcasing the transformative power of faith.

Additionally, the call to sainthood involves embracing a lifestyle of worship, obedience, and witness. Saints are called to be lights in a dark world, sharing the message of the gospel and representing Christ in their communities. This calling demands a commitment to moral integrity, compassion, and justice, as believers seek to embody the love of God in every aspect of their lives.

Conclusion

As believers today, embracing the identity of a saint serves as a reminder of the call to live a life that honors God, reflects His love, and serves others. The journey of faith is not a solitary endeavor but rather a shared experience within the body of Christ, where every believer is invited to contribute their unique gifts for the glory of God. Ultimately, realizing the significance of being a saint encourages individuals to step into their divine calling, living lives of purpose, faith, and committed service to God and neighbor alike.